BY JIMMY LAWTON
North Country This Week

CANTON – St. Lawrence County has sold 475 multi-use trail permits, which have generated more than $25,000 in revenue for the trail.

Legislator Tony Arquiett said he was pleased with the success of the program, which will help pay for trail maintenance and allow larger UTV’s to make use of the county’s trails.

The 126 miles of trail allows permit holders to travel across the county in a fashion Legislator Jim Reagen says not many other county offers.

He believes the trail system will bring tourists to the county and in turn provide a much needed shot in the arm to local communities along the trail.

Arquiett said he’s already seen the impact of the increased usage, offering a story about a recent fundraiser “feed” that was held and sold out within two hours.

The discussion came up as the county was set to pass a resolution for a grader that will be used to maintain the trail. While the exact cost of the equipment was not included, the county increased appropriations to the tune of $13,310 to facilitate the purpose.

Although the county will retain ownership of the grader and do the work, the St. Lawrence County Multi-Use Trail will be billed for the work.

Several legislators praised the early success of the permitting program. The county gave the green light on permits at a May 24 special meeting.

The money generated by the permits will be kept in a recreational trails fund established by the county Treasurer’s Office.

The idea behind the permitting process is to generate revenue to allow for trail growth and secure stronger easements for longevity.

Legislator Arquiett, who has taken lead on the issue, said fees are $65 for non-recreational club members, and $45 for members. For families with multiple machines at one-address additional fees would be $20 per additional machine.

Arquiett said he envisions all revenues to be returned to the trail. Permits may be purchased online at https://www.stlawco.org/multi-use-permit-application.