USDA supports trail grooming equipment

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Agriculture is supporting the investment of more than $245,000 to help in the purchase of snowmobile trail grooming equipment in Franklin and Somerset counties, according to U.S. Sens. Olympia J. Snowe and Susan M. Collins. “Snowmobiling is a popular, family oriented recreation in Maine, and, in these regions in particular, is an important part of the economy,” said Snowe and Collins in a joint statement. “We applaud the Department of Agriculture’s ongoing support of Maine’s rural communities, which both enhances recreational opportunities in Maine and promotes economic growth.”

Funding announced includes:

. $20,000 for the Madawaska Snowmobile Club,

. $21,500 for the John Viles Wing Snowmobile Club in Carrabassett Valley,

. $62,550 for the Meduxnekeag Ramblers in Littleton,

. $56,550 for the town of Chapman,

. $25,000 for the town of Eagle Lake,

. $29,900 for the town of New Canada, and

. $30,000 for the town of Caswell.