News and Events

Biden Signs Outdoor Recreation Bill Into Law

[12‑Jan‑2025] The Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act (EXPLORE) will expand opportunities for Americans in public outdoor spaces like national parks and forests. Its provisions include improved access for disabled people and military veterans, protections for rock climbing, better access to public lands and waters for recreational purposes and abridged permitting processes and reduced fees for small businesses that depend on public lands. THE HILL »

$300,000 in Grants Awarded to Support Mountain Biking Trail System Development

[29‑Dec‑2024] The Healey-Driscoll Administration has announced over $300,000 in Destination Mountain Biking Development Grants through the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation. In partnership with the New England Mountain Bike Association, three organizations have been awarded grants to build and maintain destination mountain biking trail systems that include accessibility features, offer scenic routes, and stimulate rural economies. Projects completed by grantees will feature adaptive mountain biking trails that can be enjoyed by riders using assistive devices. MASS.GOV »

Healey-Driscoll Administration Launches Trails for All

[07‑Nov‑2024] The Healey-Driscoll Administration has launched Trails for All, a comprehensive initiative that will review the current state of universally accessible trails in Massachusetts. Through intentional trail planning, the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation plans to promote inclusivity for people with disabling conditions and other mobility considerations by implementing trail improvements such as gentle grades, stable surfaces, and inclusive signage. MASS.GOV »

$167,000 in Grants Awarded to Support Inclusive and Accessible Outdoor Recreation

[20‑Apr‑2024] In celebration of Earth Month, the Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced $167,000 in grants to support equitable access to outdoor recreation events through the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation. 21 organizations and municipalities have been awarded Inclusive and Accessible Event grants to improve ease of access to outdoor recreational activities for low-income residents, communities of color, and people living with disabilities. MASS.GOV »

Healey-Driscoll Administration Launches Grant Program to Promote Inclusive Outdoor Recreation

[15‑Dec‑2023] The Healey-Driscoll Administration today launched a new grant program to make outdoor recreational activities more accessible to low-income residents, communities of color, and people living with disabilities. The Massachusetts Inclusive and Accessible Outdoor Recreation Events Grant Program is the first funding initiative by the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation. The office will award $100,000 to support organizations in creating or expanding events across the state, helping to promote Massachusetts as a welcoming, inclusive, diverse, and accessible place to play outside. MASS.GOV »