#United States #Polaris #Minneapolis #outdoor recreation #National Forest Foundation

Polaris and National Forest Foundation Highlight 2026 Grant Recipients

Polaris Inc., a leading name in the powersports industry, has joined forces with the National Forest Foundation (NFF) to announce the 2026 recipients of their jointly established Polaris Fund for Outdoor Recreation Grants. This exciting development not only signifies the awarding of nearly $200,000 to various initiatives across America's National Forests, but it also marks the successful endowment of a fund aimed at fostering outdoor recreation for future generations.

Background on the Polaris Fund for Outdoor Recreation

Initially announced with a commitment of $5 million in 2021, the Polaris Fund for Outdoor Recreation aims to improve off-highway vehicle (OHV) trail systems, restore recreation infrastructure, and promote responsible outdoor activities. With the endowment fully established, Polaris is now able to provide ongoing financial support that guarantees sustainable funding for enhancing outdoor experiences.

Jess Rogers, Vice President of Communications and Community Giving at Polaris, expressed pride in the partnership with the NFF, emphasizing the mutual goal of prioritizing the future of American outdoor recreation. This endowment will benefit a wide array of projects focused on trail stewardship and riding education, ensuring that the great outdoors can be enjoyed safely and responsibly.

Highlights of the 2026 Grant Projects

The 2026 funding will support seven key projects across various National Forests located in different states. These projects focus on improving safety, trail maintenance, and education for both OHV and snowmobile users, showcasing Polaris's commitment to enhancing outdoor accessibility and sustainability. Here are some noteworthy initiatives:

1. Sedona Forest Road Speed Pilot Project (Coconino National Forest, Arizona): This project will install speed-limit and radar signage along a popular OHV route to bolster safety measures and promote responsible riding.

2. Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area Snowmobile Support (White River National Forest, Colorado): The NFF will receive a snowmobile and equipment donation to assist U.S. Forest Service patrols, enhancing rider safety while safeguarding wildlife habitats.

3. Tenderfoot Mountain Trail Maintenance (White River National Forest, Colorado): Volunteers will be engaged in tread repair and corridor clearing on a multi-use trail, ensuring long-term safety and sustainability for all users.

4. Cadillac ORV Scenic Ride Sustainability Project (Huron-Manistee National Forests, Michigan): This project aims to enhance trailhead facilities and maintain a shared ORV and snowmobile route for an improved year-round visitor experience.

5. Corridor 19 Improvements (White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire): Drainage and surface improvements will be made along a vital snowmobile corridor, enhancing safety and maintenance, especially during the early season.

6. Wayehutta OHV Trail System Improvements (Nantahala National Forest, Tennessee): Focused on trail restoration and erosion control, this initiative will address damage caused by Hurricane Helene while improving drainage.

7. Sucker Pond Trail Relocation (Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont): This project will relocate portions of the trail to protect local wetlands, enhancing rider safety and trail connectivity.

Conclusion

With the new grant recipients announced, Polaris continues to illustrate its dedication to maintaining and improving outdoor recreational opportunities across the United States. As Dieter Fenkart Froeschl, President and CEO of the NFF, aptly noted, Polaris has become a steadfast champion of the National Forests, enabling shared adventure and connection to nature.

Since the fund's inception in 2022, Polaris and the NFF have provided support for numerous projects across eight National Forests, reinforcing the importance of outdoor recreational activities and nurturing the places we cherish.

To learn more about this partnership and the initiatives supported by the Polaris Fund, visit Polaris's official site.