We improve, maintain, and promote the Northern Rail Trail as a four-season multi-use trail through Merrimack County. About 10 miles of the Trail go through Andover, connecting West Andover, Potter Place, Andover Center, and East Andover.

In the past year, activities supporting the trail included: For Andover’s Fourth of July celebration, Tom Frantz organized the Firecracker 5K foot race on the Trail, and Peter Southworth organized a raffle. S&W Sports of Concord and the Highland Lake Inn of East Andover contributed prizes, with additional support from Jake’s Market and Pizza Chef. On July 23 and 24 we hosted the New England Handicapped Sports Association and Boston Veterans Administration’s trail ride.

With a $30,000 grant from the State and equipment donated by Ben and Peter Crowell of New London, in October we added almost four miles of trail to reach Jamie Welch Park at Depot Street in Boscawen. Chris Norris supervised the construction, and Nita Tomaszewski of Franklin was project administrator. In addition, we refinished one mile north of Danbury Town Garage to Ford Mill Road.

The Trail needs financial support and help throughout the year. Donations may be made at FNRT.org. For further information call President Bob Ward at 735-5061 or Vice-President Alex Bernhard at 735-5071.