GREENVILLE, S.C. (April 10, 2009)—Michelin North America Inc.'s BFGoodrich Tire brand is reducing its 2009 Outstanding Trails program to two trails as a result of current economic conditions, the company said.
This year the company, along with partners Tread Lightly! and United Four Wheel Drive Associations, will recognize the Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area located five miles north of Gilmer, Texas, and the Fordyce Creek Trail, which is part of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Last year the program included six trails.
Barnwell is a 1,800-acre park with a trail system designed and built specifically for motorized off-road purposes. The Fordyce Creek Trail began in the 19th century as a wagon trail serving the mining town of Summit City in what is now Utah.
BFGoodrich will make its stop May 23 at the Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area and on Aug. 8 will visit the Fordyce Creek Trail. The company will also present a grant to a selected off-road club at both trail events to aid with trail conservation costs.
The Outstanding Trails program, launched in 2006, promotes the responsible use and preservation of off-road trails and provides aid for trail conservation efforts. Trails are evaluated based on several criteria, including uniqueness, terrain type and enthusiast following, Michelin said.