Outdoor Economy Trailblazers: Glenn Trefethen

New Hampshire’s outdoor spaces help shape our communities, our local businesses, and the way we connect with the places we love. The Outdoor Economy Academy (OEA) brings together people who care about these landscapes and want to help their towns thrive. The Outdoor Economy Trailblazers profile series introduces those participants — what inspires them, what they’re working on, and how they’re helping strengthen the outdoor economy across the state — giving you a quick look at the folks turning ideas into action.

Meet Glenn Trefethen, Lakes Region Planning Commission

Question: Tell us a little bit about why you decided to participate in the Outdoor Economy Academy. 

Glenn: As a planner that advises 31 communities with varying needs, while focusing on Transportation and Brownfields, the OEA was a perfect opportunity to see what other postindustrial communities have been able to achieve to revitalize their local economies. Building on the Rails to Trails Conservancy Trail Nation Summit and the EPA Brownfields Conference, I wanted to better understand how New Hampshire communities are leveraging state programs and local partnerships to create new economic opportunities.

Question: What is one key takeaway you gleaned from the Academy?

Glenn: My biggest takeaway was that successful revitalization depends on thoughtful planning and strong partnerships. Communities need local champions, support from organizations like RPCs, and early planning that combines funding tools such as TIF, RSA 79-E, Opportunity Zones, and Brownfields Grants. Equally important is meaningful public engagement through meetings, charrettes, community events, and volunteers—whose contributions should never be underestimated.

“...successful revitalization depends on thoughtful planning and strong partnerships.”

Question: Thinking about what's next for you, how do you plan to apply OEA knowledge or concepts in your own work?

Glenn: Prior to partaking in OEA, LRPC Transportation Advisory Committee voted to create a subcommittee for bike/ped planning efforts to help fill in the gaps of our regional trail systems and to learn more about the tools out there. Once I attended OEA, I knew how I wanted to facilitate this committee. This fall, the subcommittee will bring together municipalities, trail organizations, volunteers, and state partners to identify challenges, share successful projects, and determine the resources needed to advance bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. In Spring 2027, we plan to host a regional panel to share best practices, funding opportunities, and lessons learned, helping communities use trail investments to strengthen their local economies. This is all so communities can better leverage trail development as a catalyst for economic development, tourism, and improved quality of life.

Want to see how the Outdoor Economy Academy is helping communities across New Hampshire use outdoor assets to drive economic development and improve quality of life? Visit Harnessing the Power of Place: An Outdoor Economy Academy Overview.