Where outdoor experiences fuel local vitality
New Hampshire’s outdoor, recreation, and nature-based economy plays a vital role in supporting local communities, small businesses, and quality of life across the state. From tourism and agritourism to outdoor recreation and destination development, this sector connects people to the landscapes and experiences that make New Hampshire unique. Extension works with communities, organizations, and businesses to provide education, research-based resources, and technical assistance that strengthen destinations, support sustainable growth, and enhance visitor and resident experiences alike.
Agritourism Development and Education
From hosting overnight farm stays and special events to offering pick-your-own experiences, more farms across New Hampshire are discovering creative ways to invite visitors onto their land. Agritourism can be an enjoyable and rewarding way to diversify farm income, but it also brings new considerations and business challenges. Extension provides a range of resources to support farmers, business owners, and destination communities in developing farm-based experiences that are safe, engaging, and memorable for visitors.
Developing Interconnections for Regional Trails
Developing Interconnections for Regional Trails (DIRT) is a New Hampshire initiative focused on strengthening regional trail networks through collaboration, education, and community engagement. It works to support sustainable trail development, connect organizations across recreation and conservation sectors, and share findings from its 2024–2025 research on trail groups. DIRT also offers free public workshops and promotes resilient, interconnected trail systems that benefit both local communities and the wider region.
Downtowns and Trails
The Downtowns and Trails program helps communities explore ways to better connect their downtowns with nearby trail systems. The program includes assessing downtowns, trail linkages, and surrounding areas; training local volunteers to gather input from businesses, residents, community leaders, and trail users; and engaging the broader community to share findings and identify next steps. Together, these efforts support thoughtful planning that strengthens local economies and enhances quality of place.
Nature Economy Collaborative
The Nature Economy Collaborative is a University of New Hampshire–led, interdisciplinary group focused on understanding how nature contributes to New Hampshire’s economy and quality of life. By engaging stakeholders and conducting research, the collaborative helps identify data needs to inform policy and decision-making across key areas, including workforce development, community vitality, natural asset use, and climate resilience.
Natural Resource Inventories
Natural resource inventories provide communities with a practical foundation for informed planning and conservation. The New Hampshire Natural Resources Inventory (NRI) Guide offers a clear method for identifying and describing local natural assets. By documenting these resources, communities and conservation groups can make proactive, well-informed decisions that balance development, conservation, and long-term community goals.
New Hampshire Barn Trail
The New Hampshire Barn Trail invites visitors to explore the state’s agricultural heritage through a collection of historic barns and farm sites across New Hampshire. Featuring an interactive map, the NH Barn trail highlights the history, architecture, and stories behind each barn while encouraging visitors to connect with local farms, museums, and rural communities. Developed through a collaboration of statewide partners, the NH Barn Trail celebrates working landscapes, preservation, and agritourism—offering meaningful experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Outdoor Economy Academy
The Outdoor Economy Academy, launched as a pilot in 2026, is a three-day, in‑person program, designed for municipal leaders, planners, local businesses, and community volunteers working at the intersection of economic development and outdoor recreation. Through site‑based sessions held across New Hampshire, participants engage in walking field trips, guest panels, and hands‑on activities that explore topics such as trail access, downtown and riverfront revitalization, and community resilience. This inaugural pilot Academy emphasizes peer learning and statewide connection, bringing together a cohort committed to strengthening New Hampshire’s outdoor economy through place‑based experience, collaboration, and practical insight.
Rivers and Economic Vibrancy
Rivers are central to many New Hampshire communities, offering opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and connection to nature. Communities that embrace their rivers as community assets can foster economic vibrancy while enhancing downtown life and quality of place. The River Towns concept supports communities in recognizing and strengthening the role rivers play in local economies and everyday experiences.
