West NY News

MAYVILLE, N.Y. - Chautauqua County and the Health Department are encouraging residents to enjoy the county's natural scenery and wildlife areas through active engagement. As an incentive, participants have a chance to win free groceries.

Health experts recommend adults get 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. While this may seem daunting, there are many enjoyable alternatives to traditional gym workouts, such as hiking local trails. A 30-minute hike on five trails in a week meets the recommended activity level.

The Wegmans Hit the Trail Passport program, sponsored by Wegmans and the Chautauqua County Health Department, offers an interactive local hiking experience. Participants can explore nature trails mapped out in the Passport booklet at their own pace throughout the year. Completing trail segments allows participants to capture distinctive seals in their Passports. Upon completion, participants earn reusable shopping bags from Wegmans and are entered into a drawing for a $250 Wegmans gift card exclusive to Chautauqua County participants. The gift card drawings will take place in December.

“National Trails Day is celebrated annually on June 1st and serves as a reminder to get out there and explore our beautiful county,” said Lacey Wilson, Chautauqua County Public Health Director. “It is a day of service for hometown trails and a chance to celebrate the beauty of our county. The Wegmans Hit the Trail Passport provides a fun and free way for residents to be active in nature. We encourage you to take advantage of this great opportunity!”

Bill Ward, President of Chautauqua Rails to Trails, added: “We at Chautauqua Rails to Trails are grateful for this partnership between the County and Wegmans. This program, designed to help folks discover an adventure that is literally in their backyard, is brilliant.”

Residents can pick up a Trail Passport at:

- Wegmans: 945 Fairmount Avenue, Jamestown, NY

- Chautauqua County Health Department: 7 North Erie Street, HRC Building, Mayville, NY

Alternatively, residents can download and print the passport from CHQgov.com/Trails.

Since 2005, Wegmans has partnered with local health departments and park conservancy groups to promote community use of town and county trails as part of its commitment to helping customers lead healthier lives through good food and healthy activities.

The Chautauqua County Health Department remains dedicated to supporting community health through innovative approaches that provide technical assistance to partner organizations while offering various programs aimed at disease prevention and overall wellness promotion.

For more information visit www.HealthyCHQ.com.

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