WATERTOWN, N.Y. -- State Senator Darrel Aubertine is speaking out about the DEC's decision to close ATV trails in Lewis, Jefferson and Oswego Counties. Aubertine said the decision cuts off a vital segment of the economy in the Tug Hill region.

Aubertine goes on to say that closing the trails has effectively halted efforts to create a safe and well maintained trail system stretching from Oswego to Barnes Corners in Lewis County.

According to a study by Camoin Associates of Saratoga Springs, non-resident ATV riders contributed as much as $35 million to the regional economy.

The DEC closed the trails last month because they were not in accordance with the state vehicle and traffic law.