The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has provided a grooming subsidy to the coastal regions of Labrador for a number of years. This subsidy supports the Minister of Labrador Affairs' strategic direction to improve economic and social development in Labrador. As a result of the Northern Strategic Plan, the Province increased the subsidy by $150,000 to a total annual amount of $390,000. During the 2007-08 fiscal year, the subsidy was administered by the Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs through Labrador Winter Trails Inc.
The purpose is to provide support to regions along the north and south coasts of Labrador for maintenance of winter trails systems. The funds allow continued access for communities that do not have year round road connections to other areas of Labrador. During the reporting period, grooming operations on the north and south coasts of Labrador were overseen by Labrador Winter Trails Inc. in collaboration with community councils and development associations, where relevant.