The state's attempt to build an .adventure tourism. industry in Kentucky is raising concerns among sportsmen and environmentalists who worry the move could damage nature preserves and wildlife management areas.

The groups say they have gotten wind of a behind-the-scenes effort by Lt. Gov. Daniel Mongiardo to boost rural economies by allowing ATVs in places where they now are prohibited.

A spokesman for Mongiardo said Wednesday that there are no such plans currently, but acknowledged Mongiardo is gathering information about land that could be used for multi-purpose trails.

The League of Kentucky Sportsman wrote Mongiardo this week saying the group supports his ideas for adventure tourism, but .reaffirms its opposition. to permitting all-terrain vehicles on Wildlife Management areas owned and managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.