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Ontario boasts over 80,000 km in trails. Whether you're in downtown Toronto or North of Superior, we have a trail for you. The Ontario Trails Council is a registered charity, led by volunteers who promote the development, management, use and conservation of Ontario's trails. You'll find everything from gentle walking trails to rock faces for climbing and water routes to canoe and kayak.
Showing posts with label MTCS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label MTCS. Show all posts
Thursday, January 26, 2017
Ontario Trails News - Trailwise - January 26, 2017
Monday, August 22, 2016
Ontario Trails News - Ontario invests in Healthy Communities - our community includes trails!
Province Investing $7.2 Million to Support Healthy and Active CommunitiesAugust 9, 2016Ontario Sport and Recreation Communities Fund Increasing Opportunities for OntariansOntario is helping to increase opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to get active, stay fit and lead healthier lives.Through the Ontario Sport and Recreation Communities Fund, the province is investing $7.2 million in 2016-17 to support local, regional and provincial organizations that offer quality programs and services to keep Ontarians active in sport, recreation and physical activity. Eleanor McMahon, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, was in Tiny, Ontario today to announce that, as part of this fund, the province is providing more than $20,000 to Come Play with Us: Rev Up for Active Gaming in Tiny! This one-year project will encourage approximately 150 adults and seniors in the Township of Tiny and surrounding areas to learn about recreational activities and become more physically active. This year, the Ontario Sport and Recreation Communities Fund is supporting 129 local, regional and provincial projects. These grants will help people across the province get involved in sport and recreation, improve their physical literacy, and strengthen their communities through coaching, youth development and volunteer development. Investing in sport, recreation and active living in communities across the province is part of the government's economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest infrastructure investment in hospitals, schools, roads, bridges and transit in Ontario's history and is investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement. |
QUICK FACTS
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Everyday Ontario Trails assists trails in Ontario - Service Request Form
The Ontario Trails Council requests that folks start using it's Service Request form so that we can track the supports we provide to trail organizations in Ontario - a lot of which is unfunded.
Our work, leading to Bill 100, or an Ontario Trails Implementation Strategy benefits all trails, but not all support our work, so if you want our valuable assistance please complete this form going forward so we can track requests!
We believe in trails and would be happy to assist as per our mandate and mission, but a priority, given resource and time constraints will be given to our partners first.
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Ontario Trails News - New Minister of Tourism Culture and Sport, Trailhead Ontario June 19-21, and more!
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| ADD YOUR TRAIL |
Early bird registration ends - June 3rd, 2016
A full and varied program for Trailhead Ontario 2016. Be sure to join us in Renfrew, but book now!!
Rooms are limited and so is the size of the conference. Trailhead Ontario 2016 Symposium Itinerary
We are going to be talking about the new Adirondack to Algonquin trail Plan with representatives from the Adirondack to Algonquin Organization - Please welcome Emily Conger from the A2A Trail Collaborative.
Work with the Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization as they expend trails in the region and take advantage of trails tourism potential in Eastern Ontario!
Over the last two years Petawawa Economic Development has spearheaded the development of a community trails committee along the lines of the OTC RTC model. Join Kelly Williams from Petawawa as he discusses the development and successes of this initiative in support of trails!
Ottawa Valley Outdoor Experiences! rarely is there so much to do in an area. Ottawa Valley has it all. Trails, amenities and more - join us as we learn about their quality and quantity of trails related destinations and experiences
Over the past 6 years the Parks of the St. Lawrence have revitalized their trail system, offering more and newer kilometers of trails in support of the park's other experiences. Welcome Lou Seiler from Parks of the St. Lawrence as he talks about the development and enactment process!
Since 2012 the Ontario Ministry of Tourism Culture and Sport has worked to consult with communities on the Ontario trails strategy and the various new legislation in support of trails - i.e. "The Supporting Ontario trails Act." Come and hear from the government on the progress we are making together to make better communities through trails.
City of Ottawa Cycling and trails - Ottawa has a world class system of trails and cycling routes. Come and here the planning department talk about the fit of planning with trail development!
The National Capital Greenbelt in Ottawa has over 150 kilometres of trails that connect to the Trans Canada Trail, Rideau Trail and Capital Pathway network. Whether you have half an hour for a short hike or plan on spending the day, the Greenbelt has something for you.
Trans Canada Trail works with local partners – trail owner/operators – to plan and support development of trail across Ontario. With a connectivity challenge to be met for 2017 come and hear about how the TCT supports trails, communities and it's completion!
May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month and it's only right that you protect yourself while out on the trails. Lyme-carrying black-legged ticks can be found across Canada - but the highest concentration of infection is in Eastern Canada - which scientists believe is linked to climate change. Follow these tips to avoid Lyme disease. Come to the conference and hear about the strategies the working group is developing to help the public.
Sentiers Prescott Russell and Glengarry Trails are two trail supporting organizations in eastern Ontario. One is a County Committee the other operates as a "Friends of" model. Learn about both styles of operation and the trails they support!
Township of Madawaska Valley Trail is developing at a fast pace. A regional leader, the Township supports the trail enhancements for both the community and the tourist. Join us to hear about their trail gains.
Principles of Trail Risk Management, and Trails Risk Management - How to Say Yes to Trails, with Jeff Jackson, will provide the latent trail developer, or the trail leader with undeveloped projects or political will to get the trails done, with insight for planners and politicos alike to say yes to trails. We aren't as risky as you think!
Ottawa River-Keeper - programs and plans for development, they were thrilled when we contacted them, because they are a small group protecting a big river and they know you probably also have a river that needs support in order to maintain itself for paddlers!
Just look at the list of projects on this page Mattawa Trail Development, these folks are bringing the house down with all types of trails and new projects. Learn how they are getting it done.
First Nation Tourism and Trails, join First Nations leaders as we discuss the joint relationship on the land we share. An emerging force in tourism and trails we should figure out ways to work with all communities so we co-develop trails!
Register today!
IMBA Training for Landowners - June 22-23 Calabogie!
A full and varied program for Trailhead Ontario 2016. Be sure to join us in Renfrew, but book now!!
Rooms are limited and so is the size of the conference. Trailhead Ontario 2016 Symposium Itinerary
| Monday | ||
| 8:30-9:00AM | Registration | Coffee Served |
| 9:00-9:15AM | Welcome remarks | Dignitaries |
| 9:15-10:00AM | Presentation | Renfrew County withAlgonquin to Adirondack Trail |
| 10:00-10:30AM | Presentation | Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization |
| 10:30-10:45AM | Break | Coffee Break |
| 10:45-11:15AM | Presentation | Petawawa - the development of our Regional Trail Association |
| 11:15-11:45AM | Presentation | Ottawa Valley Outdoor Experiences |
| 11:45-12:15PM | Presentation | Parks of the St. Lawrence |
| 12:15-1:30 PM | Lunch | |
| 1:00-1:30PM | Presentation | Ontario Trails Council AGM (Members Only Please) |
| 1:30-2:15PM | Presentation | Updates on the Trails Act and the Ontario Trails Strategy with the Ministry of Tourism Culture and Sport |
| 2:15-2:45PM | Presentation | Ontario Federation of Agriculture |
| 2:45-3:00PM | Break | |
| 3:15-3:45PM | Presentation | First Nation Tourism and Trails |
| 3:45-4:15PM | Presentation | Trans Canada Trail |
| 4:15-4:45PM | Presentation | Understanding andPreventing Lyme Disease |
| 4:45-5:15PM | Presentation | Sentiers Prescott Russell andGlengarry Trails |
| 5:15-6PM | Networking | Cash Bar |
| 6PM - 9PM | Dinner & Keynote Speaker | TBD |
| Tuesday | ||
| 8:30 – 9:00AM | Registration | Coffee Served |
| 9:00-9:15 AM | Welcome remarks | Dignitaries - Madawaska Valley |
| 9:15-9:45AM | Presentation | Township of Madawaska Valley Trail Developments |
| 10:00-10:30AM | Plenary Session | Principles of Trail Risk Management, with Jeff Jackson |
| 10:30-10:45AM | Coffee Break | |
| 10:45-11:30AM | Plenary Session | Trails Risk Management - How to Say Yes to Trails, with Jeff Jackson |
| Noon-1PM | Lunch | Networking Lunch |
| 1:00-2:00PM | Plenary Session | Water Trails - Developing trails for Use |
| 2:00-2:45PM | Plenary Session | Ottawa River-Keeper - programs and plans for development |
| 2:45-3:00PM | Break | |
| 3:00-3:30PM | Plenary Session | Integrated Trails Tourism Project |
| 3:30-4:00PM | Plenary Session | Mattawa Trail Development |
| 4:00-4:30PM | Plenary Session | Developing Horse Trails |
| 4:30PM | Wrap-up and Next Steps | Trailhead Canada 2017! |
We are going to be talking about the new Adirondack to Algonquin trail Plan with representatives from the Adirondack to Algonquin Organization - Please welcome Emily Conger from the A2A Trail Collaborative.
Work with the Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization as they expend trails in the region and take advantage of trails tourism potential in Eastern Ontario!
Over the last two years Petawawa Economic Development has spearheaded the development of a community trails committee along the lines of the OTC RTC model. Join Kelly Williams from Petawawa as he discusses the development and successes of this initiative in support of trails!
Ottawa Valley Outdoor Experiences! rarely is there so much to do in an area. Ottawa Valley has it all. Trails, amenities and more - join us as we learn about their quality and quantity of trails related destinations and experiences
Over the past 6 years the Parks of the St. Lawrence have revitalized their trail system, offering more and newer kilometers of trails in support of the park's other experiences. Welcome Lou Seiler from Parks of the St. Lawrence as he talks about the development and enactment process!
Since 2012 the Ontario Ministry of Tourism Culture and Sport has worked to consult with communities on the Ontario trails strategy and the various new legislation in support of trails - i.e. "The Supporting Ontario trails Act." Come and hear from the government on the progress we are making together to make better communities through trails.
City of Ottawa Cycling and trails - Ottawa has a world class system of trails and cycling routes. Come and here the planning department talk about the fit of planning with trail development!
The National Capital Greenbelt in Ottawa has over 150 kilometres of trails that connect to the Trans Canada Trail, Rideau Trail and Capital Pathway network. Whether you have half an hour for a short hike or plan on spending the day, the Greenbelt has something for you.
Trans Canada Trail works with local partners – trail owner/operators – to plan and support development of trail across Ontario. With a connectivity challenge to be met for 2017 come and hear about how the TCT supports trails, communities and it's completion!
May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month and it's only right that you protect yourself while out on the trails. Lyme-carrying black-legged ticks can be found across Canada - but the highest concentration of infection is in Eastern Canada - which scientists believe is linked to climate change. Follow these tips to avoid Lyme disease. Come to the conference and hear about the strategies the working group is developing to help the public.
Sentiers Prescott Russell and Glengarry Trails are two trail supporting organizations in eastern Ontario. One is a County Committee the other operates as a "Friends of" model. Learn about both styles of operation and the trails they support!
Township of Madawaska Valley Trail is developing at a fast pace. A regional leader, the Township supports the trail enhancements for both the community and the tourist. Join us to hear about their trail gains.
Principles of Trail Risk Management, and Trails Risk Management - How to Say Yes to Trails, with Jeff Jackson, will provide the latent trail developer, or the trail leader with undeveloped projects or political will to get the trails done, with insight for planners and politicos alike to say yes to trails. We aren't as risky as you think!
Ottawa River-Keeper - programs and plans for development, they were thrilled when we contacted them, because they are a small group protecting a big river and they know you probably also have a river that needs support in order to maintain itself for paddlers!
Just look at the list of projects on this page Mattawa Trail Development, these folks are bringing the house down with all types of trails and new projects. Learn how they are getting it done.
First Nation Tourism and Trails, join First Nations leaders as we discuss the joint relationship on the land we share. An emerging force in tourism and trails we should figure out ways to work with all communities so we co-develop trails!
Register today!
IMBA Training for Landowners - June 22-23 Calabogie!
New Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Appointed.
Liberal politician Eleanor McMahon – founder of Ontario's Share the Road Cycling Coalition – has been appointed as Ontario's Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. She is co-chair of the Legislative All Party Cycling Caucus and, as Minister for Tourism, has pledged to do more for cycling. “I’m eager to see us map out our own cycling infrastructure network here," she told a local paper.
McMahon founded the Share the Road Cycling Coalition in 2008 to lobby for enhanced penalties for suspended drivers. As a result of her campaign, Greg’s Law was passed in 2009 aiming to reducing the number of suspended drivers and repeat offenders on Ontario’s roads. McMahon became a politician in 2014.
Last Thursday, before being informed of her elevation, McMahon moved an amendment to the Highway Traffic Act to increase penalties for careless driving causing death or bodily harm. Her policeman husband Sgt. Greg Stobbart was killed while on a training ride ten years ago. The killer driver was found to have five previous convictions for driving under suspension but was not jailed for the death he caused.
The new Minister for Tourism said cycling is a growing part of the tourism sector, and a popular transport choice for Ontarians.
The capital of Ontario, a province of Canada, is Toronto which is slowly become more bicycle-friendly. Former Toronto Mayor Rob Ford was famously anti-cycling.
Region lifts ban on side-by-side cycling
Roads in rural townships now have a mix of rules for bikes riding two-abreast
Cycling
Independent file photo
Waterloo Region will now allow cyclists to bike side-by-side on its roads, but Wilmot and Wellesley townships still have the ban in place for township roads.
New Hamburg Independent
The act of side-by-side cycling on regional roads is no longer prohibited after a decision by Waterloo Regional council — but some township councillors aren’t in favour of the decision.
Regional council decided to remove the clause prohibiting two-abreast cycling in order to better align their bylaw with the Highway Traffic Act, which already allows bike-riders to do so. The decision, made after a June 1 council meeting, went against the wishes of Wellesley Township’s council.
Mayor Joe Nowak, who spoke against the ruling, was worried that the decision wouldn’t be safe, at least not for roads in Wellesley township.
“I asked if they had any plans to identify roads that would be dangerous from our point of view, and they didn’t have one,” he told Wellesley township council on June 7.
The Region of Waterloo has jurisdiction over some major roads, while the townships govern the rest. Roads under the control of Wellesley Township will still enforce the single-file cycling ruling, while regional roads that run through the township will no longer have that restriction.
“Now we have two separate rules, and that will cause confusion,” Mayor Nowak told council. “Lets hope nothing serious happens, because nobody wins in that case.”
Nowak was particularly concerned with cycling clubs, who use the roads for training. They seem to create the biggest volume of cyclists out on the roads, and the mayor told council he was interested in regulating their numbers.
Coun. Herb Neher was equally disappointed at the region’s ruling, saying that of all the people he’s talked to, not one has been in favour of two-abreast cycling.
“People making the decisions live in the city and that’s the unfortunate part for us,” he told council last week. “They have not been on some of these roads out here and I feel sorry for citizens.”
The president of the Waterloo Cycling Club, however, was in favour of dropping local rules that only allow single-file cycling. Alain Francq told regional council on June 1 that removing the bylaw against two-abreast cycling would be better for cyclists and motorists.
He said research shows two-abreast cycling to be safer than single file, as it doesn’t force motorists to pass such a long line of bikes. Francq added that both drivers and cyclists are confused when local rules contradict what is in the Highway Traffic Act.
Wilmot Mayor Les Armstrong said his township hasn’t discussed the issue yet, but the bylaw is coming up for review this year.
As of right now, a township bylaw still requires single-file cycling on Wilmot’s roads, but, like Wellesley, it is no longer prohibited to ride side-by-side on regional roads — provided riders still adhere to the Highway Traffic Act and pull over when they are being passed by vehicles.
“Enforcing this is difficult,” said Armstrong. “It’s important that the province looks at clarifying this, as there are other means of transportation of a similar nature, like longboards and scooters.”
Armstrong said that police only enforce Ontario traffic laws — which doesn’t require single-file cycling — and that it’s not a high priority for the township’s bylaw officers to pull over or ticket cyclists who break the Wilmot-specific rules.
Friday, January 1, 2016
Ontario Trails News - Trailwise Week of December 31, 2015
Seasonal Best Wishes and Our Thanks
It's that time of year where we should reflect a bit and give thanks to all the folks that have helped the OTC over the last year. to those who have helped who are not mentioned - my apologies and regret at the forget.
The President Jack de Wit, the Old and New Board - they all work hard, participated in many important meetings, networked and took hundreds of calls from the office, while working on behalf of all trails.
The Members - thanks we can't do this work without you!
The Trailhead Ontario support team - Wayne, Wayne, Alexa, Carli, Krupesh, the McMaster University Staffs - a fantastic job - thanks - and to the Hamilton Burlington Trails Council, RTO3-Hamilton-Halton-Brant, for their community support and ongoing partnership.
Our Ontario Government partners - from Minister Coteau, to Carol, Anna, Stephen, Craig, Steve, Gillian and the whole team - thanks for all your support, the OTCC, Bill 100 and 31 - and an implementation plan
To The Niagara Trails Committee and Tracey-Lynn for persevering, and to all the Niagara area communities that we talk to regularly about trails and trail issues, SHCC, UCHA, OFTR, QuadN, Niagara Falls, Thorold, Welland, St. Kitts and 'Port'; as well as all the other Trails Councils and leaders in Oxford, Haldimand, Selwyn, York, Vaughan and Clarington.
To Simcoe for their most generous donation of a HETAP Unit to the OTC so we can audit and assist in the auditing of trails! And all our SMBA pals.
To All at Fontasy Signs, Edge Auditor, Get Out There, Context Creative, Simplicate Interactive, Web2Studio, HWL Fine Art, PODesign, your timely advice and professional guidance keep us showcasing trails.
To The staff at Ministry of Economic Development, Infrastructure and Employment for all the work they put into making Ontario more accessible and helping us do the same for trails.
To the National Trails Coalition and Canadian Trails Federation for working together and making Canada better through collaboration and cooperation - and to INFC and Gov. of Canada for funding trails.
To the Georgian Bay Coast Trail for bringing people together, through trails to support a great vision and new opportunity, with P2P, Explorer's Edge, Muskoka Trails Council and the towns we love up there!
The Trails Education Program and Partners - our faculty, Paul Ronan, Shelley with Ontario Parks Association, Graham Burke, Zane, Matt, Jeff, Algonquin College - thanks for bringing trails knowledge to folks, in Ontario and coast to coast, the folks that helped with the education posters and Trails Talk - + Kate and Robert at Orland Conservation - thanks.
Our Trailhead North partners in Thunder Bay and now Marathon - your places are "Canada wild and free" and we are glad to assist in putting new ideas in play, with you the VTA, Nipigon, Thunder Bay, Path of the Paddle and more.
To Joanna Milarczek, who must love trails more than anyone because for 5 years she's regularly and voluntarily posted new content to the OTC FB page.
To our new friends and supporters, Irena, Jana, Jennifer, and Bob + Bob's team, King Township Horsemen with LSRCA and TRCA, Rare, Gamiing and Ontario Nature.
To my family and friends for their constant support, free overnights at homes on the road, Barry, Kirsten, Steve, Dave, Bonnie, Jack, Wayne and everybody else that makes OTC work -
Wishing you and yours a Happy Holiday and a prosperous 2016!
Ontario Trails Council forwards message from MTCS on Trails Strategy
Hello Members of the OTCC
I am pleased to attach the Trails Action Plan for the Ontario Trails Strategy, which is being released today to trail stakeholders.
I wish to thank the members of the OTCC that contributed to the development of the Trails Action Plan through consultations, other engagement sessions, written submissions and many other forums. Your input helped inform its priorities.
The Trails Action Plan will be implemented collaboratively in a consensus-seeking approach with stakeholders, with whom we will continue to engage. A number of Action Items are well underway and others will be scoped in early 2016. Progress will be reported on through the OTCC. Ministry staff will be rolling up a summary for your review at three key points:
i) Summary of Trails Action Plan Year One Action Items by Scope, Key Milestone Tasks and Target Dates
ii) Summary of Trails Action Plan Year One Action Item Interim Progress Reports; and
iii) Summary of Trails Action Plan Year One Action Item Year-End Progress Reports.
You are invited to participate, to the extent of your interest, in scoping and implementing Action Items. Please let Julie Mayorov know of your interests no later than January 8, 2016. Julie may be reached at Julie.Mayorov@ontario.ca or by phone at 416 327-0398.
If you have inquiries about specific Action Items please contact Carol Oitment at carol.oitment@ontario.ca or by phone at 416-314-7205.
Finally, we are consolidating the results of the Review of the OTCC that was undertaken at the facilitated session in October and will be reporting back with our recommendations at the next meeting. More information on meeting dates for 2016 will be forthcoming in the New Year.
I wish you a happy holiday season!
Steve Harlow
Assistant Deputy Minister
Sport, Recreation and Community Programs Division
Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport
Click the image for links to reports
Trail User Survey 2014
Sandbanks Provincial Park - Trail Development
OTC Ramping Up Regional Trail Symposiums
Planning has begun for Trailhead Ontario 2016. Our hosts are Renfrew County and Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO). Both are long time Ontario Trails Council supporters, and Jason Davies from Renfrew sits on the OTC Board of Directors.
The OHTO is one of 13 regional tourism organizations (RTO) in place to attract visitation to Ontario. The region is one of the largest in the Province and is located just south of Algonquin Park. They have been promoting opportunities for visitors to disconnect from the stress of a busy life, throw away the schedule and wander into the breathtaking scenery of the region.
As an organization they have acknowledged that having well established and properly maintained trails throughout their region enables visitors to wander Ontario’s Highlands in a variety of ways.
Whether you wander to experience the speed and excitement of ATVing and Snowmobiling or to take in the tranquil surroundings by foot or bike, Ontario’s Highlands has the trail systems to accommodate.
All Sessions at Calabogie Peaks Resort
https://trailheadontario2016.wordpress.com/
Program Outline - Calabogie Peaks Resort
Trailhead North - Marathon
Trails Talk
Join us every other Tuesday at 1pm EST for a lively half hour discussion on trail issues of importance to the trails community. We are pleased to have added an additional topic to the Agenda - see January 12th.
We will be using our Google Hangout to facilitate our Trail Talks. So make sure you have a gmail account and the hangout app added to your gplus account.
Invited presenters include:
January 5th, 2016 - Kinghorn Trail Association - all about the development of this important northern trail with Kirsten Spence.
NEW - January 12th - Land Use Planning - all about securing land for trails, when, how to, and potential pitfalls and problems - with Kate Potter and Robert Orland from Orland Conservation.
January 19th, 2016 - Fundraising for Non-Profit Organizations - with Thomas Allgoewer - a half hour discussion about how to facilitate your organization goals and objectives through fundraising efforts.
February 2nd, 2016 - Edge Auditor - the program that helps you know and log in all the facts about your trail, with Niall Lobely.
February 16th, 2016 - Explorer's Edge - all about the great trails in RTO 12 with James Murphy of Explorer's Edge.
March 1, 2016 - The Georgian Bay Coast Trail - who supports it, what is happening and all about our spring community meeting in Killarney. With Luke Wassegijig and Kirsten Spence.
March 15, 2016 - Trans Canada Trail - with Jane Murphy and Al McPherson. You've heard about it, how is it progressing? How can you support it?
March 29, 2016 - Hiking, what is it? Who does it? What you need to know about community programs, and trail leadership programs - with Bill Mungall
April 12th, 2016 - Trail Building - are you interested? What is trail building all about? Who does it and the skills you need, with stories from trail builder Zane Davies.
Please consider supporting our work
It's that time of year where we should reflect a bit and give thanks to all the folks that have helped the OTC over the last year. to those who have helped who are not mentioned - my apologies and regret at the forget.The President Jack de Wit, the Old and New Board - they all work hard, participated in many important meetings, networked and took hundreds of calls from the office, while working on behalf of all trails.
The Members - thanks we can't do this work without you!
The Trailhead Ontario support team - Wayne, Wayne, Alexa, Carli, Krupesh, the McMaster University Staffs - a fantastic job - thanks - and to the Hamilton Burlington Trails Council, RTO3-Hamilton-Halton-Brant, for their community support and ongoing partnership.
Our Ontario Government partners - from Minister Coteau, to Carol, Anna, Stephen, Craig, Steve, Gillian and the whole team - thanks for all your support, the OTCC, Bill 100 and 31 - and an implementation plan
To The Niagara Trails Committee and Tracey-Lynn for persevering, and to all the Niagara area communities that we talk to regularly about trails and trail issues, SHCC, UCHA, OFTR, QuadN, Niagara Falls, Thorold, Welland, St. Kitts and 'Port'; as well as all the other Trails Councils and leaders in Oxford, Haldimand, Selwyn, York, Vaughan and Clarington.
To Simcoe for their most generous donation of a HETAP Unit to the OTC so we can audit and assist in the auditing of trails! And all our SMBA pals.
To All at Fontasy Signs, Edge Auditor, Get Out There, Context Creative, Simplicate Interactive, Web2Studio, HWL Fine Art, PODesign, your timely advice and professional guidance keep us showcasing trails.
To The staff at Ministry of Economic Development, Infrastructure and Employment for all the work they put into making Ontario more accessible and helping us do the same for trails.
To the National Trails Coalition and Canadian Trails Federation for working together and making Canada better through collaboration and cooperation - and to INFC and Gov. of Canada for funding trails.
To the Georgian Bay Coast Trail for bringing people together, through trails to support a great vision and new opportunity, with P2P, Explorer's Edge, Muskoka Trails Council and the towns we love up there!
The Trails Education Program and Partners - our faculty, Paul Ronan, Shelley with Ontario Parks Association, Graham Burke, Zane, Matt, Jeff, Algonquin College - thanks for bringing trails knowledge to folks, in Ontario and coast to coast, the folks that helped with the education posters and Trails Talk - + Kate and Robert at Orland Conservation - thanks.
Our Trailhead North partners in Thunder Bay and now Marathon - your places are "Canada wild and free" and we are glad to assist in putting new ideas in play, with you the VTA, Nipigon, Thunder Bay, Path of the Paddle and more.
To Joanna Milarczek, who must love trails more than anyone because for 5 years she's regularly and voluntarily posted new content to the OTC FB page.
To our new friends and supporters, Irena, Jana, Jennifer, and Bob + Bob's team, King Township Horsemen with LSRCA and TRCA, Rare, Gamiing and Ontario Nature.
To my family and friends for their constant support, free overnights at homes on the road, Barry, Kirsten, Steve, Dave, Bonnie, Jack, Wayne and everybody else that makes OTC work -
Wishing you and yours a Happy Holiday and a prosperous 2016!
Ontario Trails Council forwards message from MTCS on Trails Strategy
Hello Members of the OTCC
I am pleased to attach the Trails Action Plan for the Ontario Trails Strategy, which is being released today to trail stakeholders.
I wish to thank the members of the OTCC that contributed to the development of the Trails Action Plan through consultations, other engagement sessions, written submissions and many other forums. Your input helped inform its priorities.
The Trails Action Plan will be implemented collaboratively in a consensus-seeking approach with stakeholders, with whom we will continue to engage. A number of Action Items are well underway and others will be scoped in early 2016. Progress will be reported on through the OTCC. Ministry staff will be rolling up a summary for your review at three key points:
i) Summary of Trails Action Plan Year One Action Items by Scope, Key Milestone Tasks and Target Dates
ii) Summary of Trails Action Plan Year One Action Item Interim Progress Reports; and
iii) Summary of Trails Action Plan Year One Action Item Year-End Progress Reports.
You are invited to participate, to the extent of your interest, in scoping and implementing Action Items. Please let Julie Mayorov know of your interests no later than January 8, 2016. Julie may be reached at Julie.Mayorov@ontario.ca or by phone at 416 327-0398.
If you have inquiries about specific Action Items please contact Carol Oitment at carol.oitment@ontario.ca or by phone at 416-314-7205.
Finally, we are consolidating the results of the Review of the OTCC that was undertaken at the facilitated session in October and will be reporting back with our recommendations at the next meeting. More information on meeting dates for 2016 will be forthcoming in the New Year.
I wish you a happy holiday season!
Steve Harlow
Assistant Deputy Minister
Sport, Recreation and Community Programs Division
Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport
Click the image for links to reports
Trail User Survey 2014
OTC Supports Communities Developing Trails!
Sandbanks Provincial Park - Trail Development
Sandbanks Provincial Park currently has five separate trails with a combined length of fifteen kilometers. Through the project eleven of these kilometres was interconnected and improved and three new kilometers of trails was be added. All of the trails are surfaced to a standard to support cycling, strollers and wheel-chairs.
Trail signage for direction and education, was installed to assist trail users. Because of the interconnections and surface upgrades the network will now begin to function as a safer alternative travel option away from the heavily travelled vehicle-based roads.
Through this project different trail segments underwent different improvements. Some segments need signs, gates and benches, others segments had sub-surface and surface improvements, some required short linkages and marking while other segments were completely renewed.
Lakeview Trail - 2.5 kilometers along the shore of Lake Ontario.
This trail was rough constructed as a walking trail with funds provided by the Friends of Sandbanks in 2013 and 2014. It is now surfaced to a cycling standard with gates, signs, and benches.
Woodlands Trail - 6 kilometers through hardwood forest and former farm field.
This trail is narrow with a soil and gravel substrate. It is suited for walking and cycling with a wide-tire bicycle. It is too narrow to conveniently allow passing of two way traffic. Through this project the trail was widened and surfaced.
Spruce woods Trail -3.5 kilometers through mixed conifer forest on stable sand dunes
Half of this trail is a former bush road. The surface is loose sand and pine needles. Most of the remaining sections use campground roads and paths with some short sections of new trail needed to create network links. This trail has the most elevation change and would be popular with cross-country skiers. It provides a trail connection between two of the park’s main beaches. The work here required both sub surface and surface rebuilding, as well as short segments of new links.
Prairie Trail -2 kms through rehabilitated grassland.
This trail segment is entirely new and is essential to creating a network loop. The trail crosses through farm fields that began the process of conversion from corn field to native prairie in 2015. Through this project the trail segment was designed and the subsurface gravel installed in late fall. Once the trail subsurface gravel settles over the winter the fine surfacing will be completed with park resources for use in the summer of 2016. The Prairie Grassland Rehabilitation Project will take a decade to achieve and interpretive signage along this trail will give trail users a window on the unfolding restored habitat.
OTC Ramping Up Regional Trail Symposiums
Trailhead Ontario - Renfrew 2016
Planning has begun for Trailhead Ontario 2016. Our hosts are Renfrew County and Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO). Both are long time Ontario Trails Council supporters, and Jason Davies from Renfrew sits on the OTC Board of Directors.The OHTO is one of 13 regional tourism organizations (RTO) in place to attract visitation to Ontario. The region is one of the largest in the Province and is located just south of Algonquin Park. They have been promoting opportunities for visitors to disconnect from the stress of a busy life, throw away the schedule and wander into the breathtaking scenery of the region.
As an organization they have acknowledged that having well established and properly maintained trails throughout their region enables visitors to wander Ontario’s Highlands in a variety of ways. Whether you wander to experience the speed and excitement of ATVing and Snowmobiling or to take in the tranquil surroundings by foot or bike, Ontario’s Highlands has the trail systems to accommodate.
All Sessions at Calabogie Peaks Resort
https://trailheadontario2016.wordpress.com/
Program Outline - Calabogie Peaks Resort
June 20, 21, 2016
| Monday | ||
| 8:30-9:00AM | Registration | Coffee Served |
| 9:00-9:15AM | Welcome remarks | Dignitaries |
| 9:15-10:00AM | Presentation | Renfrew County's Eastern Ontario Trails |
| 10:00-10:30AM | Presentation | Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization |
| 10:30-10:45AM | Break | Coffee Break |
| 10:45-11:15AM | Presentation | Petawawa - the development of our Regional Trail Association |
| 11:15-11:45AM | Presentation | Ottawa Valley Outdoor Experiences |
| 11:45-12:15PM | Presentation | Parks of the St. Lawrence |
| 12:15-1:00 PM | Lunch | |
| 1:00-2:00PM | Presentation | Updates on the Trails Act and the Ontario Trails Strategy with the Ministry of Tourism Culture and Sport |
| 2:00-2:30PM | Presentation | City of Ottawa Trails |
| 2:30-2:45PM | Break | Coffee Break |
| 2:45-3:15PM | Presentation | Trans Canada Trail Ontario |
| 3:15-3:45PM | Presentation | National Capital Commission |
| 3:45-4:15PM | Presentation | CycleON - Updates and Progress |
| 4:15-4:45PM | Presentation | Understanding and Preventing Lyme Disease |
| 4:45-5:15PM | Presentation | Sentiers Prescott Russell and Glengarry Trails |
| 5:15-6PM | Networking | Cash Bar |
| 6PM - 9PM | Dinner & Keynote Speaker | Federal Climate Change Initiatives and Trails |
| Tuesday | ||
| 8:30 – 9:00AM | Registration | Coffee Served |
| 9:00-9:15 AM | Welcome remarks | Dignitaries |
| 9:15-10AM | Presentation | Trails Risk Management - Principles |
| 10:00-10:15AM | Break | Coffee Break |
| 10:15-11:15AM | Plenary Session | Trails Risk Management - How to Say Yes to Trails |
| 11:15-12:00AM | Plenary Session | Paramedic Wilderness Rescue |
| Noon-1PM | Lunch | Networking Lunch |
| 1:00-2:00PM | Plenary Session | Water Trails - Developing trails for Use |
| 2:00-2:45PM | Plenary Session | Ottawa River-Keeper - programs and plans for development |
| 2:45-3:00PM | Break | |
| 3:00-3:30PM | Plenary Session | Hunting and Fishing Trail Use of MNRF Lands |
| 3:30-4:00PM | Plenary Session | Mattawa Trail Development |
| 4:00-4:30PM | Plenary Session | First Nation Tourism and Trails |
| 4:30PM | Wrap-up and Next Steps | Trailhead Canada 2017! |
(subject to change)
Trailhead North - Marathon
Program Outline
April 13, 14, 2016
| Wednesday | ||
| 8:30 – 9:00AM | Registration | |
| 9:00-9:30AM | Welcome remarks | Coffee Served |
| 9:30-10:30AM | Presentation | Marathon, Pic River and our Northern Trails |
| 10:30-10:45AM | Break | |
| 10:45-12:30AM | Presentation | Parks Experiences – Pukaskwa National Park and Neys Provincial |
| Presentation | Group of Seven Trail | |
| Presentation | Northern Ontario Experiences | |
| Presentation | Northern Ontario Tourism Organization | |
| 12:30-1:00 PM | Lunch | |
| 1:00 – 2:00PM | Presentation | Ministry of Tourism Culture and Sport |
| Presentation | French River Trail Development | |
| 2:00-2:30PM | Presentation | Path of the Paddle and Trail Auditing |
| 2:30-2:45PM | Break | Trans Canada Trail Ontario – Sponsor |
| 2:45-3:15PM | Presentation | Importance of Trails for Northern Ontario Tourism |
| 3:15-3:45PM | Presentation | World Class Cross Country – Destination Marathon |
| 3:45-4:15PM | Presentation | OFSC/CCSO and Snowmobile Trails |
| 4:15-4:45 PM | Presentation | OAC – Ontario Access Coalition – Places to Climb |
| 5:30-6PM | Networking | Cash Bar |
| 6PM – 9PM | Dinner & Keynote Speaker | My Experience in the Outdoors. |
| Silent Auction | ||
| Thursday | ||
| 8:30–9:00AM | Registration | Coffee Served |
| 9:00-9:15 AM | Welcome remarks | |
| 9:15-10AM | Presentation | Fundraising for Trails and Non-Profits |
| 10:00-10:15AM | Break | Coffee Break |
| 10:15-11:15 AM | Plenary Session | Hunting and Fishing Trail Use of MNRF Lands |
| 11:15-Noon | Plenary Session | Presentation: Timiskaming and Nastawgan Trails |
| Noon-1PM | Lunch | Networking Lunch |
| 1:00-2:00PM | Plenary Session | Outfitters and Tripping – How to Get North |
| 2:00-3:00PM | Plenary Session | Voyageur Trail – Developments along the Trail |
| 3:00-3:30PM | Wrap-up and Next Steps |
(subject to change)
Trailhead Georgian Bay - with GBCT!
Program Outline - Killarney Mountain Lodge
May 11, 2016
| Wednesday | ||
| 8:30 - 9:00AM | Registration | |
| 9:00-9:30AM | Welcome remarks | Coffee Served |
| 9:30-10:30AM | About The Georgian Bay Coast Trail | Sponsor |
| 10:30-10:45AM | Break | |
| 10:45-12:15AM | Presentation | Killarney Provincial Park - A Lead Partner in Development |
| Presentation | Friends of Killarney | |
| Presentation | Trail Experiences - Explorer's Edge | |
| Presentation | Auditing and Planning our Route | |
| 12:15-1:00 PM | Lunch | |
| 1:00 - 2:00PM | Presentation | Ministry of Tourism Culture and Sport |
| Presentation | Indigenous Peoples Economic Development | |
| 2:00-2:30PM | Presentation | Trail Inventories Georgian Bay Partners |
| 2:30-2:45PM | Break | Trans Canada Trail Ontario - Sponsor |
| 2:45-3:15PM | Presentation | Importance of Variety of Trails |
| 3:15-3:45PM | Presentation | Great Lakes Guardian Plant and Trail Inventory |
| 3:45-4:15PM | Presentation | Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry |
| 4:15-4:45 PM | Presentation | Relations with Local Landowners |
| 4:45 - 5:15 | Wrap-up | Thanks |
(subject to change)
Trails Talk
Join us every other Tuesday at 1pm EST for a lively half hour discussion on trail issues of importance to the trails community. We are pleased to have added an additional topic to the Agenda - see January 12th.We will be using our Google Hangout to facilitate our Trail Talks. So make sure you have a gmail account and the hangout app added to your gplus account.
Invited presenters include:
January 5th, 2016 - Kinghorn Trail Association - all about the development of this important northern trail with Kirsten Spence.
NEW - January 12th - Land Use Planning - all about securing land for trails, when, how to, and potential pitfalls and problems - with Kate Potter and Robert Orland from Orland Conservation.
January 19th, 2016 - Fundraising for Non-Profit Organizations - with Thomas Allgoewer - a half hour discussion about how to facilitate your organization goals and objectives through fundraising efforts.
February 2nd, 2016 - Edge Auditor - the program that helps you know and log in all the facts about your trail, with Niall Lobely.
February 16th, 2016 - Explorer's Edge - all about the great trails in RTO 12 with James Murphy of Explorer's Edge.
March 1, 2016 - The Georgian Bay Coast Trail - who supports it, what is happening and all about our spring community meeting in Killarney. With Luke Wassegijig and Kirsten Spence.
March 15, 2016 - Trans Canada Trail - with Jane Murphy and Al McPherson. You've heard about it, how is it progressing? How can you support it?
March 29, 2016 - Hiking, what is it? Who does it? What you need to know about community programs, and trail leadership programs - with Bill Mungall
April 12th, 2016 - Trail Building - are you interested? What is trail building all about? Who does it and the skills you need, with stories from trail builder Zane Davies.
2016 Membership Renewal Notices Out!
Thanks to these folks for their paid renewals:
Haldimand County
Thanks to these folks for their paid renewals:
Haldimand County
This past year the OTC Membership grew beyond 240 members, with over 220 being organizational supporters.
Your support of our work helps us to:
Your support of our work helps us to:
- travel to communities
- update the website
- answer the phone
- seek other funds for special projects
- write grants for members
- mitigate conflict
- guide users with a where to turn
- update the youtube, and other social media
- engage with government
- promote the design, use and management of trails
- coordinate meetings
- manage the education program(s)
Please consider supporting our work
Please consider making a donation or taking out a membership today! We rely on the generous support of the Canadian trail community to allow us to do our work.
Our Mission - to promote the preservation, management, use and development of trails.
Everyday, somewhere in Ontario we educate, support a group, lead or assist a community improving its quality of life through trails.
Ask us how we make a difference!
Thanks
Our Mission - to promote the preservation, management, use and development of trails.
Everyday, somewhere in Ontario we educate, support a group, lead or assist a community improving its quality of life through trails.Ask us how we make a difference!
Thanks
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