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

ontario highlands tourism organization
• Trail Management • Trailhead Events • Membership Drive 
  • Donate to Trails Today • Member News • Activity Updates 

Updates from Around Ontario Trails!

Nickel City's largest natural playground, Kivi Park open for fun

Snowshoeing, hiking and dog walking all available
Beautiful Kivi Park, located at 4472 Long Lake Rd., is now open for snowshoeing, hiking, walking, fatbiking and dog walking. Image: KiviPark.com
 Kivi Park is now open for snowshoeing, hiking, walking, fatbiking and dog walking.
Kivi Park is located at 4472 Long Lake Rd. It was born out of the demolition of the defunct Long Lake Public School when Sudburian Lily Fielding donated land to the city this past summer. At 300 acres, Kivi Park is the city's largest park — 23 times larger than Bell Park, in fact.
The park provides public access to Crown land leading to three lakes – Crowley Lake, Linton Lake and Camp Lake – and provides a city connection to Killarney Provincial Park.
Thanks to the work of more than 100 volunteers, as well as the talents and equipment of Pioneer Construction Ltd., the park marks a dramatic expansion to the existing sports facilities in Greater Sudbury.


Explore LaCloche P.P



Thanks JustaBitFurther!

Watch our Twitter for Tons of Trail Information!



Family Day Trail Events and More!
Wye Marsh



  • Snowshoe Ecotours - January 14th, 21st & 28th 2017
    Experience areas of the Wye Marsh that are otherwise not open to the general visiting public! After a brief lesson on the art of snowshoeing, you will head out in search of the many mysteries that animal tracks & signs present while being followed by hungry chickadees that like to eat right out of your hand! Your Naturalist guide will teach you how to identify trees in the winter and interpret the symphony of bird songs overhead. You will then have an opportunity to warm up by the fire at Freshet's Creek while enjoying some roasted bannock & hot Cedar tea!
  • Winter Pursuits for Kids! Saturdays Jan. 21-Feb.11 2017
    Participants will be given opportunities to learn through exploring nature! Exclusively run outdoors, this program will focus on embracing all that winter has to offer! From snowshoe obstacle courses & bannock roasting to shelter building & animal tracking, participants will learn to embrace winter - after all, there is no such thing as bad weather only bad clothing!
  • Annual General Meeting Jan 28th at 1pm
    Join the Wye Marsh for their Annual General Meeting at 1pm. Hear all about the successes of 2016 and learn about plans for the future. New this year we've got a special guest speaker to give you a History of the Wye Marsh presentation.
  • Marsh by Moonlight Snowshoe Experience February 4th, 11th and 19th 6:30-8:30pm
    Join us for this new and exciting opportunity to experience nature at night!


Hearst Winter Carnival from Ontario Travel


Come enjoy the winter activities that characterize Hearst: A mega outdoor boot hockey tournament, ice sculpture, dog sleigh rides, outdoor curling challenge, snowmobile and car rally tube rides pulled by horse, biathlon-running and snowshoeing, line dancing and rock band tributes!

EVENT DATES:

Feb-17-2017 to Feb-19-2017

ADMISSION:

Free
Price Details: Prices vary according to each activity.


Family Day - Northumberland
Ontario Family Day is February 20, 2017 and is the 3rd Monday in February each year. Escape for the weekend to Northumberland and enjoy quality family time in the great outdoors:
    Toboganning on Northumberland's Hilly Terrain
                 
Festivities and Activities
Family Day celebrations take place in Cobourg centering around their outdoor skating rink just a block south of King Street and right beside the Millstone Bakery where you can warm up with a hot chocolate and nibbles.    The Keeler Centre in Colborne will have their annual skate on Family Day, too.
Port Hope has lined up swimming, skating, crafts and gym challenges at two of their Parks and Recreation Centres.


Algonquin College Trail Education Program - Trail Planning Module Begins !

algonquin on-line education

trail planning program


Trailhead Hastings!



Get Outside and Embrace Winter in Ontario
January 19, 2017
Many Ontario Parks Offer Family Fun All Year RoundWinter has arrived, but that doesn't mean staying indoors until spring. Ontario's provincial parks continue to offer many activities this time of year, with more than 25 parks open all winter long. So bundle up, get outside and enjoy the crisp air and quiet forests.

Here are five ways to take part in winter fun in Ontario's provincial parks:

Learn something new
Ever heard of winter camping? Try it! Frontenac offers winter camping workshops to teach you all the basics - from trip planning to equipment details and safety.

Eat what you catch
Try your hand at ice fishing at Sibbald Point, Windy Lake or Silent Lake Provincial Parks.  No equipment? Windy Lake has an ice fishing kit you can borrow. Just be sure you have a valid fishing licence and outdoors card, and ensure you follow the rules of ice fishing in Ontario's parks.

Skate through the woods
Glide through the woods at MacGregor Point and Arrowhead Provincial Parks where summer campground loops become skate trails. Visit MacGregor Point at night when the outdoor lights come on, making an evening skate truly magical.

Stay active
There are lots of ways to stay active this winter in Ontario's provincial parks. Grab a friend or the family and go for a hike through Presqu'ile Provincial Park.  Once the snow accumulates, many parks also offer snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or tobogganing.

Book a cozy cabin
Stay warm and toasty in a cabin at Quetico or Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, or enjoy a trailside yurt at Pinery or Algonquin Provincial Park.

Reserve mid-week for the best availability!

Remember, winter outdoor activities always depend on the weather, so check park conditions before you leave home and dress appropriately.

QUICK FACTSMore than 450 kilometers of cross-country ski trails are offered this winter in 19 Ontario Parks.
Ontario has more than 330 provincial parks, which cover more than 8 million hectares — an area larger than the entire province of New Brunswick.

In 2016, Ontario’s provincial parks received more than 10 million visits from people around the world and brought in over $82 million in revenue, which supports jobs and businesses across the province.


MTCS Community Recreation Grant FundingOntario is now accepting applications for the Ontario Sport and Recreation Communities Fund (OSRCF) 2017–18. OSRCF is a grant program that supports the government’s vision to enable people in communities across Ontario to lead healthy, active lives. The fund increases opportunities for participation in sport and recreation, supports implementation of physical literacy as a foundation for lifelong physical activity and strengthens the community sport and recreation sector.

The deadline to apply for the Ontario Sport and Recreation Communities Fund 2017–18 is February 1, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. EST. Full details, including who’s eligible and how to apply, are available through Grants Ontario, the providers in your area.


Federal Student Experience Grant FundingThe 2017 Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) application period for employers is now open.
EXTENDED TO FEB 3, 2017!
Canada Summer Jobs is a Government of Canada initiative. It provides funding for not-for-profit organizations, public sector employers and small businesses with 50 or fewer full-time employees to create summer jobs for students between the ages of 15 and 30.

The application form as well as the applicant guide is currently available at www.canada.ca/canada-summer-jobs. You can submit your application online, by mail or in person at any Service Canada Centre. For a better understanding of the Canada Summer Jobs program including key tips to apply, please watch this YouTube video: https://youtube/SfMoLhkgjU8

We encourage you to submit your 2017 application online. By doing so, you will benefit from a fast, easy-to-use, and secure way of applying as you will:
  • have access to the Canada Summer Jobs application 24/7, from any location, allowing you to complete it at your convenience;
  • ensure your application is received immediately by Service Canada;
  • receive an instant acknowledgement confirming that your application has been received; and,
  • avoid postal delays. 
There are two systems available to enable you to apply online:
  1. Grants and Contributions Online Services (GCOS): If you already have a GCOS account, please use this online platform to submit an online application; or
  2. CSJ online application form.
For more information:
Clickwww.canada.ca/canada-summer-jobs
Call: 1-800-935-5555 (ATS: 1-800-926-9105)
Visit: a Service Canada Centre
CSJ presentation: https://youtube/SfMoLhkgjU8


Use the OFSC Trail Guide this season!
Use the trail guide for the best accuracy in open and closed trails this season.



Trailhead Canada - Save the date!


Trails Tourism Integration Underway

Based on your feedback we are making improvments, areas include such things as:
  • having an event map
  • self directed trail or event edits
  • mapping and maps
  • guided services listings
  • improved weather reporting
  • improved trip planning with printout
  • adding trails for folks with pets to cater to the traveler with pets
  • add trekking and other unique experiences
  • re-brand off-road cycling as mountain biking, add fat-biking as a specialty
  • space for local content
  • improved site search functionality
  • more links across RTO's
  • improved forms with additional categories
  • more support route content like Wine or Arts Routes
  • event to trail linkages on trail content pages
  • cms capability to red flag broken links
  • more! trails!
We appreciate the feedback from all the marketing and branding staffs we have worked with and all the suggestions for improvement. Thank- you


Membership Renewals - Thank-you for your Support!We wish to thank the following organizations that have already completed their membership for 2017. We couldn't do our work without your continued support. Many thanks! Renew Today!


join ontario trails"The OTC provides us with the ability to communicate and collaborate with industry stakeholders, professionals and advocates. It also provides us with the tools to develop our own capacities, skills and networks. As well, it is important to back to the OTC and trail communities in our province.
 Being an OTC member allows us to benefit from the knowledge of other members through education and professional development opportunities such as the Trailhead Ontario conference, and through professional networking. The OTC is the influential body that will help guide and shape the political, professional and physical landscape of trails in Ontario. Joining the OTC provides an opportunity to be part of this process: to both contribute and gain knowledge in a community of passionate, like-minded individuals and organizations."
 - Damian Bradley, Cycling advocate and Developer Guelph Regional Trails Council


Membership Benefits
INFORMATION AND FUNDING
  • OTC Trails and Event page representation
  • Representation on OTC trails maps
  • Social Media represents you to 60,000+ people
  • Fund Development through grant writing, grant support
ACCESS AND INFLUENCE
  • Connectivity to the Ministry of Tourism Culture and Sport
  • Leadership at the Ontario Trails Coordinating Committee
  • Office services and networking support
BEST PRACTICES
  • Partnership Support and Knowledge exchange
  • Access to Professional Development sessions
  • Tourism Practices, Trails Tort Reform, Trail Workshops
TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
  • Access to Trail Insurance Broker
  • Option on registration in Trillium Trail Network
  • Local, regional or provincial User conflict resolution

2017 MEMBERSHIP FORM - PDF     2017 MEMBERSHIP FORM - WORD DOC

CATEGORIES
Become a "Friend of Trails"
  • Savings on conference/seminar registration
  • Monthly e-bulletins
  • Access to OTC trails database
  • Great gift price!
  • Savings on trail literature/maps
$26.52 + $3.45 = $29.97 (includes 13% HST)
Benefits to Student
  • Editions of the OTC newsletter Trailwise
  • Access to OTC trails information
  • Conference and selected literature savings
  • * must provide student verification
$21.21 + $2.75 = $23.96 (includes 13% HST)

Our members include municipalities, conservation authorities, parks,
trail management groups, trail clubs, trail user groups, health units
and other trail-related supporting organizations.
BaseHSTTotal
Small Non-profit,
Small Organizations
$109.27$14.20$123.47
Conservation Authorities,
Medium Municipalities,
Counties, Regional
Tourism Organizations
$273.18$35.51$308.69
Municipalities,
Provincial Level
Organizations
>5000 users
$819.54$106.54$926.0

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 Communities

August 9, 2016

Ontario Sport and Recreation Communities Fund Increasing Opportunities for Ontarians

Ontario 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

  • Since 2013, the Ontario Sport and Recreation Communities Fund has supported over 360 projects across the province.
  • Now in its fourth year, the Ontario Sport and Recreation Communities Fund has invested more than $28.8 million since the program was launched.
  • In 2016–17, Ontario Sport and Recreation Communities Fund projects are expected to reach over 220,000 people.
  • The Ontario Sport and Recreation Communities Fund supports Game ON – The OntarioGovernment’s Sport Plan, which aims to make opportunities available for all Ontarians to get involved in organized sport; the Healthy Kids Strategy, which is aimed at reducing childhood obesity; and the Stepping Up Framework, which aims to improve children's health and well-being.
ontario trails member benefits

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!
ontario trails service request
ontario trails service request

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!

ADD YOUR TRAIL

trailhead ontario

Join Us for Trailhead Ontario June 19-21!
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
Monday
8:30-9:00AMRegistrationCoffee Served
9:00-9:15AMWelcome remarksDignitaries
9:15-10:00AMPresentationRenfrew County withAlgonquin to Adirondack Trail
10:00-10:30AMPresentationOntario's Highlands Tourism Organization
10:30-10:45AMBreakCoffee Break
10:45-11:15AMPresentationPetawawa - the development of our Regional Trail Association
11:15-11:45AMPresentationOttawa Valley Outdoor Experiences
11:45-12:15PMPresentationParks of the St. Lawrence
12:15-1:30 PMLunch
1:00-1:30PMPresentationOntario Trails Council AGM (Members Only Please)
1:30-2:15PMPresentationUpdates on the Trails Act and the Ontario Trails Strategy with the Ministry of Tourism Culture and Sport
2:15-2:45PMPresentationOntario Federation of Agriculture
2:45-3:00PMBreak
3:15-3:45PMPresentationFirst Nation Tourism and Trails
3:45-4:15PMPresentationTrans Canada Trail
4:15-4:45PMPresentationUnderstanding andPreventing Lyme Disease
4:45-5:15PMPresentationSentiers Prescott Russell andGlengarry Trails
5:15-6PMNetworkingCash Bar
6PM - 9PMDinner & Keynote SpeakerTBD
Tuesday
8:30 – 9:00AMRegistrationCoffee Served
9:00-9:15 AMWelcome remarksDignitaries - Madawaska Valley
9:15-9:45AMPresentationTownship of Madawaska Valley Trail Developments
10:00-10:30AMPlenary SessionPrinciples of Trail Risk Management, with Jeff Jackson
10:30-10:45AMCoffee Break
10:45-11:30AMPlenary SessionTrails Risk Management - How to Say Yes to Trails, with Jeff Jackson
Noon-1PMLunchNetworking Lunch
1:00-2:00PMPlenary SessionWater Trails - Developing trails for Use
2:00-2:45PMPlenary SessionOttawa River-Keeper - programs and plans for development
2:45-3:00PMBreak
3:00-3:30PMPlenary SessionIntegrated Trails Tourism Project
3:30-4:00PMPlenary SessionMattawa Trail Development
4:00-4:30PMPlenary SessionDeveloping Horse Trails
4:30PMWrap-up and Next StepsTrailhead 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

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 Thankshappy new year from Christmas Stock ImagesIt'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

ontario trails coordinating committee action plan

Trail User Survey 2014

ontario trails user survey 2014


OTC Supports Communities Developing Trails!


Sandbanks Provincial Park - Trail Development

sandbanks provncial park
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.
ontario parks sandbanks provincial park hikers on a trail
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


ontario's highlands tourism organization logoPlanning 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.

renfrew county logoAs 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  
8:30-9:00AMRegistrationCoffee Served
9:00-9:15AMWelcome remarksDignitaries
9:15-10:00AMPresentationRenfrew County's Eastern Ontario Trails
10:00-10:30AMPresentationOntario's Highlands Tourism Organization
10:30-10:45AMBreakCoffee Break
10:45-11:15AMPresentationPetawawa - the development of our Regional Trail Association
11:15-11:45AMPresentationOttawa Valley Outdoor Experiences
11:45-12:15PMPresentationParks of the St. Lawrence
12:15-1:00 PMLunch 
1:00-2:00PMPresentationUpdates on the Trails Act and the Ontario Trails Strategy with the Ministry of Tourism Culture and Sport
2:00-2:30PMPresentationCity of Ottawa Trails
2:30-2:45PMBreakCoffee Break
2:45-3:15PMPresentationTrans Canada Trail Ontario
3:15-3:45PMPresentationNational Capital Commission
3:45-4:15PMPresentationCycleON - Updates and Progress
4:15-4:45PMPresentationUnderstanding and Preventing Lyme Disease
4:45-5:15PMPresentationSentiers Prescott Russell and Glengarry Trails
5:15-6PMNetworkingCash Bar
6PM - 9PMDinner & Keynote SpeakerFederal Climate Change Initiatives and Trails
   
Tuesday  
8:30 – 9:00AMRegistrationCoffee Served
9:00-9:15 AMWelcome remarksDignitaries
9:15-10AMPresentationTrails Risk Management - Principles
10:00-10:15AMBreakCoffee Break
10:15-11:15AMPlenary SessionTrails Risk Management - How to Say Yes to Trails
11:15-12:00AMPlenary SessionParamedic Wilderness Rescue
Noon-1PMLunchNetworking Lunch
1:00-2:00PMPlenary SessionWater Trails - Developing trails for Use
2:00-2:45PMPlenary SessionOttawa River-Keeper - programs and plans for development
2:45-3:00PMBreak 
3:00-3:30PMPlenary SessionHunting and Fishing Trail Use of MNRF Lands
3:30-4:00PMPlenary SessionMattawa Trail Development
4:00-4:30PMPlenary SessionFirst Nation Tourism and Trails
4:30PMWrap-up and Next StepsTrailhead Canada 2017!

(subject to change)


Trailhead North - Marathon 


 

Program Outline 

April 13, 14, 2016 

 
Wednesday  
8:30 – 9:00AMRegistration 
9:00-9:30AMWelcome remarksCoffee Served
9:30-10:30AMPresentationMarathon, Pic River and our Northern Trails
10:30-10:45AMBreak 
10:45-12:30AMPresentationParks Experiences – Pukaskwa National Park and Neys Provincial
 PresentationGroup of Seven Trail
 PresentationNorthern Ontario Experiences
 PresentationNorthern Ontario Tourism Organization
12:30-1:00 PMLunch 
1:00 – 2:00PMPresentationMinistry of Tourism Culture and Sport
 PresentationFrench River Trail Development
2:00-2:30PMPresentationPath of the Paddle and Trail Auditing
2:30-2:45PMBreakTrans Canada Trail Ontario – Sponsor
2:45-3:15PMPresentationImportance of Trails for Northern Ontario Tourism
3:15-3:45PMPresentationWorld Class Cross Country – Destination Marathon
3:45-4:15PMPresentationOFSC/CCSO and Snowmobile Trails
4:15-4:45 PMPresentationOAC – Ontario Access Coalition – Places to Climb
5:30-6PMNetworkingCash Bar
6PM – 9PMDinner & Keynote SpeakerMy Experience in the Outdoors.
 Silent Auction 
   
Thursday  
8:30–9:00AMRegistrationCoffee Served
9:00-9:15 AMWelcome remarks 
9:15-10AMPresentationFundraising for Trails and Non-Profits
10:00-10:15AMBreakCoffee Break
10:15-11:15 AMPlenary SessionHunting and Fishing Trail Use of MNRF Lands
11:15-NoonPlenary SessionPresentation: Timiskaming and Nastawgan Trails
Noon-1PMLunchNetworking Lunch
1:00-2:00PMPlenary SessionOutfitters and Tripping – How to Get North
2:00-3:00PMPlenary SessionVoyageur Trail – Developments along the Trail
3:00-3:30PMWrap-up and Next Steps 

(subject to change)



Trailhead Georgian Bay - with GBCT!


georgian bay coast trail
 

Program Outline - Killarney Mountain Lodge

May 11, 2016 

 

Wednesday  
8:30 - 9:00AMRegistration 
9:00-9:30AMWelcome remarksCoffee Served
9:30-10:30AMAbout The Georgian Bay Coast TrailSponsor
10:30-10:45AMBreak 
10:45-12:15AMPresentationKillarney Provincial Park - A Lead Partner in Development
 PresentationFriends of Killarney
 PresentationTrail Experiences - Explorer's Edge
 PresentationAuditing and Planning our Route
12:15-1:00 PMLunch 
1:00 - 2:00PMPresentationMinistry of Tourism Culture and Sport
 PresentationIndigenous Peoples Economic Development
2:00-2:30PMPresentationTrail Inventories Georgian Bay Partners
2:30-2:45PMBreakTrans Canada Trail Ontario - Sponsor
2:45-3:15PMPresentationImportance of Variety of Trails
3:15-3:45PMPresentationGreat Lakes Guardian Plant and Trail Inventory
3:45-4:15PMPresentationMinistry of Natural Resources and Forestry
4:15-4:45 PMPresentationRelations with Local Landowners
4:45 - 5:15Wrap-upThanks

(subject to change)


Trails Talk

man using megaphone to call ducks

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

haldimand county outdoor adventures
haldimand county beaches, parks and outdoors

This past year the OTC Membership grew beyond 240 members, with over 220 being organizational supporters.

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.

folks walking a trail carrying a basket of apples
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