Ontario Trail News - Trailwise - May 11, 2017

• Celebration of Trails Week • Trailhead Events • Membership Drive    • Donate to Trails Today • Member News • Activity Updates

Trailhead Headwaters May 10, 2017!The Ontario Trails Council was pleased to present the following community awards and recognitions: Ontario Trails Builder Award to the Guelph to Goderich Rail Trail Ontario Friend of Trails to: Headwaters Community in Action Organization Ontario Friend of Trails to: Dufferin County Ontario Friend of Trails to: Citizens of Headwaters Active Transportation Team Ontario Friend of Trails to: The Hamilton Burlington Trails Council  The Ontario Trails Council recognizes the tens of thousands of volunteers, and 1,000,000's of trail users in Ontario who use trails for healthy, mind, body and soul. We thank all of you for your contribution. Deadline Extended to May 26th to Comment Ministry of Tourism,  Culture and Sport Minister 9th Floor, Hearst Block 900 Bay Street Toronto, ON M7A 2E1 Ministry of Transportation Minister 3rd Floor, Ferguson Block 77 Wellesley St W. Toronto, ON M7A 1Z8 Monday, May 8, 2017Dear Valued Cycling Partners: On April 27th, Ontario tabled the 2017 Budget. This budget returns the government to balance while continuing to make investments that make everyday life easier for people all across Ontario. We are very proud that our budget includes an investment of $50 million for commuter cycling infrastructure in 2017–18 to give Ontarians a safe and low‐cost commuting alternative between residential communities, workplaces, major transit stations and other destinations and while enhancing their safety and well-being through investments in infrastructure. This will enable people to take bikes and transit for their daily commute instead of personal vehicles, effectively reducing GHG emissions. Your advocacy contributed to the creation of #CycleON -- Ontario's cycling strategy -- which serves as a blueprint to help us create healthy, active and prosperous communities that have better cycling infrastructure and safer streets and highways. At the recent Share the Road Cycling Coalition annual Ontario Bike Summit, we reiterated our government’s commitment to implement Ontario's Cycling Strategy, #CycleON. Through #CycleON, the province is working to identify a long-term network of cycling routes across Ontario that will: Promote recreational cycling and cycling tourism; Connect municipal cycling routes and places of interest; Identify areas of provincial infrastructure that should accommodate cycling; and, Prioritize future cycling infrastructure investments on provincial highways. The draft network we’ve identified includes over 8,000km of cycling routes that connect the regions of the province – and the people that live there providing access to major communities and destinations.  We invite you to view and submit comments on the draft network at www.ontario.ca/cycling. The comment period has been extended until May 26, 2017. Over 70 per cent of Ontario’s population resides within 5km of these cycling routes. The province-wide network has the potential to enhance tourism and recreation opportunities across the province. And in urban areas, the network is also an opportunity to look at developing routes that will serve both recreational and commuter routes in the years to come. It was around this time last year that our government announced our commitment to provide $10 million under the Ontario Municipal Cycling Infrastructure program to 37 cities and towns across the province that are working to build new or improve their existing cycling infrastructure in ways that make sense locally. This includes urban, suburban and rural communities like Brampton, Niagara, Ottawa, Chatham-Kent, Kingston, and Thunder Bay among others. In 2015, we also announced an additional commitment of $15 million for routes along provincial highways so that cyclists have a connected and continuous network. The cycling investment in Budget 2017 builds on the recent cycling initiatives that the government has made. This unprecedented investment promotes cycling and walking as part of a healthy, active lifestyle while making commuter cycling easier and safer. Last month, we were pleased to introduce Ontario’s first Cycling Tourism Plan: Tour by Bike. It’s no secret that cycling tourism in Ontario is experiencing rapid growth as more people realize what a fun and healthy form of transportation cycling can be. Ontario is home to an extensive cycling and trails network that stretches across the province, connects our communities and offers unique views of our urban and rural landscapes. Through this plan, we will continue to work to increase and promote cycling as a tourism draw in Ontario communities. Tour by Bike builds on the work we began with the Tourism Action Plan and the Strategic Framework for Tourism in Ontario.   We all have the same goal. We want to continue making Ontario a safe place to cycle, and to stand out as a world-class cycling destination. Our work to date has positioned us well as we move forward with the Tour by Bike and our new commuter cycling infrastructure investment. Of course, your input and collaboration is invaluable to this process. We are excited to keep working with you, and look forward to continuing to grow cycling in Ontario together. All our best, Original signed by Eleanor McMahon Minister                           Original signed by Steven Del Duca Minister Interested in trails as part of the network? Submit your comments here - EBR Registry Number:   013-0190 Trail Specialist Training Trails Specialist Workshop When: 30 May 2017 Where: Barrie Operations Centre - 165 Ferndale Drive North, Barrie, ON Will you be attending? Register Not attending Trails Specialist Workshop The two day workshop has been designed by professionals for all levels of trail builders and enthusiasts. You will receive instruction on how to observe, detect and document potential risk resulting from poor trail design, construction and maintenance. This workshop combines in classroom theory and hands-on experiences. Participants will come away with a valuable Trails Manual and will complete a written test on key elements of the course. This course will cover: Overview of Professional Trail Building The Science of Trail Building The Art of Trail Design and Construction Environmental Impacts Liability Issues Handwork and Trail Construction Techniques Dates: May 30 & 31, 2017 Time: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm both days Location:  In Class portion: Barrie Operations Center 165 Ferndale Drive North Barrie, ON L4N 9V9 Outdoor Practical Portion: Approx 5 mins away 277 Sunnidale Rd Barrie, ON L4N 5P1 See MapCourse Cost: OPA Member: $395.50 Potential Member: $621.50 Please note: A bagged lunch is required at this course  Participants are required to have a hard hat, safety glasses, closed toe footwear (CSA rating preferred), and gloves.  It is recommended that the participant brings with them the following equipment if possible: pin flags, clinometers, Pulaskis, Mcleods and/or any other trail building tools/equipment the organization, government agency or participant intends to use for trail design, building and maintenance. The idea behind having your own tools/equipment onsite is to allow the opportunity for it to be integrated into the course and suit the specific needs/wants and desires of the participants. This course is an Ontario Trails Council approved training program.                         Best regards, Ontario Parks Association and Ontario Trails Council OFTR Membership Required to Ride in Limerick Forest The end result will be that off-road motorcyclists riding in Limerick Forest this year will require an OFTR membership in addition to being quiet, licensed, and insured.  The new requirement for OFTR club membership will position the BMA to more actively manage and maintain (and possibly expand) the single track trail system in Limerick Forest for the benefit of all riders. The United Counties of Leeds & Grenville (UCLG), owner of the Limerick Forest, has agreed to work with organizations representing off road motorcycles and all terrain vehicles on the implementation of a two year pilot program for the development, use, and management of trails in Limerick Forest. The BMA, supported by the OFTR, and the Johnstown ATV Club, supported by the Ontario Federation of All-Terrain Vehicles (OFATV), are actively working with the Forest Manager to implement the program for the 2017 and 2018 riding seasons. MORE INFORMATION>>>>>>>>> Horse Day!   Horse Day was launched in Ontario 9 years ago as a way to give communities across Ontario the opportunity to peek into the horse world – to visit facilities, maybe watch a demonstration or two, and even get to touch a horse for the first time. This year, the OEF is putting all it’s energy into supporting our accredited riding facilities in running their own Horse Day events across the Province on Saturday, June 3, 2017! With over 150 OEF accredited riding facilities across Ontario, our goal is to ensure that there is a Horse Day venue accessible to anyone wishing to attend this fantastic, family event. We want to encourage facility and association members to reach out to each other to continue this amazing opportunity to showcase the breadth of our sport through these demonstrations that have been so popular. Horse Day is for everyone – embrace the opportunity to support your local equestrian community and the sport by attending a horse day event near you – hold a horse day event if you are an OEF accredited facility, or reach out to a participating facility to show off your unique horse or discipline. A list of participating Horse Day Host Facilities will be posted May 2017. For more information about Ontario Horse Day, please contact:  Brandon Hall at b.hall@horse.on.ca or  1-877-441-7112 ext. 30 Provincial Celebration of Trails Week!  For the first time Ontario is recognizing the trails that offer so much of us so much enjoyment, by declaring a Celebration of Trails Week. Send us your event! Celebration of Trails Week is taking place in Ontario May 29 to June 4 this year. This week is designed to showcase outdoor lifestyles, recreational activity and the diversity of trails that Ontario has. Tell us all about your trail event and join us as we celebrate Ontario's Trails! Whether you paddle, ride, walk, bike, hike, climb or get fit on your favourite trail, the Celebration of Trails Week is your chance to coordinate an event to celebrate the diversity and inclusivity of Ontario's 2600+ trails! Be sure to log in your event here! Event spreadsheet. To add your event to our event calendar add it here. Be sure to also celebrate International Trails Day!At both Canadian Trails and Ontario Trails we are interested in knowing who is hosting an event as part of this celebration of trails. International Trails Day is an annual celebration of trails, trail development and the healthy lifestyle they encourage. It is celebrated each year on the first Saturday in June. Started by the American Hiking Society in 1992, trails Day has spread to encompass all forms of recreational trail usage in more than a dozen countries worldwide. It promotes public awareness of and appreciation for trails and the people who build & maintain them. List Your Canadian Event Here It promotes public awareness of and appreciation for trails and the people who build and maintain them. Builds partnerships among trail groups, businesses, and public land managers. Encourages cooperative efforts among different trail users, including hikers, bicyclists, equestrians, walkers, runners. You only have to log it in once on the national site, OTC monitors this site as part of its voluntary contribution to the national organization so we'll copy it to our inventory if it's based in Ontario! The public is encouraged to join in the celebration by attending one of the community events listed at www.internationaltrailsday.com. With content from Leisure Information Network Ontario Trails Council looking for a Strategic PlannerIn order to remain as a leading provider of trail related services to our members, the Ontario Trails Council has worked for a number of years to secure support for our revitalization. Since 2004 the OTC has worked in support of Ontario Trails and the Ontario Trails Strategy. Perhaps you have noticed that our sustainability has been noted as a deliverable of the Ontario Trails Strategy Action Plan? To that end we have worked for over a year to secure funds to retain a Strategic Business Plan Consultant. Please find an RFP for circulation to professionals in the strategic planning process you may know, as well as to groups you work with through your trails councils or committees. https://goo.gl/oPVoIY We need your input!In 2015 we secured 101 respondents to our "The Value of Trails - Measuring the Economic Impact of Trails Survey."  We've added 18 more to the 2017 updates. We have a ways to go. Click through the screen capture below to access the survey. There are many metrics to measure in determining the economic impact of trails, and tourism in just one factor. In order to accurately represent a closer economic impact of trails we are requesting your speedy response to our Call to Action for Your Input to our Value of Trails 2017 survey. With your help we will make an even stronger case for trails and the supports you require to provide a top notch experience at each of your trail destinations. We are also accepting new responses! Many Thanks! Event notice: Ride the GARTRide the Goderich-Auburn Rail Trail on June 4th to celebrate Trails Week in Ontario; meet at the trailhead on Harbour Street, Goderich at 1 p.m. for a leisurely ride. Sponsored by Active Transportation Goderich, and the Maitland Trail Association. More information - Ride the Gart Trailhead Canada - Topics Listed On-Line!Below you'll see page 7 of topics open for discussion at the event. Click through to the main website to find 7 pages of topics we are planning to explore over the event. Check the site for presenter applications you can download or complete on-line. Thanks. Be sure to check out the 7 pages of topics up for presentation. https://trailheadcanada.com/topics/ Remember to Donate! Trail Development Posting - Kitchener - links to more information! Membership Renewals - Thank-you for your Support!We wish to thank the organizations that have already completed their membership for 2017. We couldn't do our work without your continued support. Many thanks!  "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. Base HST Total 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

Ontario Trails News - Trailwise - May 4, 2017

• Celebration of Trails Week • Trailhead Events • Membership Drive    • Donate to Trails Today • Member News • Activity Updates

Watch for Flooding on Trails!Excepted from Mississauga.com  Heavy rainfall and high water over the last couple of days have certainly left a mark along the Lake Ontario and Credit River shoreline in parts of Mississauga. According to Environment Canada, it was a large and strong Texas low that brought significant rainfall to much of Southern Ontario Sunday and Monday. There were reports of flooding in some areas that experienced thunderstorms along with the heavy downpours and winds. As of 6 p.m. Monday, more than 41 mm had fallen in Toronto and more showers are expected Tuesday. But the damage had already been done in some spots like St. Lawrence Park in Port Credit. Waves along the shoreline and high water had shifted and cracked stone walkways and dislodged fencing. Parts of the popular neighbourhood waterfront trail had been taped off to pedestrians Monday. Credit Valley Conservation warns localized flooding is more common this time of year and warned the public to be careful around fast-moving water. East Don Ravine Trails Closed Excerpted from the Toronto Star - If you want to go for a spin up the Lower Don Trail, you’d better be prepared for some headaches until at least July. City officials say construction on the trail, originally slated for completion last fall, won’t be finished until July. That means a major section of the trail between Riverdale Park and Pottery Rd. remains inaccessible. “It’s a little extreme,” said cyclist Barbara Sless, standing in front of the fenced-off closure on Saturday. MORE >>>>>>>>> Town of Kincardine Bike Race for Trails The new Tour of Kincardine Cross-Town Bike Race is a chance to showcase the community trail system on two wheels. The Sunday, May 21, 2017 event will start at 10 a.m. at Kincardine's north pier and feature a 22.5km route in an entirely "intra-town system" with a variety of challenging terrain for cyclists. Organizer Shane Hotchkiss said the inaugural event started off out of his love for Kincardine Trail System. "I think they are unrecognized as a good venue for cyclists, so this event can help showcase them," said Hotchkiss. "The event route uses the trails and the best features of the town. I hope that local cyclists will discover the trail as a viable cycling option as well as use the route to challenge each other through participation in this local event." GWWRTC commenting on Cycling Strategy on the Environmental Registry Members of the Guelph Waterloo Wellington Regional Trails Committee met last week to review the Identification of the Cycling Network Phase of the Province's cycling strategy and they will be submitting recommendations on behalf of GCAT and GWWRTC.  They will discuss in more detail at the meeting on the 10th. In addition Bill Mungall, OTC Board member writes - I am making some comments on behalf of GHTC. Jennifer Juste from the City of Guelph will also be making a submission. Great to see the members of the RTC working all together on letting the province know what they need and expect from the strategy. Interested in trails as part of the network? Submit your comments here - EBR Registry Number:   013-0190 Trailhead North Nipigon! The Ontario Trails Council wishes to thank all the participants and supporters who helped make Trailhead North 2017 a big success. Since last year the Nor'wester Hiking Association, the Voyageur Trail Association, with the Township of Nipigon, have made ready 7 trails in the Nipigon Area for trail use. We wish to thank the Ontario Parks Association, Ontario Equestrian Federation, Stihl Power Equipment, as well as all the participants who took time from their schedules to learn more about trails, trail programs and education through the Trailhead North event! Trailhead Headwaters May 10, 2017! Look Who's coming to the Headwaters Trails Summit on May 10 - Register Now!  Our communities are growing and we need to grow our trails too. Recreation and outdoor spaces are vital in what makes us healthy. It's about Community Well-Being! The Summit will be an opportunity for stakeholders, interested groups, businesses and residents to come together to discuss and learn about all things Trail in Headwaters. Detailed Agenda Speaker Bios Experts are joining us from across Ontario: Rail Trail Development: with a presentation from Chris Lee who is on the Guelph to Goderich Rail Trail Committee Dufferin County Active Transportation and Trails plan (DCATT): Jay Cranstone from MMM Group and Patrick Connor from Ontario Trails Council will detail the Trails masterplan model and as it applies to Dufferin.  Regional Trail Committee Discussion: Patrick Connor of OTC with Alex Brodka- Administrator of the Hamilton Burlington Trail Council on the possible development and implementation of a Dufferin Regional Trail Committee. Economic Impact of Trail Development: Kirsten Spence - Trans Canada Trail and Park to Park Trail Association, with Patrick Connor. Detailing economic recapture tools. Developing Interpretive Signage: Implementation of Interpretive Signage with AODA Compliance Standards (TBD) Headwaters Trails Connectivity: Roundtable discussions of priorities identified by Headwaters citizens, project opportunities, and possible next steps. Cost to attend this full day event (lunch included with all tickets): $75.00 ~ Organization representatives (Trails, Municipal, Recreation, etc). This ticket also allows you to attend all sessions and profile your organization with literature handouts and/or a table display. A table will be provided and your organization promoted where possible. $50.00 ~ Ontario Trails Council members. Attendance for all sessions. $25.00 ~ General Admission: Public and non-OTC Members: Attendance for all sessions. Registration is now open. We hope to see you there! If you have any questions, or are interested in participating, please get in touch by email. Register Now! I can't make it Sincerely, Shirley Boxem Headwaters Communities in Action action@headwaterscommunities.ca 519-925-0347 Trailhead Headwaters is supported by: Ontario Trails Council meets with All of Government at Ontario Trails Coordinating Committee Meeting OFTR Membership Required to Ride in Limerick Forest The end result will be that off-road motorcyclists riding in Limerick Forest this year will require an OFTR membership in addition to being quiet, licensed, and insured.  The new requirement for OFTR club membership will position the BMA to more actively manage and maintain (and possibly expand) the single track trail system in Limerick Forest for the benefit of all riders. The United Counties of Leeds & Grenville (UCLG), owner of the Limerick Forest, has agreed to work with organizations representing off road motorcycles and all terrain vehicles on the implementation of a two year pilot program for the development, use, and management of trails in Limerick Forest. The BMA, supported by the OFTR, and the Johnstown ATV Club, supported by the Ontario Federation of All-Terrain Vehicles (OFATV), are actively working with the Forest Manager to implement the program for the 2017 and 2018 riding seasons. MORE INFORMATION>>>>>>>>> Trail Deaths on the Rise We ask all trail users to use approved trails and operate your equipment in a safe fashion. Excerpt from the St. Thomas Times-Journal April 25th, 2017.The Ontario Provincial Police has released statistics that reveal 2016/2017 was the worst in 14 years for snowmobile deaths. There were a total of 26 fatalities with 12 deaths in February alone in OPP jurisdictions. People between the ages of 45 and 64 accounted for 65 per cent of the death toll at 17. Off-road vehicle deaths were close behind with 22 fatalities, making it the highest in 10 years in 2016. The majority of the deaths were linked to alcohol and drugs or people who weren’t wearing a helmet. Water-related deaths were at a three year high in 2016 on OPP patrolled waterways with 23 deaths in 19 incidents. Seven of those incidents involved non-motorized vessels like canoes and kayaks. Nineteen of those deaths were people who were not using a Personal Floatation Device or not using one correctly. Alcohol was a factor in eight of the incidents. MORE>>>>>>>> Ride Safe - Take a Clinic Provincial Celebration of Trails Week!  For the first time Ontario is recognizing the trails that offer so much of us so much enjoyment, by declaring a Celebration of Trails Week. Send us your event! Celebration of Trails Week is taking place in Ontario May 29 to June 4 this year. This week is designed to showcase outdoor lifestyles, recreational activity and the diversity of trails that Ontario has. Tell us all about your trail event and join us as we celebrate Ontario's Trails! Whether you paddle, ride, walk, bike, hike, climb or get fit on your favourite trail, the Celebration of Trails Week is your chance to coordinate an event to celebrate the diversity and inclusivity of Ontario's 2600+ trails! Be sure to log in your event here! Event spreadsheet. To add your event to our event calendar add it here. Be sure to also celebrate International Trails Day!At both Canadian Trails and Ontario Trails we are interested in knowing who is hosting an event as part of this celebration of trails. International Trails Day is an annual celebration of trails, trail development and the healthy lifestyle they encourage. It is celebrated each year on the first Saturday in June. Started by the American Hiking Society in 1992, trails Day has spread to encompass all forms of recreational trail usage in more than a dozen countries worldwide. It promotes public awareness of and appreciation for trails and the people who build & maintain them. List Your Canadian Event Here It promotes public awareness of and appreciation for trails and the people who build and maintain them. Builds partnerships among trail groups, businesses, and public land managers. Encourages cooperative efforts among different trail users, including hikers, bicyclists, equestrians, walkers, runners. You only have to log it in once on the national site, OTC monitors this site as part of its voluntary contribution to the national organization so we'll copy it to our inventory if it's based in Ontario! The public is encouraged to join in the celebration by attending one of the community events listed at www.internationaltrailsday.com. With content from Leisure Information Network Ontario Trails Council looking for a Strategic PlannerIn order to remain as a leading provider of trail related services to our members, the Ontario Trails Council has worked for a number of years to secure support for our revitalization. Since 2004 the OTC has worked in support of Ontario Trails and the Ontario Trails Strategy. Perhaps you have noticed that our sustainability has been noted as a deliverable of the Ontario Trails Strategy Action Plan? To that end we have worked for over a year to secure funds to retain a Strategic Business Plan Consultant. Please find an RFP for circulation to professionals in the strategic planning process you may know, as well as to groups you work with through your trails councils or committees. https://goo.gl/oPVoIY We need your input!In 2015 we secured 101 respondents to our "The Value of Trails - Measuring the Economic Impact of Trails Survey."  We've added 18 more to the 2017 updates. We have a ways to go. Click through the screen capture below to access the survey. There are many metrics to measure in determining the economic impact of trails, and tourism in just one factor. In order to accurately represent a closer economic impact of trails we are requesting your speedy response to our Call to Action for Your Input to our Value of Trails 2017 survey. With your help we will make an even stronger case for trails and the supports you require to provide a top notch experience at each of your trail destinations. We are also accepting new responses! Many Thanks! Event notice: Ride the GARTRide the Goderich-Auburn Rail Trail on June 4th to celebrate Trails Week in Ontario; meet at the trailhead on Harbour Street, Goderich at 1 p.m. for a leisurely ride. Sponsored by Active Transportation Goderich, and the Maitland Trail Association. More information - Ride the Gart Trailhead Canada - Topics Listed On-Line!Below you'll see page 7 of topics open for discussion at the event. Click through to the main website to find 7 pages of topics we are planning to explore over the event. Check the site for presenter applications you can download or complete on-line. Thanks. Be sure to check out the 7 pages of topics up for presentation. https://trailheadcanada.com/topics/ Remember to Donate! Trail Development Posting - Kitchener - links to more information! Membership Renewals - Thank-you for your Support!We wish to thank the organizations that have already completed their membership for 2017. We couldn't do our work without your continued support. Many thanks!  "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. Base HST Total 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

Ontario Trails News - Trailwise - April 20, 2017

• Celebration of Trails Week • Trailhead Events • Membership Drive    • Donate to Trails Today • Member News • Activity Updates

C2E Trails Meeting - professional trails practices shared.On April 19th, Cootes to Escarpment Park Project held a management practices forum for trail development. All presentations will be posted on line at: http://www.cootestoescarpmentpark.ca/ Ontario Trails Council's Patrick Connor spoke to  “Achieving Trail Harmony; How Do We Reach a Balance Between Community Need, Recreational Use and Environmental Protection?” In a competitive environment where leisure time is at a premium, environments and species are at risk from development pressures, people and organizations own and often have contrary management plans, governance systems, or even ethics of use; this session will detail the why and how to reduce conflict in order to have a harmonious trail - trail use - environment enrichment process. “Lessons from Local Data” This presentation looked at some of the data collected through the Hamilton Burlington Trails Council's Trail Use Survey (2015-2016), which collected over 18 000 trail counts and over 1000 user feedback surveys. Alex Brodka discussed how this information is driving local projects and where HBTC are looking for best practices that might help us overcome challenges, identified through the survey, to accommodate trail users in the region. “Managing Trail Users in the Toronto Region: Lessons Learned from TRCA” Deanna Cheriton (Supervisor, Greenspace Conservation, TRCA and Steve Roesch, Coordinator, Greenspace Conservation, TRCA) With over 17,000 ha of greenspace in Canada’s largest city region, TRCA is well versed with trying to negotiate various interests in accessing and using green spaces. The TRCA session highlighted some of the successes and challenges TRCA has with managing users on the over 600 km of permitted trails in TRCA green space in the Toronto Region, and suggest some techniques for minimizing user conflict. “Credit Valley Conservation’s Lands Monitoring Program: From Property Monitoring to Visitor Management” Kate Burgess (Conservation Land Planner, CVC), Scott Cafarella (Junior Conservation Lands Planner, CVC) and Olivia Bakowski (junior Conservation Lands Planner, CVC) kate, Scott and Olivia spoke on Credit Valley Conservation’s Lands Monitoring Program (LMP) as an adaptive management tool designed supporting land planning decisions by making by collecting usable information on conservation area visitors and property conditions. The session provided an overview of the tools and methods LMP uses to collect data that informs visitor management. Conducting a detailed trail inventory is one example of how LMP has collected property information to support trail projects that address sources of conflict, mitigate environmental degradation, facilitate consultation with accessibility advisory committees and identify barriers to access. Many thanks to C2E and Peter Kelly of the C2E for arranging and involving these skilled people in the event. For more informaiton e-mail Peter at: pkelly@rbg.ca  Provincial Celebration of Trails Week!  For the first time Ontario is recognizing the trails that offer so much of us so much enjoyment, by declaring a Celebration of Trails Week. Send us your event! Celebration of Trails Week is taking place in Ontario May 29 to June 4 this year. This week is designed to showcase outdoor lifestyles, recreational activity and the diversity of trails that Ontario has. Tell us all about your trail event and join us as we celebrate Ontario's Trails! Whether you paddle, ride, walk, bike, hike, climb or get fit on your favourite trail, the Celebration of Trails Week is your chance to coordinate an event to celebrate the diversity and inclusivity of Ontario's 2600+ trails! Be sure to log in your event here! Event spreadsheet. To add your event to our event calendar add it here. Be sure to also celebrate International Trails Day!At both Canadian Trails and Ontario Trails we are interested in knowing who is hosting an event as part of this celebration of trails. International Trails Day is an annual celebration of trails, trail development and the healthy lifestyle they encourage. It is celebrated each year on the first Saturday in June. Started by the American Hiking Society in 1992, trails Day has spread to encompass all forms of recreational trail usage in more than a dozen countries worldwide. It promotes public awareness of and appreciation for trails and the people who build & maintain them. List Your Canadian Event Here It promotes public awareness of and appreciation for trails and the people who build and maintain them. Builds partnerships among trail groups, businesses, and public land managers. Encourages cooperative efforts among different trail users, including hikers, bicyclists, equestrians, walkers, runners. You only have to log it in once on the national site, OTC monitors this site as part of its voluntary contribution to the national organization so we'll copy it to our inventory if it's based in Ontario! The public is encouraged to join in the celebration by attending one of the community events listed at www.internationaltrailsday.com. With content from Leisure Information Network   Ontario Trails Council looking for a Strategic PlannerIn order to remain as a leading provider of trail related services to our members, the Ontario Trails Council has worked for a number of years to secure support for our revitalization. Since 2004 the OTC has worked in support of Ontario Trails and the Ontario Trails Strategy. Perhaps you have noticed that our sustainability has been noted as a deliverable of the Ontario Trails Strategy Action Plan? To that end we have worked for over a year to secure funds to retain a Strategic Business Plan Consultant. Please find an RFP for circulation to professionals in the strategic planning process you may know, as well as to groups you work with through your trails councils or committees. https://goo.gl/oPVoIY We need your input!In 2015 we secured 101 respondents to our "The Value of Trails - Measuring the Economic Impact of Trails Survey."  We've added 18 more to the 2017 updates. We have a ways to go. Click through the screen capture below to access the survey. There are many metrics to measure in determining the economic impact of trails, and tourism in just one factor. In order to accurately represent a closer economic impact of trails we are requesting your speedy response to our Call to Action for Your Input to our Value of Trails 2017 survey. With your help we will make an even stronger case for trails and the supports you require to provide a top notch experience at each of your trail destinations. We are also accepting new responses! Many Thanks! Trailhead North Nipigon! Trail Training and Hike Leader Training added to ProgramJoin us in Nipigon as we present another symposium with enriched and regional content geared to the north! 2017 Program As at 3/8/2017 Program content subject to change based on availability. Trailhead Headwaters May 10, 2017!Posted by HCIA on Wednesday, March 15, 2017 · Leave a Comment  HCIA Trails/CHATT (Citizens of Headwaters for Active Transportation Team) will again be partnering with the Ontario Trails Council (OTC) to host a Trails Summit.  The OTC has a wonderful track record of hosting and managing Trailhead events.  This event to be supported by our partners at the County of Dufferin, The Town of Mono, and Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health. The Summit will be an opportunity for stakeholders, interested groups and residents to come together and discuss all things Trail. What has happened since the first summit in 2009? Given our growing population and identification of Well-Being issues in our latest Well-Being Report, what are the Trail priorities now? Trail experts are joining us from across Ontario: Rail Trail Development: with a presentation from Chris Lee who is on the Guelph to Goderich Rail Trail Committee Dufferin County Active Transportation and Trails plan (DCATT): Jay Cranstone from MMM Group and Patrick Connor from Ontario Trails Council will detail the Trails masterplan model and as it applies to Dufferin. Regional Trail Committee Discussion: Patrick Connor of OTC with Alex Brodka- Administrator of the Hamilton Burlington Trail Council on the possible development and implementation of a Dufferin Regional Trail Committee. Economic Impact of Trail Development: Kirsten Spence – formerly of the Trans Canada Trail and Park to Park Trail Association, with Patrick Connor. Detailing economic recapture tools. Developing Interpretive Signage: Implementation of Interpretive Signage with AODA Compliance Standards (TBD) Headwaters Trails Connectivity: Roundtable discussions of priorities identified by Headwaters citizens, project opportunities, and possible next steps. Headwaters Trails Summit Date: Wednesday May 10, 2017, 9:00am -4:00pm Registration 8:30 am with light breakfast and coffee provided Lunch provided with a walk on the local Trails weather permitting. Location: Monora Park Pavilion, 500 Monora Park Drive, Mono, ON L9W 0E1 Cost to attend this full day event (lunch included with all tickets): $75.00 ~ Organization representatives (Trails, Municipal, Recreation, etc). This ticket also allows you to attend all sessions and profile your organization with literature handouts and/or a table display. A table will be provided and your organization promoted where possible. $50.00 ~ Ontario Trails Council members. Attendance for all sessions. $25.00 ~ General Admission: Public and non-OTC Members: Attendance for all sessions. If you want to participate in the development of this event please contact us. REGISTER     Event notice: Ride the GARTRide the Goderich-Auburn Rail Trail on June 4th to celebrate Trails Week in Ontario; meet at the trailhead on Harbour Street, Goderich at 1 p.m. for a leisurely ride. Sponsored by Active Transportation Goderich, and the Maitland Trail Association. More information - Ride the Gart Trailhead Canada - Topics Listed On-Line!Below you'll see page 7 of topics open for discussion at the event. Click through to the main website to find 7 pages of topics we are planning to explore over the event. Check the site for presenter applications you can download or complete on-line. Thanks. Be sure to check out the 7 pages of topics up for presentation. https://trailheadcanada.com/topics/ Remember to Donate! Trail Development Posting - Kitchener - links to more information! Membership Renewals - Thank-you for your Support!We wish to thank the organizations that have already completed their membership for 2017. We couldn't do our work without your continued support. Many thanks!    "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.   Base HST Total 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