"Lambton County could soon be home to Ontario's first working industrial heritage conservation district.
A county council standing committee voted today to back creation of the district covering historic oil fields straddling Oil Springs and Enniskillen Township.
Under the Ontario Heritage Act, the district would give the two local councils power to preserve important physical features — such as jerker lines and pump houses — remaining from the the birth of North America's oil industry.
The proposal goes to county council Nov. 24."
For trails in the area see: http://www.ontariotrailsmap.com/ontariotrails.html?closesttown=Sarnia
http://www.ontariotrailsmap.com/ontariotrails.html?closesttown=Petrolia
http://www.ontariotrailsmap.com/ontariotrails.html?closesttown=OilSprings
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. Be sure to follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OntarioTrails Donations and Memberships always appreciated! https://www.ontariotrails.on.ca/content/support/join-ontario-trails-council
Friday, November 19, 2010
It's all about balance, says riding school vet
"Everything is possible with a soft, balanced seat."
Dr Gerd Heuschmann, head veterinarian of the German National Riding School, reiterated this mantra many times during the annual "Balance in Motion" Equine Symposium at the University of Guelph Kemptville Campus, in Ontario, Canada.
Dr Gerd Heuschmann explains his training techniques to demo rider Lauren Mulrenin, a certificate student at University of Guelph-Kemptville Campus and her thoroughbred horse Finn. © Helen MacGregor
The symposium was hosted by the students in the first year of the Bachelor of Bio-Resource Management degree programme in equine management as part of their event management course."
For a complete list of riding opportunities in Ontario see: http://www.ontariotrails.on.ca/trail-activities/equestrian/
Dr Gerd Heuschmann, head veterinarian of the German National Riding School, reiterated this mantra many times during the annual "Balance in Motion" Equine Symposium at the University of Guelph Kemptville Campus, in Ontario, Canada.
Dr Gerd Heuschmann explains his training techniques to demo rider Lauren Mulrenin, a certificate student at University of Guelph-Kemptville Campus and her thoroughbred horse Finn. © Helen MacGregor
The symposium was hosted by the students in the first year of the Bachelor of Bio-Resource Management degree programme in equine management as part of their event management course."
For a complete list of riding opportunities in Ontario see: http://www.ontariotrails.on.ca/trail-activities/equestrian/
Thursday, November 18, 2010
YorkRegion Article: First steps in pathway to link pond, park
"A pathway connecting Toogood Pond and Bob Hunter Memorial Park is in the works as part of Markham's cycling and pathways and trails master plans.
The project has evolved from a multi-use pathway connecting the western and eastern reaches within the Milne Dam Conservation Park to extend west-east from Toogood Pond to the Rouge Park trails and the crossings of the Rouge River.
'It's a long route with multiple interests,' the town's director of engineering, Alan Brown, said.
He said where the pathway would end at Bob Hunter park and any property acquisition will be looked at later.
Deputy Mayor Jack Heath described the project as 'one of the most exciting things' council will work on next year."
The project has evolved from a multi-use pathway connecting the western and eastern reaches within the Milne Dam Conservation Park to extend west-east from Toogood Pond to the Rouge Park trails and the crossings of the Rouge River.
'It's a long route with multiple interests,' the town's director of engineering, Alan Brown, said.
He said where the pathway would end at Bob Hunter park and any property acquisition will be looked at later.
Deputy Mayor Jack Heath described the project as 'one of the most exciting things' council will work on next year."
GuelphMercury.com - Life - Teens take ‘canoe trip on wheels’
"Multi-day canoe trips and more modest overnight bicycle trips have long been staples offered to students in the outdoor education program at Centennial Collegiate Vocational Institute. However, teachers Paul Denoon and Wade Schwark recognized the timing was right to ratchet up the time spent on bicycles.
In previous years, Denoon said, a rental truck carrying all necessary camping gear would meet the students for the evening. It was agreed this year — to provide the additional satisfaction gained from independent travel — the students would pull all the required gear for three days and two nights of cycling. “It is the equivalent of a canoe trip on wheels,” Denoon said. Cargo trailers would be the beasts of burden.
Katie Gad, another Centennial teacher, with the inspirational off-site Community Environmental Leadership Program known as CELP, referred her colleagues to Wike Trailers on Regal Road in Guelph."
For more information on cycling trails in Ontario see: http://www.ontariotrailsmap.com/ontariotrails.html?cat=6&icon=cyclingroadsandpaths.png#
In previous years, Denoon said, a rental truck carrying all necessary camping gear would meet the students for the evening. It was agreed this year — to provide the additional satisfaction gained from independent travel — the students would pull all the required gear for three days and two nights of cycling. “It is the equivalent of a canoe trip on wheels,” Denoon said. Cargo trailers would be the beasts of burden.
Katie Gad, another Centennial teacher, with the inspirational off-site Community Environmental Leadership Program known as CELP, referred her colleagues to Wike Trailers on Regal Road in Guelph."
For more information on cycling trails in Ontario see: http://www.ontariotrailsmap.com/ontariotrails.html?cat=6&icon=cyclingroadsandpaths.png#
CyclingMagazine.ca » Peterborough and the Kawarthas, Ontario
"Whether you’re looking for wide-open countryside vistas on a road ride, undulating free flowing singletrack, or maybe a loop around one of the many small lakes in the area, Peterborough County offers enough diversity to put a smile on any rider’s face. The rolling drumlin style hills make for great cycling while showcasing the beautiful views and pleasant weather of the summer and early fall months.
The city of Peterborough is located 140 km east of Toronto and 200 km west of Kingston. Peterborough County consists of several smaller surrounding towns including Lakefield and Apsley to the north and Norwood, Havelock and Douro to the east. The roads in and around the city are well maintained. Motorists in the area are used to seeing spandex clad cyclists spread over the countryside and are generally considerate when overtaking small and large groups of riders. The Peterborough County Cycling Map does an excellent job of highlighting the best roads to ride. The map was a recent project by a group of local cyclists and the result is a well-designed tool that highlights the major information for riders such as road surface, climbs, traffic activity and rail trails in the area. Copies are available at the Kawartha tourism office, many information stations and at local bike shops."
For a fuller list of cycling trails in Ontario see: http://www.ontariotrailsmap.com/ontariotrails.html?cat=6&icon=cyclingoff.png
The city of Peterborough is located 140 km east of Toronto and 200 km west of Kingston. Peterborough County consists of several smaller surrounding towns including Lakefield and Apsley to the north and Norwood, Havelock and Douro to the east. The roads in and around the city are well maintained. Motorists in the area are used to seeing spandex clad cyclists spread over the countryside and are generally considerate when overtaking small and large groups of riders. The Peterborough County Cycling Map does an excellent job of highlighting the best roads to ride. The map was a recent project by a group of local cyclists and the result is a well-designed tool that highlights the major information for riders such as road surface, climbs, traffic activity and rail trails in the area. Copies are available at the Kawartha tourism office, many information stations and at local bike shops."
For a fuller list of cycling trails in Ontario see: http://www.ontariotrailsmap.com/ontariotrails.html?cat=6&icon=cyclingoff.png
Millennium Trail expansion - Niagara Falls Review - Ontario, CA
"Another section of the Millennium Trail, stretching 1.4-kilometres along the Hydro Canal connecting Morrison St. to Thorold Stone Rd., is scheduled to be completed by the end of the month.
The $370,000-budgeted project, funded equally by the municipal, provincial and federal government through an infrastructure fund, provides a multi-use paved trail for people to walk, cycle, jog and rollerblade in the city's natural green spaces and corridors.
Jeff Claydon, a landscape architect with the city, said the area, known as section four, includes a small parking space at the intersection of Portage Rd. and Morrison St. The city installed a new chain-link fence along the Hydro Canal."
The $370,000-budgeted project, funded equally by the municipal, provincial and federal government through an infrastructure fund, provides a multi-use paved trail for people to walk, cycle, jog and rollerblade in the city's natural green spaces and corridors.
Jeff Claydon, a landscape architect with the city, said the area, known as section four, includes a small parking space at the intersection of Portage Rd. and Morrison St. The city installed a new chain-link fence along the Hydro Canal."
Sudbury Sports News - OFSC encourages snowmobilers to get ready for winter
"Ontario snowmobilers can look forward to a good winter, according to Dave Phillips, senior climatologist for Environment Canada. That forecast sets the celebratory tone for Get Ready to Go Snowmobiling Week, Nov. 22 to 28.
This annual launch of winter by the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) invites Ontarians to discover the many social, health and recreational benefits of snowmobiling, including the world’s largest recreational trail system."
This annual launch of winter by the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) invites Ontarians to discover the many social, health and recreational benefits of snowmobiling, including the world’s largest recreational trail system."
OFTR - The Ontario Federation of Trail Riders
"Toronto Motorcycle Show - Volunteers Needed
Fri Dec 10, 2010 - Sun Dec 12, 2010
http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e34zm07vggl4e4l8/a011kggnlgoeu/questions
Fri Dec 10, 2010 - Sun Dec 12, 2010
http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e34zm07vggl4e4l8/a011kggnlgoeu/questions
A mountain of outdoor opportunities rises in Barrie, ON - Press Release - Digital Journal
"TORONTO, Nov. 17 /CNW/ - Barrie residents woke up this morning to a mountain of self-propelled outdoor recreation possibilities as Mountain Equipment Co-op™ (MEC), Canada's largest co-operative and leading outdoor retailer, opened its fourteenth store. The new store is located at 61 Bryne Drive, just west of Highway 400 at Essa Road.
'MEC exists to provide our members with quality clothing and equipment to support a broad range of self-propelled outdoor activities,' said David Labistour, CEO, MEC. 'The new Barrie store is uniquely positioned to serve the members of Simcoe County, who have nature's playground in their own backyard, as well as Ontarians who frequent the area to pursue their outdoor recreation interests.'"
'MEC exists to provide our members with quality clothing and equipment to support a broad range of self-propelled outdoor activities,' said David Labistour, CEO, MEC. 'The new Barrie store is uniquely positioned to serve the members of Simcoe County, who have nature's playground in their own backyard, as well as Ontarians who frequent the area to pursue their outdoor recreation interests.'"
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Sustainable Cobourg offers cycling plan initiatives - Northumberland Today - Ontario, CA
"COBOURG -- A detailed cycling plan from Sustainable Cobourg, if adopted under Cobourg's Transportation Master Plan, could make Cobourg a cycling destination, its members say.
The two-part, 50-page submission provides an overview, complete with a map, building on existing cycle routes, including the Waterfront Trail.
It includes specific proposals for the following:
* Installation of Share-the-Road signs;
* Conversion of arterial roads using Road Diet design;
* Adding bike lanes;
* Identification of 'hot spots'; and
* Conducting a study for additional bicycle parking,' states the group's document.
'Our proposals are low-cost -- for the most part just signage and paint -- and will transform Cobourg into one of the most cyclable (safe, efficient, from anywhere to anywhere) towns in Ontario, if not North America!'"
The two-part, 50-page submission provides an overview, complete with a map, building on existing cycle routes, including the Waterfront Trail.
It includes specific proposals for the following:
* Installation of Share-the-Road signs;
* Conversion of arterial roads using Road Diet design;
* Adding bike lanes;
* Identification of 'hot spots'; and
* Conducting a study for additional bicycle parking,' states the group's document.
'Our proposals are low-cost -- for the most part just signage and paint -- and will transform Cobourg into one of the most cyclable (safe, efficient, from anywhere to anywhere) towns in Ontario, if not North America!'"
Planning a Canoe Trip In Ontario?-Canoeroots Magazine | Canadian Canoes, Canoeing Country, River Trips, Canoe Camping, Fishing
"Ontario Parks is overhauling their reservation system and the changes could effect you. Find out what's happening."
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
TheSpec - QEW walkway provides missing link between city’s...
"From its clay-red hue to its slanted steel arch, the new pedestrian bridge spanning the QEW and Red Hill Creek was designed to reflect the city and capture its unique character.
And in just a few weeks, Hamiltonians will be able to see the city’s new landmark firsthand, as construction on the project wraps up.
“The community has been waiting a long time for this,” said Marco Oddi, senior project manager for the public works department. “Hamilton has some wonderful trail systems and this was always the missing link.”
Unlike other areas of the city, such as Cootes Paradise and Dundas, the heavily industrial east end has long been alienated from green space, separated from the Lake Ontario waterfront by old landfills and a tangle of high-speed roadways."
And in just a few weeks, Hamiltonians will be able to see the city’s new landmark firsthand, as construction on the project wraps up.
“The community has been waiting a long time for this,” said Marco Oddi, senior project manager for the public works department. “Hamilton has some wonderful trail systems and this was always the missing link.”
Unlike other areas of the city, such as Cootes Paradise and Dundas, the heavily industrial east end has long been alienated from green space, separated from the Lake Ontario waterfront by old landfills and a tangle of high-speed roadways."
News Briefs - The North Bay Nugget - Ontario, CA
News Briefs - The North Bay Nugget - Ontario, CA: "Aone-day workshop on planning trail events is being offered by the Mattawa Voyageur Country Tourism Coalition.
The workshop, How to plan a suc- cessful trail event, is designed for trail groups, event planners, fundraisers and trail users.
Mattawa Voyageur Country wants to use the workshops to show how to use trails in the region with the hopes visitors will return.
Barrie Martin, co-founder of the Haliburton Highlands Trails and Tours Network, is guest speaker."
The workshop, How to plan a suc- cessful trail event, is designed for trail groups, event planners, fundraisers and trail users.
Mattawa Voyageur Country wants to use the workshops to show how to use trails in the region with the hopes visitors will return.
Barrie Martin, co-founder of the Haliburton Highlands Trails and Tours Network, is guest speaker."
Monday, November 15, 2010
Cyclists not impressed with roundabout - Northumberland Today - Ontario, CA
"COBOURG -- Cyclists who are members of Sustainable Cobourg have informed the Town of Cobourg they are not happy with the new roundabout on D'Arcy Street.
'We have expressed our displeasure,' Rick Nonnekes told Northumberland Today.
He is the president of Sustainable Cobourg.
'It's another example where they don't talk to us,' added cyclist and Sustainable Cobourg member Richard Tyssen.
At issue, say the cyclists, is that there is no way for them to ride through the roundabout, such as with a cycle lane. The only option available is to get off their bikes, they said."
'We have expressed our displeasure,' Rick Nonnekes told Northumberland Today.
He is the president of Sustainable Cobourg.
'It's another example where they don't talk to us,' added cyclist and Sustainable Cobourg member Richard Tyssen.
At issue, say the cyclists, is that there is no way for them to ride through the roundabout, such as with a cycle lane. The only option available is to get off their bikes, they said."
ATV riders suspended - The Sarnia Observer - Ontario, CA
"Police are reminding local motorists that ATVs (All Terrain Vehicles) are not permitted on county roadways for recreational use, after a pair of three-day suspensions were handed out in St. Clair Township over the weekend.
Lambton OPP say officers stopped two ATVs traveling on Hill Street in Corunna near the railroad tracks, Sunday evening.
It was determined that the two male operators had been drinking and both showed a 'warn' on a roadside breath test."
Lambton OPP say officers stopped two ATVs traveling on Hill Street in Corunna near the railroad tracks, Sunday evening.
It was determined that the two male operators had been drinking and both showed a 'warn' on a roadside breath test."
5 Peaks Trail Running Series at Terra Cotta - event in Ontario - MyOntarioInfo.com
"5 Peaks is the premier trail running company in Canada. Our goal is to provide an exciting atmosphere, a challenging course, a competitive field, and an amazing off road experience, all while practicing & promoting sound environmental ethics."
Headwaters Communities in Action - Active transportation meeting
Many thanks to the Headwaters Communities in Action Committee for having me as keynote speaker on Saturday past. Dufferin County has supported an Active Transportation Plan. The Ontario Trails Council supports this type of organization and local government support to physical activity, trail development and wellness. Follow the link for more information.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Rattray Marsh « The Lake Ontario waterfront trail
"It was a nice sunny morning. Sometimes watching a huge body of water glisten makes that realization set in a little differently. The trip to Rattray Marsh offered me my first glimpse of Lake Ontario.
The wooded area itself felt like a dry thicket. No smell of moisture in the soil. Somehow, having grown up in India, the idea of a marsh is like the mangroves of the Sunderbans in West Bengal. Humid, oppressive. Five foot-tall trees with expanded umbrellas of juicy, green leaves. Not like the Rattray Marsh. Here, it was warm, hot even, but breezy. No indication of moisture hung in the air. Tall, relatively thin-stumped trees, with dry branches jutting out in random directions before getting lost in the leafy confines of a neighbouring tree. And the forest floor covered in broken logs, ferns, and other grasses of varying heights."
The wooded area itself felt like a dry thicket. No smell of moisture in the soil. Somehow, having grown up in India, the idea of a marsh is like the mangroves of the Sunderbans in West Bengal. Humid, oppressive. Five foot-tall trees with expanded umbrellas of juicy, green leaves. Not like the Rattray Marsh. Here, it was warm, hot even, but breezy. No indication of moisture hung in the air. Tall, relatively thin-stumped trees, with dry branches jutting out in random directions before getting lost in the leafy confines of a neighbouring tree. And the forest floor covered in broken logs, ferns, and other grasses of varying heights."
County Cycling Trails, Welcome Cyclists, ATV and Snowmobile Trails- Eastern Ontario
"The County Trails - The County Trails in Lennox and Addington include nearly 600 kilometers of looping routes where you never retrace your path, yet are able to end where you began. While you explore these trails you experience the history, natural beauty, and serenity of the heart of the Land O' Lakes tourist region.
Stretching northward from the shore of Lake Ontario, the County Trails are well-maintained on county and select local roadways. As you travel, you will pass through rolling landscapes, towns, villages, and historical destinations commemorating the settlements of the United Empire Loyalists. You will see farmland where cattle graze, then minutes later witness a quick transition to rugged Canadian Shield. Evergreen and granite blend to offer the beauty that the Canadian Group of Seven artists painted over and over again.
Some trails are more challenging than others but all of our trails are well marked, easily accessible, and promise to be exciting. Whether you are in your car, walking, biking, or in-line skating, The County Trails are an ideal getaway for anyone seeking a day-long or extended excursion."
Stretching northward from the shore of Lake Ontario, the County Trails are well-maintained on county and select local roadways. As you travel, you will pass through rolling landscapes, towns, villages, and historical destinations commemorating the settlements of the United Empire Loyalists. You will see farmland where cattle graze, then minutes later witness a quick transition to rugged Canadian Shield. Evergreen and granite blend to offer the beauty that the Canadian Group of Seven artists painted over and over again.
Some trails are more challenging than others but all of our trails are well marked, easily accessible, and promise to be exciting. Whether you are in your car, walking, biking, or in-line skating, The County Trails are an ideal getaway for anyone seeking a day-long or extended excursion."
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Off-leash dogs worry Quinte Conservation - Belleville Intelligencer - Ontario, CA
"Quinte Conservation is concerned about off-leash dogs at the Belleville non-profit organization conservation area, said general manager Terry Murphy.
The area is home to the popular Pooch Path -a 0.6-kilometer off-leash trail. Murphy said dogs must be leashed in the parking lot and on the other six kilometres of the trail.
'Dog owners who don't leash their pets in the parking lot and on the trails are making it very dangerous for other users of the Conservation Area,' said Murphy. 'Off-leash dogs have been a problem around the parking lot and office as well as on hiking trails. We've had recent complaints that large off-leash dogs are frightening other users of the trails.'"
OTC says - keep your dogs on a leash, unless you are in a solely dedicated dog park.
The area is home to the popular Pooch Path -a 0.6-kilometer off-leash trail. Murphy said dogs must be leashed in the parking lot and on the other six kilometres of the trail.
'Dog owners who don't leash their pets in the parking lot and on the trails are making it very dangerous for other users of the Conservation Area,' said Murphy. 'Off-leash dogs have been a problem around the parking lot and office as well as on hiking trails. We've had recent complaints that large off-leash dogs are frightening other users of the trails.'"
OTC says - keep your dogs on a leash, unless you are in a solely dedicated dog park.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)