Vancouver Island Spine Trail Vancouver July 8, 2013 update ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Tip to Tip Trail Values • Non-motorized use only, whether on-foot, horseback or bicycle, but not necessarily all segments of the trail accessible for all users. • High ground oriented (not coastal) to access the scenic and wilderness attributes of the island’s mountainous spine. • Linking to and connecting between existing trails to make use of those trails. • Seeking sensitive and respectful access to the area’s natural, historical and cultural attributes. • Respect for, recognition of and sensitivity to the interests of the traditional and legal rights of the First Nations. • Respect for, recognition of and sensitivity to the legal rights of the private landowners across whose lands the trail might route. • Recognition of and sensitivity to the legal position of the jurisdictions involved, whether municipal, regional district or provincial. Strategic Plan • Set a vision and annual goals (50km/year new trail) • Build a coalition of support among outdoor recreation clubs, local governments, First Nations, private landowners, other governments, youth organizations • Coordinate efforts between trail developers; proposing consistent trail values International Trails Day Event June 1, 2013 • Port Alberni • Trails of the Alberni Valley Outdoor Club • Hiking, trail running • 40 participants International Trails Day Event June 1, 2013 Before setting out On the trail International Trails Day Event June 1, 2013 Looking forward – Priorities • Malahat gap • Lake Cowichan – south side • Lake Cowichan (west end) – Tuck Lake • Alberni Valley trails - maintenance & rehabilitation including the “Runners Trail” Priorities • Signage for confirmed alignment (with TCT where co-located) • Spine Trail signage through Tuck Lake to Port Alberni • Also website developments to improve communication Signage North Island Feasibility • Have recently completed a feasibility study for the Strathcona Dam – Port Hardy segment (approx. 230 kms) – Crown land with some tree farm tenures • Beaufort range (from Cumberland to Strathcona Park) – Private forest lands • Link to the North Coast Trail (Cape Scott Provincial Park) “Connecting Coastal Communities” October 26, 2013 • Conference of Vancouver Island non-motorized trails stakeholders, Courtenay • Themes: – Case study of long-distance trail (e.g., Pacific Crest) – Vancouver Island trail champions – Perspectives of key stakeholders: landowners, clubs, local governments, First Nations, Province – Options for development and management of trails on Vancouver Island – Economic development benefits Membership • Members are the core of the association • Organise events • Funding • Volunteer work • Trail construction & maintenance Volunteers • Trail development – “Tuck Lake” 30km trail from western shore of Lake Cowichan to Frances Lake – Signage from Lake Cowichan to Port Alberni • VISTA organizational development • Public education and awareness • Regional Coordinators Donations • Funding needed for – Feasibility & design – Construction • contracted trail boss • expenses for volunteer crew members – Signage – Permits – Maintenance Sponsors Packs On!.