Making trails work in the Shuswap, regional trail strategy

Regional trails are assets that can provide business opportunities and economic benefit through tourism as well as contribute to people getting out and walking, enjoying the beauty of the area (plus they feed a lot of bugs, with those soft city skins). Regional trails initiative discussion and support has come from the BC Trails Manager, local recreation officers, Local First Nations, Local Governments, and Stewardship Groups. No cohesive action or formal commitment has been made by anyone to solve the problems that a variety of users are creating in the backwoods. The study would not be just for foot trails but for motorized users who are often accused of destroying the environment. There are reported cases where sensitive areas are being destroyed by ATVs, bikes, motor bikes, and horse riders. As importantly First Nation interests to land are being ignored without their consultations.  Recreationist of both the peidphiles and motorphiles have been putting in trails without proper consultation or though in some cases. Resulting problems have resulted in conflicts and potential liability issues.   This study will start looking at the Shuswap area in a holistic way not just trails. The Shuswap Trails Alliance, First Nations, CSRD Parks Department and Shuswap Tourism have come together to start connecting all users of the land to work together.

       The total budget for this project is $85,000. Through a Memorandum of Understanding with the CSRD, the Province has contributed $35,000 toward this initiative. Shuswap Tourism is contributing $25,000 and the remaining $25,000 is being proposed from Community Works Funds shared equally ($6,250 each) between Electoral Areas C, D, E, and F.

            The key objectives of this project are to develop a regional model and process for collaboration with First Nations, local governments, stewardship groups and community leadership regarding trail management. Strengthened tenures and authorized trails are critical for long term security and incentive for local investment in trails throughout the region. There needs to be different ways for environmental protection, restoration and management of sensitive sites to be done. The project is hoped to widespread buy-in from local trail stewardship and user groups. In the end there is a wish to create a formal commitment and mandate from local, regional, provincial and First Nations governments. When that is accomplished, we will then go to a simpler plan of creating world peace!