Oak Ridges Moraine Trail. Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

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1 8 Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

2 2 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

3 8 Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Enviroscape Consulting Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation July, 2011 Cover photo: Cheryl Hutton 3

4 Measuring Success on the Oak Ridges Moraine This report is the eighth in a series of eight reports commissioned by the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation (ORMF or the Foundation). Started in 2010, the ORMF s Measuring Success on the Oak Ridges Moraine project was launched to assess how effective the provincial government, the ORMF and all other Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM or the Moraine) partners have been in meeting the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plans (ORMCP or the Plan) purpose and objectives. This work was undertaken in preparation for the scheduled legislative review of the ORMCP in The ORMF was created to provide support and encouragement for activities that preserve, protect and enhance the environmental integrity of the ORM as well as to support the maintenance of a trail along it s length. The ORM is a unique and irreplaceable landscape that covers approximately 190,000 hectares and stretches 160 km from the Trent River to the Niagara Escarpment. Shared and enjoyed by millions of people, it is the source of water for many river systems, home to a wealth of natural habitats and an enormous groundwater recharge system for south central Ontario. It is often described as a rain barrel since its permeable sands and gravels absorb and collect rain and snow melt, which then slowly filters into the deep aquifers below the ground. It is estimated that more than 250,000 people rely on the Moraine to provide them with clean drinking water. Boasting 273 km of trail and countless outdoor recreational activities, the ORM offers something for everyone. It is a vibrant place for people to live, work and play in harmony with nature. The Foundation has been in place now for over eight years and so it seemed appropriate that a comprehensive evaluation of its achievements as well as those of its numerous partners be undertaken. In carrying out this assessment, the Foundation adopted a comprehensive approach that looked at overall effectiveness of the Plan and not just those elements that related to the responsibilities of the Foundation. In this way the final product would be useful for both the Foundation and the many stakeholders engaged in various aspects of the implementation of the ORMCP. Accordingly, the Foundation identified a wide range of matters worthy of investigation and further discussion. The results are captured in the following reports: 1. An Assessment of Stakeholder Awareness, Support and Concerns for the Implementation of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan 2. Assessing Compliance of Policy and Regulatory Agencies to the Requirements of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan 3. Assessing the Health of the Oak Ridges Moraine within a Watershed Context 4. Assessing the Health of the Oak Ridges Moraine within a Landscape and Municipal Context 5. Achievements in Land Stewardship since the Establishment of the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation 6. Achievements in Land Securement since the Establishment of the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation 7. Achievements in Research and Education since the Establishment of the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation 8. Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Enviroscape Consulting Services prepared reports 1 to 4 and 8 under the direction of the Measuring Success Steering Committee, an ad hoc group that drew on expertise from government, university and non-government organizations. The remaining reports were prepared by the ORMF in consultation with the steering committee. The draft reports were released on March 9, 2011 for a 90-day commenting period; there was excellent feedback and constructive comments received from numerous groups and individuals. These eight reports will continue to be shared with stakeholders to promote discussion and to facilitate the development of improved approaches for the long-term protection of the Moraine. Their contents represent the opinions and advice of the consultant and steering committee that prepared them and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the ORMF Board of Directors or its members. The objective is that the results of this project will aid in the implementation of the ORMCP and related initiatives on a number of fronts, including: Insights into the perceptions of stakeholders on the significance and effectiveness of the Plan and its associated initiatives; The identification of areas where future investigation is required in preparation for the 2015 review of the ORMCP; The identification of opportunities for improvement to the current implementation process that can increase the effectiveness of the Plan; The demonstration of approaches that can be used for the establishment of a monitoring program for the ORM; The promotion of greater awareness and appreciation of the considerable achievements of the Foundation and its partners in the protection and enhancement of the environmental integrity of the ORM; 4 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

5 The identification of areas where the Foundation may wish to focus its program efforts in the future; and The identification of additional partnership opportunities the Foundation may wish to pursue. Resolving some areas of concerns will likely require approaches that go beyond simply amending the ORMCP or funding the ORMF but instead may require a re-examination of implementation in other areas such as broader provincial water management programs, monitoring programs and provincial audit responsibilities. Measuring Success Steering Committee David Burnett, Conservation Authorities Moraine Coalition Joyce Chau, EcoSpark Debbe Crandall, Save the Oak Ridges Moraine Coalition (STORM) Kim Gavine, Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation Lisa Grbinicek, Niagara Escarpment Commission Fred Johnson, Enviroscape Consulting Dan McCarthy, University of Waterloo John Riley, Nature Conservancy of Canada Lisa Turnbull, Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation Board of Directors (2011) Caroline Schultz Chair; Executive Director, Ontario Nature; nominee of the Government of Ontario Gayle Wood Vice-Chair; Chief Administrative Officer, Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority; nominee of Conservation Ontario Don Prince Secretary; Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust; nominee of the Federal Government Graham Whitelaw Treasurer; Queen s National Scholar and Assistant Professor, Queen s University; nominee of Save the Oak Ridges Moraine Coalition Michael Jolliffe Director; Vice President, Business Development and Corporate Relations, Tetra Tech; nominee of the Government of Ontario Marolyn Morrison Director; Mayor, Town of Caledon; nominee of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario Rick Smith Director; Executive Director, Environmental Defence; nominee of the Government of Ontario Past Members of the Board of Directors of the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation Bob Barnett John Burke Debbe Crandall (past Chair) Steve Gilchrist Richard Grant Jim Kelleher David Love Claire Malcolmson James McKellar Marilyn Pearce J. R (Russ) Powell (past Chair) John Riley Deborah Schulte Erin Shapero Vito Spatafora Mark Stabb Ric Symmes (past Chair) We would also like to thank the following who have provided various types of support during the production of these reports: Sarah Chartrand, Michele Donnelly, Janet Friskney, Megan McRae, Talya Moshinsky, Ken Mott, Sasha Lambrinos, Kathy Padgett and Judith Reda. 5

6 6 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

7 Contents PURPOSE BACKGROUND 2.1 History of the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail and the Oak Ridges Trail Association 2.2 Protection and Development Objectives and Targets for the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail SUMMARY OF WORK CARRIED OUT ON THE OAK RIDGES MORAINE TRAIL 3.1 Status of the Trail prior to the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan 3.2 Work Carried Out on Trail Improvements since April 22, Development of Strategic Plans Establishment of Trail Gateways Establishment of New Trails Improvements to Existing Trails Establishment of New Parking Spaces Community Outreach Membership in the Oak Ridges Trail Association Production and Sale of the Oak Ridges Trail Guide Identification of Future Opportunities for Trail Improvement CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE OAK RIDGES MORAINE FOUNDATION EFFECTIVENESS OF THE TRAIL PROPONENTS IN ACHIEVING THE TRAIL OBJECTIVES OF THE OAK RIDGES MORAINE CONSERVATION PLAN 13 Table 1 An Evaluation of the ORTA s Effectiveness in Meeting the Requirements of Section 39 of the ORMCP FUTURE CHALLENGES FOR THE MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT OF THE OAK RIDGES MORAINE TRAIL OBSERVATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS 19 REFERENCES 20 Appendix A Tables Table 2 Summary of the Status of the Main Trail in April Table 3 Summary of the Status of the Main Trail in October Table 4 Summary of Ancillary Services along the Main Trail in April Table 5 Summary of Ancillary Services along the Main Trail in October Table 6 Summary of Trail Changes 2002 to Appendix B Trail Maps 7

8 1.0 PURPOSE This report provides information, observations and conclusions about the progress made by stakeholders most particularly the Oak Ridges Trail Association (ORTA or the Association) and the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation (ORMF or the Foundation) in achieving the objectives of Section 39 of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP or the Plan) as they relate to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail (ORMT or the Trail). More specifically, this report: Outlines the history of the ORMT and its establishment by the ORTA; Identifies the specific objectives and targets of the ORMCP in establishing a trail and assesses the degree to which they have been met; Identifies the role and accomplishments of the ORTA in establishing the ORMT; Identifies the specific accomplishments of both the ORTA and the ORMF in expanding and improving the ORMT since the adoption of the ORMCP on April 22, 2002; and Identifies future opportunities and challenges facing all stakeholders in meeting the objectives of the policies of the ORMCP as they relate to the ORMT. Photo: Harold Sellers 2.0 BACKGROUND 2.1 History of the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail and the Oak Ridges Trail Association Efforts to establish a trail along the Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM or the Moraine) first began in 1973 when the Ontario Trail Riders Association founded the Great Pine Ridge Equestrian Trail, which was located primarily along existing roads and road allowances. In 1991, a cooperative effort among Save the Oak Ridges Moraine (STORM) Coalition, the Metro Toronto and Region Conservation Authority and Hike Ontario gave rise to a group of volunteers who developed the idea of a system of public recreational trails along the full length of the Moraine, from Albion Hills in the west to the Northumberland Forest in the east. This group of volunteers formed an Oak Ridges Trail Steering Committee, and following a series of meetings, officially inaugurated the Citizens for an Oak Ridges Trail (CORT) at a public gathering held at Albion Hills in May The first sections of the Trail were established along existing road allowances in the Township of King and subsequently along roads in Uxbridge Township. CORT was changed to the Oak Ridges Trail Association (ORTA) several years later. The main objective of the ORTA is to develop and secure a trail along the Moraine,...thereby promoting an appreciation and respect for the Moraine s ecological, cultural and scenic integrity, with the aim of retaining a trail corridor in its natural state. (Oak Ridges Trail Guidebook 2004). The Association now comprises about 700 members. In pursuit of its objective, the ORTA has worked to extend the ORMT along the entire length of the ORM and to physically connect it with communities located to the north and south of the Moraine. At the present time, the ORTA maintains a marked trail and side trails, publishes a detailed guidebook, issues a quarterly newsletter, maintains a website ( and offers a program of group hikes, all through volunteer efforts. The ORTA has received funding from both private and corporate donors, as well as grants from the ORMF. In 2002, the ORTA trail system was accepted as the starting point for the ORMT envisioned under Section 39 of the ORMCP. The ORTA submitted a proposal for a study to identify the optimum route for the proposed ORMT. The first grant awarded by the ORMF facilitated the creation of a Strategic Plan for the Trail. The ORTA, the ORMF and other organizations have focused on opportunities to expand and improve this trail so that it comes closer to meeting the objectives of the ORMCP. 8 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

9 2.2 Protection and Development Objectives and Targets for the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Section 39 of the ORMCP sets out policies for the protection, expansion and management of a recreational trail system for the ORM. Although not explicitly stated, the existing Trail established by the Association has been assumed to constitute the ORMT as intended and prescribed in this section of the ORMCP. 5. Works to protect ecologically sensitive portions of the trail system. 6. Conservation and erosion control to protect or restore key natural heritage features and hydrologically sensitive features and the related ecological functions along the trail system. (4) Paragraph 1 of subsection (3) does not prohibit the use of motorized wheelchairs by persons who need them for mobility. The ORTA has developed a more comprehensive strategic plan outlining how the Association would expand, develop, manage and maintain the ORMT. The first Strategic Plan, released in February, 2004, provided a five-year plan to guide the ORTA s operations. Section 39 specifically states: 39. (1) A recreational trail system shall be established to provide continuous access and travel along the entire Plan Area, accessible to all including persons with disabilities. (2) The trail system shall, (a) be designed to maintain and, where possible, improve or restore the ecological integrity of the Plan Area; (b) be located in the Natural Core Areas and Natural Linkage Areas as much as possible; (c) be located away from unopened road allowances as much as possible. (3) Despite anything else in this Plan, the following uses, buildings and structures are permitted on the trail system: 1. Non-motorized trail uses. 2. Parking, signage, washrooms and interpretive facilities to support access to the trail system. 3. Fencing to define and protect the trails. Photo: Ron Pitts A subsequent plan entitled Strategic Directions A Strategic Plan for the Oak Ridges Trail was released in February 2009 to guide development and operation of the trail system from 2009 to The strategy addresses the internal objectives, targets and plans of the ORTA and provides a detailed account of how it has addressed or plans to address the requirements of Section 39 of the ORMCP. The effectiveness of the ORTA and other organizations in meeting these requirements will be discussed in more detail in later sections of this report. 3.0 SUMMARY OF WORK CARRIED OUT ON THE OAK RIDGES MORAINE TRAIL The main objective of the ORTA is to develop and secure a trail along the Moraine. 3.1 Status of the Trail prior to the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan On April 22, 2002, the ORM had km of main trail and 47.9 km of side trails made up of 18 side trail units. The main trail extended from Palgrave in the Town of Caledon eastward to Gores Landing in the Township of Hamilton. One hundred and six kilometres (53.5%) of the main trail were located off road, 45.7 km (23.1%) of which were located on public land. A plaque was installed at the south end of Sheppard s Bush in Aurora but it was not considered a gateway. 4. Works to improve access to the trail system and remove barriers to its use, for the benefit of all including persons with disabilities. 9

10 3.2 Work Carried Out on Trail Improvements since April 22, 2002 This section provides a summary of accomplishments in relation to the ORMT since 2002 when the ORMCP came into effect. Appendix A contains tabular data that illustrates the kinds of improvements made to the Trail system since 2002; Tables 2 to 5 show detailed tracking of specific benchmarks per section of Trail for the period between April 2006 and October Unfortunately, this level of detail is not available for Table 6 shows a summary of total trail achievements for 2002, 2006 and Photo: Katerina Kondratieva Development of Strategic Plans Since the adoption of the ORMCP, the ORTA has developed and begun to implement its Strategic Plan, which was adopted in 2004 and subsequently revised in The Strategic Plan outlined how the Association will continue the work begun in 1992 to expand, secure, develop, manage and maintain the ORMT along the ORM from the Niagara Escarpment to the Rice Lake Plains. The strategy has defined an Optimum Trail Alignment. As shown in the overview map of the ORMT (See Appendix B), it is a corridor approximately one kilometres wide, extending in an east-west direction across the length of the ORM. This corridor is the preferred location for the Trail based on conformity with the ORMCP. This alignment is used as a general guide for locating and refining a trail that will be approximately one metre in width. Over time, trail improvements and adjustments will seek to follow this alignment. Detailed trail alignments will be based on criteria such as potential for off-road locations, safety, accessibility, opportunities for side trails, protection of ecological integrity, sensitivity to natural and cultural features and opportunities to support other community and recreational activities. The strategy also identifies a number of targets to allow the ORTA to measure its success in achieving its organizational objectives Establishment of Trail Gateways Since 2002, four trail gateways have been developed with one under development. These sites all have signage and parking facilities and will serve as major entry points for the Trail. The gateways are located at Sheppard s Bush in Aurora, Oak Ridges Corridor Park in Richmond Hill, the fairgrounds in Warkworth and the sports playing fields in Castleton. One more is being planned jointly with the Bruce Trail Association in Mono Township where the ORMT connects to the Bruce Trail. The location of these sites is shown on the map in Appendix B. One smaller parking area with signage has been constructed in Northumberland County Forest and another one is planned for the Oak Height Estate Winery in Alnwick/Haldimand. Although these points are not considered formal gateways they are expected to be popular entry points for trail users Establishment of New Trails Since 2002, an additional km of trail have been approved and/or marked, representing a 42% increase in total length of the Trail. This increase includes an additional 75.8 km of trail along a defined main route, which represents the completion of the continuous east-west trail across the entire ORM. This expansion represents an increase of 38%. An additional 27.8 km of side trails, representing an increase of 58%, have been established, forming 11 additional sidetrail routes for a total of 29 side trail loops. Discussions with various stakeholders are currently underway that would increase the total length of side trails and off-road trail options on the main route Improvements to Existing Trails The ORTA has been able to negotiate several alternative routes along the main trail to move 5.5 km on-road portions of the main trail to 6.8 km of off-road trail on properties owned by the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority Establishment of New Parking Spaces Since 2002, the number of full parking facilities has increased from 21 to 41. The number of roadside parking areas has increased from 54 to 55 during the same time period. See Table 6 in Appendix A. Note: Full parking facilities are areas where vehicles may be parked in identifiable parking areas off the main travelled roads. Roadside parking areas are locations where cars may be safely parked on the side of the road close to the Trail. 10 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

11 3.2.6 Community Outreach From mid-2008 to present, the Executive Director of the ORTA, in collaboration with the ORMF, launched a major community outreach program aimed at raising the profile of the ORMT, an initiative that included investigating opportunities to expand and improve the Trail. During this period, a large number of organizations and individuals were contacted, including: Six conservation authorities; Twenty municipal bodies; Four trail groups, not including the ORTA; The Nature Conservancy of Canada; Two land trusts; Three community groups; The Government of Canada; and Over 24 private landowners. This outreach effort included over 50 meetings with various organizations and individuals, 24 site inspections, 17 formal presentations of which 14 were to municipal councils and two comprehensive landowner contact programs. Many of the specific increases in trail length and expansion in the number of parking areas discussed elsewhere in this report are directly attributable to these efforts Membership in the Oak Ridges Trail Association The ORTA membership comprises just under 700 members with membership fluctuating between 650 and 700 for several years now. The creation of the Oak Ridges Trail Strategy and the collaboration with the ORMF has helped make the Trail better and longer. However, executive members of the ORTA believe that these activities have also created the impression in many people s minds that the Trail is now looked after by the Province, a circumstance that convinces some that membership in the ORTA is no longer necessary. (Peter Schaefer, personal communication) Production and Sale of the Oak Ridges Trail Guide Since its first issue in 1997, over 7000 copies of the ORTA Guidebook have been sold. The ORTA estimates that it sells about 500 copies each year to both members and non-members. The bookselling industry now considers the Guidebook to be a Canadian bestseller based on its cumulative sales. (Peter Schaefer, personal communication) Identification of Future Opportunities for Trail Improvement Notwithstanding that the ORTA was able to achieve a number of expansions and improvements to the ORMT, the community outreach program discussed in above identified additional opportunities that, if pursued, would generate additional expansion and improvements to the Trail. These include: Improvements to the Yonge Street Corridor Reserve Crossing; The creation of the Oak Ridges Trail Strategy and the collaboration with the ORTA has helped make the Trail better and longer. Establishment of a northern trail corridor in Uxbridge; Establishment of an off-road trail through properties owned by the aggregate industry in York and Durham Regions; Side trail to the City of the Kawartha Lakes; Side trail to the Community of Millbrook; Loop trail in the Northumberland County Forest; Loop trail through Nature Conservancy of Canada property in Alnwick/Haldimand; Loop trail south of the Northumberland County Forest onto properties owned by private land owner; and Trail realignment south of Warkworth to relocate a portion of the Trail off road and onto private land. Photo: Nancy Dickson These options are highly feasible but will require further work, including follow up with stakeholders and a commitment to undertake the necessary work to blaze and maintain these new trails. 11

12 4.0 CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE OAK RIDGES MORAINE FOUNDATION The ORMF has been a significant partner for the ORTA in its mission to develop and secure the Trail. Nine grants totaling $751,826 have enabled the Association to achieve many of its goals and objectives as well as contribute to the requirements under Section 39 of the ORMCP. The ORTA received one of the very first grants from the ORMF, which allowed it to prepare a Strategic Plan for the ORMT. This plan outlined how the Association would expand, secure, develop, manage and maintain the Trail. Given that the ORTA had been a volunteer-run organization, funding was necessary in order to hire staff to implement the activities outlined in the Strategic Plan. In this regard, the ORMF helped to fund positions for both an Executive Director and an Administrative Assistant for the Association. The Foundation also assisted the ORTA with a review of its governance models and by identifying opportunities for increased collaboration with other Moraine organizations. Several grants were also made to assist the ORTA in undertaking trail infrastructure projects and public awareness campaigns. These initiatives included: boardwalks, stiles, parking lots, public service announcements, magazine articles and speaking tours. One of the largest grants made to the ORTA was provided to develop a fundraising activity that would assist the organization in becoming financially self-sustainable. As a result, the Moraine for Life Adventure Relay was created in The Adventure Relay is a 160 km, non-stop team event that involves relay teams traversing the Moraine by canoe, bike and on foot. The event raises funds for the Association and helps to raise awareness of the ORM and its vibrant habitat. Since its inception the event has grown in popularity and now boasts registration of over 450 competitors. In 2008, the Foundation recognized the need for additional effort with respect to trail securement. The Foundation retained a consultant to work with the ORTA in launching a major community outreach program aimed at increasing the profile of the ORMT and securing lands for its further development. 5.0 EFFECTIVENESS OF THE TRAIL PROPONENTS IN ACHIEVING THE TRAIL OBJECTIVES OF THE OAK RIDGES MORAINE CONSERVATION PLAN In assessing the effectiveness of past and current initiatives in the context of the ORMCP, the specific policies of Section 39 of the Plan were assessed against the actual achievements of the ORTA. The results of this assessment are shown in Table 1. Photo: Jeff Hladun 12 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

13 Table 1 An Evaluation of the ORTA s Effectiveness in Meeting the Requirements of Section 39 of the ORMCP Applicable Section of the ORMCP Actual or Inferred Performance Target Level of Achievement by April 22, 2002 Level of Achievement by October 31, 2010 Observation or Comment 39.(1) A recreational trail system shall be established to provide continuous access and travel along the entire Plan Area, accessible to all, including persons with disabilities. A continuous trail from the eastern end of the ORM in the municipality of Trent Hills to the western end of the ORM in the Township of Mono km of main trail from Gores Landing in Hamilton Township in the east to Palgrave in the Town of Caledon in the west km of main trail established from Castleton and Warkworth in the east to Mono Township in the west. The trail is now fully connected from east to west. See section 39. (4) on page 15 for further details on disabled access. 39. (2) The trail system shall, (a) be designed to maintain and, where possible, improve or restore the ecological integrity of the Plan Area. That the trail manager adopt and utilize planning, siting, construction and operational practices that maintain and, where possible, improve ecological integrity. N.A. The ORTA recognizes its obligation with respect to protection of the ecological integrity of the ORM. Its Strategy commits it to adhere to the policies of Section 39(1) of the ORMCP that require activities on the ORM be limited to low-intensity recreational uses and that the trails be designed to have minimal impact. Since the existing and proposed new trails require little disturbance of terrain or vegetation and will avoid highly sensitive areas to the fullest extent possible, there should be minimal impact on ecological integrity. In addition, when a new trail is being considered through an area identified as environmentally sensitive, ORTA consults with the appropriate conservation group for planning alignment, construction and operational advice. The ORTA will continue to adhere to this policy as one of its main operating principles, a commitment that is reflected in its current Strategic Plan. 13

14 Applicable Section of the ORMCP Actual or Inferred Performance Target Level of Achievement by April 22, 2002 Level of Achievement by October 31, 2010 Observation or Comment 39. (2) The trail system shall, b) be located in the Natural Core Areas and Natural Linkage Areas as much as possible. 100% of the main trail should be located within the Natural Core and Linkage Areas of the ORMCP. The ORTA created an Optimum Trail Corridor that identified the ideal alignment for the Trail, which by and large passed through either Natural Core or Natural Linkage. All new main trails created since 2002 have occurred predominately (i.e. over 80%) within the Optimum Trail Corridor and/or in areas designated Natural Core and Natural Linkage. 39. (2) The trail system shall, (c) be located away from unopened road allowances as much as possible. No trails should be located on road allowances that are being used or planned for future car and truck transport. N.A. The ORTA recognizes the need to pursue opportunities to relocate the existing Trail away from municipal roads as well as unopened road allowances planned for upgrade to full municipal road standards. The ORTA and the ORMF have interpreted this policy to mean the avoidance of trails on unopened road allowances where they will become less desirable for long-term use if they are upgraded to full municipal road standards. There are many unopened roads where conversion to full municipal road standards is unlikely and these make ideal locations for the ORMT. 39. (3) Despite anything else in this Plan, the following uses, buildings and structures are permitted on the trail system: 1. Non-motorized trail uses. All the ORTA trails are located on trails where motorized trail use is not permitted. The ORMT is designed for nonmotorized trail uses and, to the extent possible, seeks trail locations where motorized use is not permitted. The ORMT is designed for nonmotorized use. Although the ORMT is designed for nonmotorized use, the ORTA and the ORMF have no control over the uses permitted on the Trail. That right is retained by the landowner. 14 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

15 Applicable Section of the ORMCP Actual or Inferred Performance Target Level of Achievement by April 22, 2002 Level of Achievement by October 31, 2010 Observation or Comment 39. (3) Despite anything else in this Plan, the following uses, buildings and structures are permitted on the trail system: 2. Parking, signage, washrooms and interpretive facilities to support access to the trail system. The ORMT provides for parking, signage, washroom and interpretive facilities to support access to the trail system. The ORMT allows for all the uses identified in this subsection of the ORMCP. The ORMT allows for all the uses identified in this subsection of the ORMCP. The ORTA does not envision the establishment of uses outside the range of uses set out in the ORMCP. Although the ORMT is designed to accommodate these uses, the ORTA and the ORMF have no control over the uses ultimately permitted on the Trail. That right is retained by the landowner. 39. (3) Despite anything else in this Plan, the following uses, buildings and structures are permitted on the trail system: 3. Fencing to define and protect the trails. The ORMT can permit fencing along the Trail to define and protect the Trail. The ORTA has provided fencing and signage in the past to protect the Trail and to demarcate boundaries between the Trail and private property. The ORTA will continue to provide fencing and signage where appropriate to protect the Trail and to demarcate boundaries between the Trail and private property where deemed necessary. 15

16 Applicable Section of the ORMCP Actual or Inferred Performance Target Level of Achievement by April 22, 2002 Level of Achievement by October 31, 2010 Observation or Comment 39. (3) Despite anything else in this Plan, the following uses, buildings and structures are permitted on the trail system: 4. Works to improve access to the trail system and remove barriers to its use, for the benefit of all including persons with disabilities. The ORMT must make provision for the trail system that is accessible to all, including disabled persons. N.A. The ORTA Strategy is committed to making the ORMT accessible for all Ontarians, including those with disabilities. In the design and construction of new trail sections and the reconstruction of existing sections, the ORTA uses the guide developed by the Trails for All Ontarians Collaborative (2006). Within the parameters of environmental protection, the Strategic Plan commits the ORTA to pursue a trail that can be enjoyed by Ontarians of all abilities. On sections of the Trail, the Universal Trail Assessment Process will be used to provide trail users with objective information about on-trail conditions and to identify sections of the Trail where accessibility could be increased with reasonable modifications or improvements. To date over 12 km of the existing Trail have been assessed using the Universal Trail Assessment Process. 16 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

17 Applicable Section of the ORMCP Actual or Inferred Performance Target Level of Achievement by April 22, 2002 Level of Achievement by October 31, 2010 Observation or Comment 39. (3) Despite anything else in this Plan, the following uses, buildings and structures are permitted on the trail system: 5. Works to protect ecologically sensitive portions of the trail system. 6. Conservation and erosion control to protect or restore key natural heritage features and hydrologically sensitive features and the related ecological functions along the trail system. The ORTA can permit works on the Trail that provide erosion control when protecting natural heritage and ecological and hydrological features. N.A. Under its strategy, the ORTA commits to ensuring that the intent of the ORMCP is met by carrying out trail design, construction and maintenance in a manner that considers environmental impacts. 39. (4) Paragraph 1 of subsection (3) does not prohibit the use of motorized wheelchairs by persons who need them for mobility. The ORMT can provide for access by motorized wheelchairs. N.A. ORTA will provide for motorized wheelchair access to the Trail where appropriate. Under its Universal Accessible Trail Program, the ORTA has identified 1.2 km of trail that are accessible for motorized wheelchair use. This inventory program is in its early stages of development and will no doubt identify and/ or develop additional trail sections that are suitable for such forms of access. 17

18 6.0 FUTURE CHALLENGES FOR THE MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT OF THE OAK RIDGES MORAINE TRAIL The single biggest challenge to the ORTA is its ability to find the resources (financial and human) to maintain current trail assets and to pursue high potential opportunities. Since 2002, the ORTA has been able to draw on financial and support services available from the ORMF. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that funding from this source will continue. In addition, the ORTA has cited volunteer burn-out and dropping membership as circumstances that will challenge its ability to maintain even its current level of activity. Both the ORTA and the ORMF need to do a focused evaluation of the Association s probable ability to support the ORMT initiative in the future, including a consideration of whether or not future efforts should include pursuing the high profile opportunities identified in Section of this report. 7.0 OBSERVATIONS Observation #1: The ORTA, through its strategic plans and its trail development and management practices, has demonstrated how it has adhered to the planning, design and operational policies of the ORMCP as outlined in Section 39. Observation #2: Since 2006, the ORTA, with direct financial and planning support from the ORMF, has been able to achieve the ORMCP s objective of establishing a continuous east-west trail across the entire ORM. Observation #3: Since 2006, the ORTA, with direct financial and staffing support from the ORMF, has been able to identify a number of opportunities to improve the ORMT by moving on-road portions of the main trail to off-road alternatives, increasing the number of side trails and increasing the number of parking and roadside parking opportunities along the Trail. Observation #4: Since 2008, the ORTA, with financial and staffing support from the ORMF, has identified a number of high potential opportunities for further improving the ORMT. These opportunities will require additional landowner contact and trail marking and blazing to reach fruition. The Association will not likely be able to pursue these opportunities without additional funding. Observation #5: The ORTA can be justly proud of its accomplishments since As a volunteer group it has created and managed one of the largest trail systems in Ontario. However, the Association has expressed concerns that the expanded trail system will tax the capacity of its volunteer resources to maintain even the current trail length. The Association is presently in a state of reassessing its vision and commitments in light of current and potential future funding. Observation #6: The ORTA recognizes that the public s perception of its role in Trail stewardship since 2004 must be refreshed and constantly re-communicated as there is a general feeling that since collaborating with the ORMF on meeting ORMCP objectives membership in the ORTA is not needed. Observation #7 Completion of future opportunities for trail improvements will depend in large part on the ability of the ORTA, the ORMF and its other partners to identify resources (financial and staff) needed to follow up on high potential opportunities. This may require alternative governance models and more targeted communications to address more effectively these opportunities. 8.0 RECOMMENDATIONS Recommendation #1: The Foundation should seek funds from the Province to continue to support activities that maintain and improve the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail in partnership with the Oak Ridges Trail Association and other stakeholders Recommendation #2: The Foundation and the Oak Ridges Trail Association ORTA should explore alternative governance models to more effectively seek the involvement of other stakeholders in the maintenance and improvement of the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail including: Seeking additional sources of funding; and Seeking greater support and enhanced partnerships with other stakeholders having an interest in trail development such as conservation authorities, municipalities and community forest groups. 18 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

19 REFERENCES Oak Ridges Trail Association 2003 Guide for Trail Maintenance, Revised June 5, 2003 Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Association 2004 Oak Ridges Trail Guidebook Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Association 2004 A Strategic Plan for The Oak Ridges Trail, February 2, 2004 Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Association 2006 Oak Ridges Trail Guidebook, Revised April 2006 Oak Ridges Trail Association 2009 Strategic Directions , A Strategic Plan for the Oak Ridges Trail, approved by the Oak Ridges Trail Association Board of Directors on January 31, 2009 Oak Ridges Trail Association 2009 Oak Ridges Trail Guidebook, Revised December 2009 Oak Ridges Trail Association 2010 A Guide to Universally Accessible Trail on the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Province of Ontario 2002 Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan. Adopted as a Regulation to the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act on April 22, Schaefer, Peter (October 29, 2010), President Oak Ridges Trail Association Personal Communication Trails for All Collaborative 2006 Ontario s Best Trails: Guidelines and Best Practices for the Design, Construction and Maintenance of Sustainable Trails for All Ontarians Photo: Elaine Uskoski 19

20 Appendix A Tables 2 6 Table 2 Summary of the Status of the Main Trail in April 2006 Chapter/ Area of the ORM Main Trail Length in Km Trail Length on Public Land in Km Trail Length on Private Land in Km Trail Length on Public Road in Km Trail Length on Unopened Road Allowance in Km Humber Headwaters Caledon King Aurora Richmond Hill Whitchurch- Stouffville Uxbridge Scugog Clarington Hope/Hamilton Alnwick/ Haldimand Cramahe Trent Hills Total (100%) (25.8%) (9.2%) (43.7%) (21.2%) 20 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

21 Table 3 Summary of the Status of the Main Trail in October 2010 Chapter/ Area of the ORM Main Trail Length in Km Trail Length on Public Land in Km Trail Length on Private Land in Km Trail Length on Public Road in Km Trail Length on Unopened Road Allowance in Km Humber Headwaters Caledon King Aurora Richmond Hill Whitchurch- Stouffville Uxbridge Scugog Clarington Hope/Hamilton Alnwick/ Haldimand Cramahe Trent Hills Total (100%) (31%) (7.3%) (41.6%) (20%) 21

22 Table 4 Summary of Ancillary Services along the Main Trail in April 2006 Chapter/ Area of the ORM Number of Side Trails Side Trail Length in Km Number of Parking Lots* Number of Roadside Parking Opportunities* Number of Gateway Sites Humber Headwaters Caledon King Aurora Richmond Hill Whitchurch- Stouffville Uxbridge Scugog Clarington Hope/Hamilton Alnwick/ Haldimand Cramahe Trent Hills Total * Parking lot facilities are areas where vehicles may be parked in identifiable parking areas off the main travelled roads. Roadside parking areas are locations where cars may be safely parked on the side of the road close to the Trail. 22 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

23 Table 5 Summary of Ancillary Services along the Main Trail in October 2010 Chapter/ Area of the ORM Number of Side Trails Side Trail Length in Km Number of Parking Lots* Number of Roadside Parking Opportunities* Number of Gateway Sites Humber Headwaters Caledon King Aurora Richmond Hill Whitchurch- Stouffville Uxbridge Scugog Clarington Hope/Hamilton Alnwick/ Haldimand Cramahe Trent Hills Total * Parking lot facilities are areas where vehicles may be parked in identifiable parking areas off the main travelled roads. Roadside parking areas are locations where cars may be safely parked on the side of the road close to the Trail. 23

24 Table 6 Summary of Trail Changes 2002 to 2010 April 2002 April 2006 October 2010 Difference 2002 to 2010 % Change Total Main Trail Length in Km Side Trail Length in Km % % Number of Side Trails % Total Trail Length in Km % Number of Parking Sites * % Number of Roadside Parking Opportunities* 54** % Number of Gateway Sites Not Applicable but +3 since 2006 Not applicable but 300% since 2006 * Parking lot facilities are areas where vehicles may be parked in identifiable parking areas off the main travelled roads. Roadside parking areas are locations where cars may be safely parked on the side of the road close to the Trail. ** This figure is somewhat misleading insofar as it indicates a reduction in subsequent years. However, the reduction was part of a rationalization in situations where several small, inadequate sites were replaced by ones of better overall quality in the same general areas. 24 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

25 Appendix B Trail Maps 25

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31 31 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

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33 33 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

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35 35 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

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37 37 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

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39 39 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

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41 41 Improvements to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail since the Adoption of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

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43 Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation The Gate House Dufferin Street North King City, Ontario L7B 1B3 Phone: