I n s I d e : 5 0 t h A n n I v e r s A r y P h o t o C o n t e s t W I n n e r s

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1 I n s I d e : 5 0 t h A n n I v e r s A r y P h o t o C o n t e s t W I n n e r s Bruce Trail VOL. 54, NO.3, SUMMER 2017 M A G A Z I N E The Paths to the Trail

2 save the month of october for our fourth annual hike-a-thon! Make your kilometres count this October - plan to be a part of our Hike-a-Thon in support of the Bruce Trail. Since 2014 the Bruce Trail Hike-a-Thon has raised over $68,000 to help ensure the future of the Bruce Trail s Conservation Corridor. Watch brucetrail.org for more details and plan on taking part in the fun this October.

3 S U MMER C O N T E N T S F e At u r e s 8 BTC Board of Directors: Governance Update Annual General Meeting Notice 12 Special Event Call of the Forest: The Forgotten Wisdom of Trees 17 The Bruce Trail has been named an inaugural Ontario Trails of Distinction by the Province 20 Friendship Trails - Costa Rica Calling! 22 The Paths to the Trail th Anniversary Photo & Story Contest 30 50th Anniversary Baton d e PA r t m e n t s 5 CEO s Message 6 Blazes 13 Volunteer Corner 14 Land Acquisition 18 Realizing the Dream 31 Trail Changes 32 Our Donors 34 General Store Photo: Melissa Krakar The Bruce Trail Conservancy is a charitable organization committed to establishing a conservation corridor containing a public footpath along the Niagara Escarpment, in order to protect its natural ecosystems and to promote environmentally responsible public access to this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. 24 Cover photo: Linda Swance W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 3

4 Bruce Trail M A G A Z I N E the BruCe trail ConservAnCy 55 Head St., Unit 101, Dundas, ON L9H 3H8 Toll-Free: Tel: info@brucetrail.org Website: brucetrail.org honorary President Dr. Philip Gosling Bruce trail Founders Raymond Lowes, Dr. Philip Gosling, Dr. Norman Pearson, Dr. Robert McLaren B o A r d o F d I r e C t o r s Warren Bell (Board Chair) John Grandy (Board Vice Chair & Land Securement Secretariat Chair) Lynn Allen Stephanie Bird (Finance & Audit Committee Chair) Walter Brewer Marlis Butcher Rob Graham (Governance Committee Chair) David Hass Brian Johnston Corrie Kellestine Bruce King David Lamb (Risk Committee Chair) Janice McClelland (Fundraising Committee Chair) Leah Myers Anjlee Patel Marietta Service Frank Schoenhoeffer Sue Simons Paul Toffoletti s ta F F Chief executive officer: Beth Gilhespy executive Assistant: Allison Wright director of Communications & Fund development: Marsha Russell director of Fundraising: Jan Graves outreach & engagement specialist: Laura Tuohy membership Administrator: Lyndsey Martin director of land Acquisition and management: Antoin Diamond GIs Cartographer: Scott Langley ecologists: Adam Brylowski, Brian Popelier director of Finance: Kevin Durfy Bookkeeper: Sharon Fennell director of organizational resources: Jackie Randle office Administrators: Pat Stainton, Cheryll Sullivan, Lori Thomson Design and Production: Rossi Piedimonte Design Inc. Bruce Trail Magazine is published quarterly by The Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC). Non-BTC related materials may not be the opinion of the BTC. Advertising herein does not imply the endorsement of the BTC. Trademarks of the BTC published herein are used with the permission of the BTC. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the BTC. Canadian Publications Mail Agreement # Return undeliverable copies to BTC, P.O. Box 857, Hamilton, ON L8N 3N9. Charitable Registration # RR B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

5 Chief Executive Officer s Message the trail turns 50 How did you feel when you realized your 50th birthday was rolling around? Did you think of the accomplishments that you could be proud of, as well as the ones that you re still chasing? Sounds pretty universal. Our own beautiful Bruce Trail is in the same boat. On the eve of the Bruce Trail celebrating its 50th Birthday (June 10, 2017) our accomplishments are plentiful and impressive, and there is so much more to come. To take stock of what has been done over the past 50 years, it s important for us to realize that 50 years ago land on the Escarpment had very little protection, while today, through our efforts, over 11,000 acres of Escarpment land is secure and safe from development. And it s all because of a band of dedicated, hard working individuals had a visionary idea: establish a footpath to raise awareness for the protection of the Niagara Escarpment. This vision has inspired hundreds of thousands of people since the 1960s to volunteer, donate and support preservation of the Niagara Escarpment. At the official opening of the Bruce Trail 50 years ago, the organization s President Cyler Hauch declared that the goal of a continuous unbroken trail stretching from Queenston to Tobermory was complete. But completion of the Bruce Trail was just the first step, and looking back we can see the enormity of the work that was still to come. So now that our Bruce Trail has turned 50, what can we celebrate? Pride in creating and maintaining a world-famous footpath that has been designated a Trail of Distinction by the Province of Ontario Our role in preserving more than 11,000 acres of Niagara Escarpment landscape The dedication of our 1,500+ volunteers, 9,400+ members and thousands of donors who support the Bruce Trail and our work in land preservation The engagement of hundreds of thousands each year in the exploration and appreciation of the landscape of the Niagara Escarpment The importance of nurturing a love of nature and exploration with new generations. This spring a 50th anniversary baton began its journey along the Bruce Trail, from Niagara to Tobermory. I was fortunate enough to slip out of the office for a few hours and join the baton on a stretch through Hamilton, accompanied by a lively group of Grade 3 and 4 students. The the joy on the kids faces as they took turns carrying the baton and the sound of their happy chatter was so affirming an encouraging sign for the future! And I thought to myself will these be the baton bearers, the members, the supporters, 50 years from now when we celebrate our 100th anniversary? And what will they say about what we ve accomplished? My hope in the next 50 years is that our work in Niagara Escarpment land preservation continues and accelerates, and that in 50 years we will have long since secured that beautiful ribbon of wilderness along the Niagara Escarpment that contains the Bruce Trail. I know we will be celebrated for playing a significant role in the protection of sensitive species and habitats, and in enhancing the ecological health of the Escarpment. And I believe we will find that delicate balance between recreation and conservation, and that the Bruce Trail will continue to be enjoyed by hundreds of thousands each year. What are your hopes for the Bruce Trail in the next 50 years? Beth Gilhespy CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Earl Kitchener students and the baton in Iroquoia Photo: Jackie Randle W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 5

6 BLAZES N e w s a n d E v e n t s f r o m t h e B r u c e T r a i l C l u b s niagara Content deadline for Blazes for the Fall 2017 issue is June 23, 2017 Send content to: Laura Tuohy, BTC Outreach & Engagement Specialist, at ltuohy@brucetrail.org Annual laura secord hike June 17 Enjoy a part of our Canadian heritage by hiking along the Bruce Trail from Laura Secord s Homestead in Queenston to DeCew House in Thorold. We are sure this 30 km hike was a challenge for Laura in a long dress and no Nikes but we have never heard any complaints. Follow her lead and rise to the challenge Registration is $25. Fee covers bus transfers, snacks and badge. The hike takes place rain or shine. Hikers are supported with checkpoints, snacks and hydration stations along the way. Laura might make an appearance to congratulate finishers. To register or for more details visit: kms-registration ; Event Co-ordinator: Debbie Demizio, ddemizio@bell.net, merritthon - november 11 Celebrate this Remembrance Day by taking a walk along an historic route. William Hamilton Merritt was creator of the Welland Canal. The Merritthon is a trek approximately 45 km along the first historic canal route. The hike begins at Port Colborne, follows the Welland Canal and moves onto the Merritt Trail in St Catharines to finish in Port Dalhousie. You can expect to keep pace with giant laker ships, see industrial remnants, murals and enjoy woods and streets along the way. Registration is $30. Fee covers bus transfers, snacks, water check points and a badge! Check niagarabrucetrailclub.org for registration; Event Co-ordinator: Jean & John Lucente, jslucente@cogeco.ca, IroQuoIA steeltown stomp september 9 Climb 1877 stairs along the Niagara Escarpment in Hamilton (6 sets of stairs: Chedoke-289, Dundurn-329, James-227, Wentworth-498, Kenilworth-229 and Uli s-305) and hike 10 km along the Bruce Trail, Chedoke Trail, Radial Trail and the Escarpment Rail Trail back to the beginning. This event is jointly hosted by the Niagara and Iroquoia Bruce Trail Clubs. Participants will be lead by hike leaders from both Clubs (20-25 hikers per leader) as there aren t any blazes for this event s route. Checkpoints will be at the turnaround point (at the top of Uli s Stairs) and at the end of the route (Chedoke parking lot). Fee: $25, covers registration, badge and checkpoints; Net Proceeds go to the BTC. Registration: Begins July 1. Register and pay online at Contact: Suzanne Macpherson (iroquoiabtcevents@gmail.com) or Anne Armstrong (hikingrandma@gmail.com) with any questions. Iroquoia end-to-end october & The annual Iroquoia Club End-to-End consists of four hikes over two weekends. The section is km long and each hike averages 30 km or more with one being 27.2 km. This is a challenging, but richly rewarding series of hikes. All hikes will start between 7:45 to 8:00 am at predetermined locations. A bus will take all participants to the start of the hike. Space is limited to the number of people on the bus. Volunteers will be at "check points" with water and snacks along the way. There is no leader. The hike will be completed independently and at your own pace, but it is expected that participants will be able to finish by 5:00 pm. The registration fee is $45 ($60 for nonmembers) for all four hikes, or $15 per day that you wish to hike. The fee covers the cost of transportation, entry to Mount Nemo Conservation Area for two days, snacks and receiving a Waterfall badge for those who complete all four hikes. Hikes will go rain or shine. The first weekend meeting location is at Mount Nemo Conservation Area (overflow parking area), 5317 Guelph Line, Milton, ON L9T 2X6. Check in is at 7:00 am with buses departing at 7:30 am. The second weekend meeting location is Mohawk 4 Ice Centre, 710 Mountain Brow Blvd. Hamilton, ON L8T 5A9. Check in is at 7:00 am with buses departing at 7:30 am. Your MUST register and pay online. There will be no cheques or cash accepted on any day of the event. Registration begins June 1 through Eventbrite at: For more information, visit: or contact Suzanne Macpherson by at iroquoiabtcevents@gmail.com or after September 1 by phone dufferin hi-land dufferin hi-land 1 day end-to-end June 24 Can you hike 56 kilometers in a day? Come and experience the beauty of the Dufferin Hi-Land section, plus the best of Dufferin County hospitality at our checkpoints. The bus leaves at 6:30 am from the Mono Community Centre parking lot in Mono Centre. To register send your cheque for $30.00 (members) or $35 (non-members) payable to Dufferin Hi-Land BTC to Dufferin Hi- Land BTC, PO Box 698, Alliston, ON, L9R 1V9. Please include your address and/or phone number and your Member number (if applicable). Registration is limited to 50 hikers. For further information or to pay by Interac transfer contact Peter Blackmere at or dhbtcvolunteercoordinator@gmail.com BeAver valley Beaver valley end-to-end september 2-3 & 9-10 Hike the km Beaver Valley Section over 2 weekends. Registration fee includes transportation, refreshments and the End-to-End badge. To register, please send a $35.00 cheque payable to 6 B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

7 the Beaver Valley BTC, along with your name, phone number and/or address, to: BVBTC, PO Box 3251, Meaford, ON N4L 1A5. For further information contact Glenda at or Space is limited so please register early. sydenham sydenham end-to-end may, June, sept. & oct. The Sydenham Club is pleased to offer another End-to-End Hike in the beautiful Sydenham Section in With a total trail length of about 175 km, each hike will average 21 km and be spread over four weekends / eight days: May 6-7, June 10-11, September 9-10, and October This promises to be a vigorous, interesting, scenic and satisfying series of hikes. The cost is $80 per person (members) or $100 (non-members) for all 8 hikes. This fee covers daily bus transportation, snacks, refreshments and the Blantyreto-Wiarton SBTC E2E badge upon completion. Space is limited so register early. To register, please Bill Snel at sydenhame2e@gmail.com providing your name, address and BTC member number (if applicable) or send the information with a cheque payable to the Sydenham Bruce Trail Club to Bill Snel at rd Ave W, Owen Sound, ON N4K 4T2. Alternatively, we will allow payment through Interac transfer. Please contact Bill to arrange payment, or for any questions, at sydenhame2e@ gmail.com or Peninsula end-to-end August & september The Peninsula Club is hosting an End-to- End package of 8 bus shuttle hikes to be held over 4 weekends: Aug , Aug , Sept , and Sept Oct. 1. Registration opens April 8 and participation will be limited to 96 hikers. There will be an optional budget accommodation plan that includes a camp bunk with breakfast and lunch. A special PBTC 50th Anniversary Badge will be awarded upon completion of any End-to-End hike of our section, completed between January and December S A V E T H E D A T E Bruce trail day sunday, october 1, 2017 A trail-wide celebration of hiking a conservation along the Niagara Escarpment and a great kick-off to our month long Bruce Trail Hike-a-Thon! Watch for details at brucetrail.org/pages/bruce-trail-day PenInsulA Peninsula Club turns 50 in 2017! Let the celebrations begin on the Peninsula as the Club turns 50! Be sure to visit our new website follow our Blogs, sign up to Never Miss an Update and Like Us on Facebook. You don t want to miss any of the activities. visit Club websites for more news, events and hikes. Links to all 9 Clubs can be found at brucetrail.org/pages/trail/bruce-trail-clubs. W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 7

8 BTC Board of Directors: Governance Update B y W a r r e n B e l l, A n j l e e P a t e l a n d r o b G r a h a m We know reading about governance on the BtC Board of directors isn t everyone s idea of a real page turner but we wanted to share some proposals with you. Before we do, perhaps some context would be helpful. As you know, government legislation concerning endangered species, the Greenbelt and the protection of biospheres impacts the BTC like never before. We know people are an essential part of biodiversity. Together our work has strengthened access to, and the protection of, the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere. We have been doing this for a half-century. Meanwhile, population growth and urbanization in Southern Ontario are accelerating. Our mission, values and strategies are as important now as they have ever been. At the same time, government regulation for not-for-profit organizations continues to evolve. It s in the backdrop of these challenges that the BTC s Board of Directors approved changes to its bylaws on February 4, 2017 as part of a two-year review of our governance, in an effort to strengthen our Board, to ensure our own regulatory compliance and to grow our fundraising to preserve more of the Bruce Trail. Thousands of us volunteer our time, and a great many of us donate our retirement lives, to the Bruce Trail Conservancy. Most of us belong to one of our nine Clubs. The Clubs are the backbone of the BTC. To put it succinctly, we propose changing the way Directors come on to the Board, while maintaining Club representation on the Board, and without making any changes to the way the Clubs govern themselves. In a nutshell these proposed changes codify a nominations and an elections process for all BTC Members wishing to serve on the Board of Directors while reserving nine of the nineteen seats on the Board, one for each Club. These proposed by-law changes are subject to the Membership s approval at the BTC s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on September 23, To facilitate the governance review, the Board sought external legal counsel from the law firm Fasken Martineau that specializes in not-for-profit (NFP) law and that worked closely with our Board s Governance Committee; the cost of this was donated. In addition, one of our Directors works as in-house legal counsel at Infrastructure Ontario and advises on general corporate and governance matters. Professional legal advice helped guide the Board s work and carefully brings us into line with existing legal requirements and anticipated new provincial legislation. These changes pass all legal tests. It s proposed all nominees will stand for election to the Board subject and to the same minimum requirements those mandated by the Province of Ontario and those proposed in the BTC s own by-laws and policies. A complete reading of these may be found on our website. Here are the basic requirements: 1. To be eligible and qualify to serve as a Director, a person: shall be a Member in good standing of the BTC; shall be at least 18 years of age; shall not be an undischarged bankrupt; shall not be found under the Substitute Decisions Act, 1992 or under the Mental Health Act to be incapable of managing property; shall not be found to be incapable by any court in Canada or elsewhere; and shall not be an ineligible individual under the Income Tax Act. Also; 2. When the Nominating Team has advertised for vacancies, all nominees must have delivered to the registered office of the BTC a completed application form signed by three BTC Members before the end of business on a date determined by the Nominating Team. The nominee must be a Member of the BTC. The nominee must not be an employee of the BTC. All nominees, recommended or not, shall go through the nominations process and, in the very least, be compliant with the nomination requirements of Provincial law and the by-laws of the BTC. From time to time the Board will require specialized skills. These might be in areas including law, finance or government relations. Where skill gaps are identified, the nominations process will work to fill them. At the same time, the human resources of any Club must, and always will, be taken into account. In other words, if for example a Club doesn t happen to have an accountant and the Board is looking to recruit one, the Club s nominee will not be excluded because of this. In the unlikely event a Club s nominee was somehow not accepted by the BTC Board (e.g. a nominee did not meet minimum standards set out in provincial law or the BTC s by-laws and policies) then the Club would be asked to submit another nominee. In the even more unlikely event a second nominee was somehow not acceptable to the Board for the same reasons then, as a last resort, a Director would be found to develop ties with the Club or the Club President would be invited to attend BTC Board meetings and voice the Club s perspective until a suitable nominee is found. According to provincial law, only the Membership of the BTC may elect and remove Directors to the BTC Board. Making changes to the governance structure of every Club to get around this basic legal requirement would entail mandating governance changes throughout the Clubs leading to more complex governance structures and voting procedures. It s more straightforward to modify the rules of the BTC Board by treating everyone the same. The nominations process contemplates having the Board put forward a recommended slate of nominees where the number of candidates equals the number of vacancies on the Board. Consider a year in which two Directors retire, one from a Club, the other not from a Club. This would result in two vacancies on the Board. Once the Board follows the proposed nominations process and endorses two candidates, ensuring one from the Club, another not, these names are placed on the recommended slate of candidates for election at the AGM. At the AGM, a motion will be moved to elect the Board s recommended slate; if 8 B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

9 Voting at the 2016 Annual General Meeting the motion passes, the two nominees are elected and that s the end of the process. Suppose, however, the recommended slate was voted down by the Membership at the AGM and that, besides the two candidates on the recommended slate, there were two other candidates who weren t recommended by the Board but who still wanted to run and had gone through the nominations process, making four candidates in total. Then the election would go to an open ballot with the four candidates names. In this scenario it s possible a candidate on the recommended slate may not be elected, hence the reason for using the recommended slate to assist the Clubs in the election process. The Board recommended slate signals to the BTC Membership a proposed Board for the upcoming year that appropriately represents Club interests and reflects a necessary skills composition. As mentioned, a complete reading of the proposed changes may be found on the BTC website and are included below. The by-laws will appear in the next Bruce Trail Magazine before the Annual General Meeting. It might not be this summer s bestseller, but we want to keep you fully informed. Should you have any questions or feedback, please contact Rob Graham by at rgraham@derwyn.ca. Enjoy your summer on the Bruce Trail and thanks for reading this! Warren Bell, BTC Board Chair Anjlee Patel, BTC Board Director Rob Graham, BTC Board Director Photo: Jackie Randle Gov nominations for the Board Policy Policy 1. In furtherance of its mission, the Board of the Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) strives to be among the most skilled, balanced and successful not-for-profit Boards in Canada. Achieving the highest standards of governance, the Board works as a team to drive forward the mission, values and strategies of the BTC. The nominations process to be followed by the BTC is detailed in this Nominations Policy and should be read in conjunction with the BTC Elections Policy. 2. The BTC has a robust and transparent nominations process; this process is geared towards the identification and nomination of a diverse, skills-based slate of candidates and to ensure that all candidates have been selected through the same process. director vacancy 3. The number of vacancies to be filled at any Annual Meeting will be determined by the number of Directors who have left the Board or have completed a first or second term. Interim appointees who are filling a position created by a mid-year vacancy must also go through the subsequent nominations and elections processes to remain on the Board. Core Competencies and desired skills 4. Provincial law and the by-laws of the BTC set forth minimum standards for all nominees. There are core competencies a Director is reasonably expected to have. Core competencies are complemented by additional desired skills that can vary from year-to-year based on the changing needs of the Board. The nominations process strives to match the best mix of nominees attributes to the needs of the Board. 5. The Governance Committee is responsible for administering Board, peer and selfassessment to identify performance and skill gaps used to populate the Board. nominating team 6. The Governance Committee appoints a Nominating Team comprised of members of the Governance Committee, which may include a minority of other Board members or BTC members. The Nominating Team shall not include Directors seeking election. Members of the Governance Committee seeking election shall recuse themselves from the nominations process. 7. The duty of the Nominating Team is to perform the preliminary work necessary to assist in the nominations process, including advertising, interviewing and other functions as required by the Governance Committee and to submit a report (including a slate of recommended nominees) to the Governance Committee for its consideration; the Governance Committee then recommends a slate of nominees to the Board for its consideration. The Board, in turn, presents a recommended slate of nominees to the BTC members at the Annual Meeting. 8. The Nominating Team shall publish a report in an issue of the Bruce Trail Magazine (or any successor thereto) and on the BTC website prior to the Annual Meeting listing the names and a brief profile of individuals on the recommended slate and of any other nominees. recommended slate 9. The nominations process shall determine a recommended slate consisting of nominees recommended through the nominations process and approved by the Board whose core competencies and desired skills best match the requirements of the Board. The number of these nominees will match the number of vacancies on the Board. This slate is recommended to the Membership at the Annual Meeting for election. 10. Individuals who have gone through the nominations process who are not selected to be on the recommended slate may appear on the ballot as other nominees. existing directors seeking re-election 11. Directors are elected to three-year terms. There is no automatic right to renewal for existing Directors to another term. Every Director wishing to run for a second or third three-year term will go through the nominations W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 9

10 continued BTC Board of Directors: Governance Update process contemplated in this BTC Nominations Policy. The Governance Committee may, at its discretion, recommend, or not recommend, an existing Director standing for a second or third term based on the skill requirements of the Board, diversity and Director performance. 12. Existing Directors encouraged by the Governance Committee and recommended to stand for a second or third term shall run for re-election on the recommended slate at the Annual Meeting. Directors not recommended for re-election are, nevertheless, able to run as other nominees at the Annual Meeting as long as they meet the minimum requirements as set out in Provincial law and in the BTC by-laws. Clubs and Board Composition 13. There shall be nineteen Directors on the BTC Board, who serve at the pleasure of the BTC Membership and owe fiduciary duties to the BTC. There is only one type of Director. In the spirit of ensuring Board composition includes sufficient affinity to the nine BTC Clubs, each Club has the right to propose a candidate to the nominations process who has sufficient ties with the Club to be a Director of the BTC. 14. Each Club is encouraged to participate in the nominations process. While the nominations process needs to balance the human resource capabilities of a Club with the needs of the Board, the nomination process follows the same process for all nominees taking into account core competencies and desired skills, the Provincial law and BTC by-laws. 15. In the event that a Club is unable to nominate a candidate that satisfies the core competencies and desired skills, the Board shall ask the Club to submit another nominee for the Governance Committee s consideration; if the Governance Committee is not satisfied with this second nominee, the Governance Committee shall be tasked with finding a nominee with the necessary core competencies and desired skills who shall be asked to represent the Club at the Board. This Director shall be expected to actively engage with the Club. The Board s skill requirements shall be communicated to the Club Presidents as soon as possible in the nominations process. nominee requirements 16. When the Nominating Team has advertised for vacancies, all nominees must have delivered to the registered office of the BTC a completed application form signed by three BTC Members before the end of business on a date determined by the Nominating Team. The nominee must be a Member of the BTC. The nominee must not be an employee of the BTC. All nominees, recommended or not, shall go through the nominations process and, in the very least, be compliant with the nomination requirements of Provincial law and the by-laws of the BTC. Gov elections to the Board Policy Policy 1. This Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) Elections Policy shall be posted on the BTC website for public knowledge. The elections process to be followed by the BTC is detailed in this Elections Policy. The BTC Elections Policy should be read in conjunction with the BTC Nominations Policy. Board vacancy 2. The number of vacancies to be filled at the Annual Meeting will be determined by (i) the number of Directors seeking re-election to a second or third term and (ii) the number of Directors who have left the Board, and/or (iii) the requirement that any interim appointees filling a mid-year vacancy go through the subsequent nominations and elections processes to remain on the Board. If there are no vacancies in a given year, there is no election. elections Process 3. The process for the election of Directors at the Annual Meeting shall be as follows: a) The election shall be supervised by an election officer appointed by the Governance Committee, subject to the general authority of the Board Chair or delegate. b) In the case of an election where a ballot is cast, the election officer shall be responsible for the balloting process and shall act as scrutinizer. First election motion 4. At the start of the election, the first motion put to the Members shall be a vote on the 2016 Annual General Meeting recommended slate as a whole, comprised of the recommended nominees whose number matches the number of vacancies on the Board. 5. If the Members approve the recommended slate, that is the end of the process and the recommended slate is elected. 6. If the Members reject the recommended slate, the election moves to a vote on each nominee. 7. In this case, a ballot will contain the names in alphabetical order of nominees on the recommended slate and any other nominees. 8. As the decision to elect Directors must be made by resolution of the Members, where there is a tie, both good governance and applicable laws require the Members to use run off votes until the Board has been elected. 9. The results of the election shall be posted and announced immediately upon the conclusion of the election. 10. In accordance with the by-laws, only Members who have held membership for at least fifty (50) days prior to the date of the Annual Meeting may vote in the election. The vigorous nominations process underpinning the elections policy has been put in place to ensure all Clubs have a presence on the BTC Board. Where contested elections arise and a specific Club finds they do not have ties to a Director, the Club must notify the Chair of the Board and efforts must be made to (1) have an existing Director to develop links to the Club at issue, or (2) where (1) is not appropriate, to ensure the Club President is an invitee to all Board meetings until such time where a Director with sufficient ties is put in place. Photo: Kevin Durfy 10 B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

11 2017 Annual General Meeting mark your calendars now for the Bruce trail Conservancy s 50th Anniversary Annual General meeting september 22-24, 2017 Members from all Bruce Trail Clubs are invited to attend the BTC s Annual General Meeting. The AGM weekend will include a social on Friday evening, business meeting and workshops throughout Saturday, and hikes on Sunday. Saturday workshops will include a visit to Spirit Tree Cidery, a presentation on hiking with children, exploring art stuhosted by the toronto Bruce trail Club at the Teatro Conference and Event Centre, 121 Chisholm Drive, Milton, ON L9T 4A6 dios in the village of Glen Williams, a raptor encounter at Mountsberg, riding the rails at the Halton County Radial Railway, hiking at Crawford Lake and the Bill Baker Environmental Hike. Sunday hikes will all depart from Hilton Falls Conservation Area and will include an exploration of the new Kythera Hiking Friendship Trail route. registration begins in August. More information to follow in the Fall 2017 issue of Bruce Trail Magazine and online at brucetrail.org W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 11

12 Join members of the Caledon Hills Bruce Trail Club & friends for a film screening of: Sunday, October 15th, 2:30 pm at Gorge Cinema 43 Mill Street West in Elora, Ontario Call of the Forest: The Forgotten Wisdom of Trees Beth Gilhespy, Bruce Trail Conservancy CEO, opens the program with stunning visuals highlighting the over 11,000 acres of Niagara Escarpment land that the BTC has preserved for future generations. And then in this Canadian film, narrated by Gordon Pinsent, We follow visionary scientist, conservationist and author, Diana Beresford-Kroeger, on her journey to the most beautiful forests of the northern hemisphere. From the sacred sugi and cedar wood forests of Japan, the ancient Raheen Wood of Ireland, the walnut and redwood trees of America, to the great boreal forest of Canada, Beresford-Kroeger tells us the amazing stories behind the history and legacy of these ancient forests while also explaining the science of trees and the irreplaceable roles they play in protecting and feeding the planet. This film sold out in Winnipeg for 8 weeks! To guarantee your seat in the cinema, please register with Janice at janicedon86@gmail.com. Seating is limited. Please act now over 50% of seats already reserved! Admission by donation. Donations to the Bruce Trail Conservancy Escarpment Legacy Campaign gratefully accepted in advance or at the door.* We are raising funds as 40% of the Bruce Trail s Conservation Corridor is still vulnerable to development. Your donation will help the BTC secure a conservation corridor along the Niagara Escarpment containing the Bruce Trail. Conservationist Diana Beresford-Kroeger *After you receive your registration confirmation, you may wish to make your donation in advance via cheque payable to the Caledon Hills Bruce Trail Club, mailed to Jean Kerins, 244 Queens Drive, Toronto, M9N 2H7 or bring your donation to the theatre in an envelope. In either case, please include a note with your name, complete mailing address, phone number and address. Donations of $10 or more receive a charitable gift income tax receipt. (Without your full mailing address, we cannot send you an income tax receipt.) Note: There is some public parking in Elora, on Metcalfe St., just steps across the bridge from the Gorge Cinema. Otherwise, street parking. We encourage car-pooling to this event. Please be at the Gorge Cinema at 2:10 pm so that all can be seated for a 2:30 pm sharp start time! (Event ends at 4:30 pm) Climate change is happening. What can we do about it? It will start with a shovel and an acorn, but we might just change the world. Diana Beresford-Kroeger 12 B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

13 Volunteer Corner C A l l F o r v o lu n t e e r s - W E C A N T D O I T W I T H O U T Y O U There are many options for becoming a Bruce Trail volunteer. This is your chance to get involved, share your experiences, be a part of a team, learn some new skills and develop lasting friendships. If you are interested in becoming a BTC volunteer, visit brucetrail.org and complete the Volunteer Application brucetrail.org/forms/volunteer ontario volunteer service Award Winners This year three BTC volunteers were honoured with Ontario Volunteer Service awards: Gary Beaudoin and Rose-Mary Mitter for 10 years of volunteering, and Hamish Duthie for 20 years of volunteering with the Bruce Trail Conservancy. Congratulations to Gary, Rose-Mary and Hamish! Call for nominations volunteer of the year Do you know someone who has excelled at volunteering for the Bruce Trail this year? Nominate them for the Volunteer of the Year Award. Nominators should submit their nominee s information, including name, address, phone number and a maximum of 250 words as to why this person should be named as a Volunteer of the Year. Nominations should be submitted to Jackie Randle at jrandle@brucetrail.org by June 30th. Call for nominations honorary membership The BTC Honorary Membership is a prestigious award given to members who have made significant contributions to the Bruce Trail Conservancy at both the Club and Conservancy levels. The award is a certificate and a complimentary lifetime membership to the Bruce Trail Conservancy. The deadline for submissions is June 30th. For more information and a nomination form please contact Jackie Randle at jrandle@brucetrail.org I wanted to do something with my family and get my children interested in the Niagara Escarpment and the Bruce Trail. The BTC helped improve my health. The more I volunteered the healthier I became. It helped me keep busy. Marc Kelsey (New Trail Captain Peninsula Club) have you ever wondered what motivates our Bruce trail volunteers? Bruce Manion (Hike Leader and Trail Captain Niagara and Iroquoia Clubs) I volunteer to make a difference in conserving the Escarpment. I enjoy introducing new/potential members to the wonders of the Bruce Trail. Les Babbage (Hike Director Dufferin Hi-Land Club) I wanted to give back to my community with something I am passionate about. Troy Mitchell (Trail Monitor Iroquoia Club) I enjoy hiking the Bruce Trail and it s my way of saying thank you to everyone that makes the trail possible. OJ Grolman (Trail Captain Blue Mountains) It is important for me to continue to develop what began 50 years ago. Patricia Barton (Land Steward Peninsula Club) The BTC is the best thing about my retirement. Louise Carberry (Club Board Caledon Hills Club) I volunteer to help further the preservation dream for my grandchildren. Diane McKenzie (Fundraising Caledon Hills Club) W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 13

14 Land Acquisition Preserving the Bruce Trail Conservation Corridor has often been described as piecing together a jigsaw puzzle. It couldn t be more true this quarter as we secured three parcels of land in very different locations. Together they have conserved just over 230 acres and 1.8 km of Bruce Trail. Pyper donation, nelles estates Conservation Project niagara section Grimsby; Bruce Trail Reference, Map 5, between km 79.4 and 75.5 Dwayne and Barbara Pyper epitomize the philanthropic spirit that has built and sustains the BTC. After granting a handshake agreement for the Bruce Trail to cross their property for many years they decided to secure it once and for all before they downsized. Memories of their children playing on the slope and hiking the Bruce Trail as it passed behind their home was something they wanted to preserve and make available for future generations. Landowner Barbara Pyper explains We firmly believe that we should share the beauty of the Escarpment with others and we appreciate all the work that the BTC does to make that possible for everyone. The Pypers donation consists of a very critical 0.41 acres that secures approximately 36 metres of Bruce Trail, without which the Trail would have to be rerouted on to the road. In addition to supporting the BTC s goals this donation of land also contributes towards the Nelles Estates Neighbourhood Conservation Project, a local initiative started in 2009 by neighbours along Dorchester Drive in Grimsby to preserve the Escarpment behind their homes. The BTC extends their gratitude to the Pyper family and pledges to The Pypers Donation care for their gift in perpetuity. Photo: Antoin Diamond Phase two of the daphne and Gordon nicholls nature reserve Beaver valley section Euphrasia, Grey Highlands; Bruce Trail Reference, Map 28, south of km You will recall from the Winter 2016/2017 Bruce Trail Magazine that the memory of Daphne Nicholls life was honoured by her family and friends through the creation of the Daphne and Gordon Nicholls Nature Reserve. The Nicholls have been long-time supporters of the Bruce Trail Conservancy and this gift is a testament to their belief in the value of nature and their commitment to making nature accessible to all who wish to explore. This Nature Reserve is located on the north side of County Road 40 in Euphrasia, Grey Highlands. As planned, the Reserve was secured in two phases. Today we are happy to report that we have secured the final property and the Nature Reserve protects 550 m of Bruce Trail Optimum Route and a total of 30 acres. Daphne and Gordon Nicholls Nature Reserve Kemble rock nature reserve sydenham section Northwest of the Village of Kemble; Bruce Trail Reference Map 34 The Bruce Trail passed through the Kemble Rock land from the 1960s until 1979, when permission was withdrawn and the trail rerouted to adjacent Coles Sideroad, a muddy route shared by ATVs and off-road vehicles. When the property was put up for sale in 2016 the Bruce Trail Conservancy quickly mobilized to acquire it, with the support of our many generous donors. Kemble Rock Nature Reserve lies within a part of the Kemble Forest Regional Life Science Area, which is an important link in a 30 km regional natural corridor. Kemble Rock s impressive 200 acres include regenerating fields, meadows, a wetland, and a gentle rise up to the steep craggy cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment. Its acquisition secures 1.3 km of the Bruce Trail Optimum Route. The large Sugar Maple forests provide for a healthy amount of interior forest habitat, and are important for species such as the Pileated Woodpecker, Black-throated Blue Warbler and Winter Wren. The regenerating apple and hawthorn fields are excellent habitat for species such as the Blue-winged Warbler and Brown Thrasher, which both require a shrubby, semi-open landscape. The meadows that dot the landscape are home to the federally and provincially protected Bobolink and Eastern Meadowlark, both grass-nesting species that have experienced significant population declines. The rocky escarpment slopes provide habitat for the Endangered Butternut tree as well as the globally rare Hart s Tongue Fern, a species of Special Concern, and the low-lying Swamp Maple-Black Ash swamp is ideal habitat for the Northern Waterthrush. Planning for the route of the Bruce Trail on the Kemble Rock Nature Reserve lands is Kemble Rock Nature Reserve currently underway. Photo: Gordon Nicholls Photo: Beth Gilhespy 14 B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

15 Right now we have a wonderful opportunity to conserve more precious natural land along the Bruce Trail. In a time when the Ontario landscape is increasingly under pressure from development, is it reassuring to know that caring supporters are willing to take action to help grow and protect the Bruce Trail s Conservation Corridor. With your help the Bruce Trail Conservancy has preserved thousands of acres of Escarpment land. But there is still more land at risk. Please give today and ensure future generations reap all the benefits of a healthy, vibrant Niagara Escarpment. Trout Lily You are ensuring that this conservation corridor grows. Thanks to our donors, the Bruce Trail Conservancy has been responsible for the preservation of over 10,000 acres of Niagara Escarpment land since the 1970s. Our nature reserves span the length of the Escarpment, protecting forests, streams, wetlands and meadows. Photo: Brian Popelier Now two more conservation opportunities are available and we need to act quickly. Irish Ridge Nature Reserve Irish Ridge Nature Reserve lies within the Sydenham section of the Bruce Trail, near the Irish Block Settlement area east of Owen Sound. Its mature hardwood forest is home to the endangered Butternut tree and is bisected by several channels of a clear, cold water stream. Sitting adjacent to two existing Bruce Trail Conservancy nature reserves, Irish Ridge will expand our conservation impact in the area. Our goal with the Irish Ridge Nature Reserve is to retain 30 acres of sensitive conservation land, and return 120 arable acres to its original agricultural purpose via a future sale. Securing land is the most costly endeavor of the Bruce Trail Conservancy and the sale of the non-conservation farmland will generate funds for future conservation land acquisitions. Lindsay Nature Reserve lies further north, in the Peninsula section of the Bruce Trail near Dyer s Bay. Nestled between protected areas to the north and south, this relatively small nature reserve will have a big impact for conservation by preserving wildlife connections. At 25 acres, the Lindsay Nature Reserve s undisturbed natural setting provides key habitats for many species. Its rocky forest and a thicket swamp offer important breeding habitat for the Blue Winged Warbler, White Throated Sparrow and Eastern Towhee. The Lindsay Nature Reserve is also prime habitat for the shy Massasauga Rattlesnake, a Species at Risk. The Massasauga is found only in four spots in all of Ontario, one of which is the Bruce Peninsula. You can protect the natural habitat on which this species survival depends. Photo: Brian Popelier continued

16 Blue Winged Warbler An anonymous Conservancy donor, one who has made conservation his priority, is ready to challenge all of us to make conservation a priority by donating $127,000 in hopes that others will give generously. Our goal is to raise an additional $127,000 by June 30 to secure these nature reserves, and to support the associated programs to manage these lands and carry out other mission-based programs. Photo: Brian Popelier The BTC has a successful and practical approach to helping to mitigate the environmental issues we all see and feel. Your continued commitment will ensure the next generation truly benefits from our work today. Thank you for your continued support, Beth Gilhespy Chief Executive Officer, The Bruce Trail Conservancy PS Please consider making a special 50th Anniversary gift to the BTC. This year marks 50 years since the official opening of the Bruce Trail. Help us ensure the next 50 years are even better! We thank you for your support. Lindsay Nature Reserve Photo: Brian Popelier Photo: Brian Popelier Yes! I want to help the BTC add the Irish Ridge and Lindsay Nature Reserves to the Bruce Trail s Conservation Corridor. Enclosed is my: Single Gift: Monthly Pledge: $ Per Month. Pledge start date: Our Promise: If you at any time, for any reason, wish to change or cancel your pledge, you can do so by contacting us. A tax receipt for your pledge will be issued at the end of the year. Donate by: Cheque Visa Mastercard (payable to The Bruce Trail Conservancy or marked Void if pledging) Card #: Expiry Date: Signature: Name: P.O. Box 857 Hamilton, Ontario L8N 3N9 Tel: or Charitable Reg. # RR Your is confidential and will not be shared with 3rd parties. Please send me information about including the BTC in my will. I have included the BTC in my will.

17 The Bruce Trail has been named an inaugural Ontario Trail of Distinction by the Province the new ontario trails of distinction (otd) Program is a legacy initiative of the 150th anniversary of ontario and is designed to showcase and celebrate distinctive trails in the province. In a press release Minister Eleanor McMahon, Ministry of Tourism, Sport and Culture acknowledged the Bruce Trail as an inaugural Ontario Trail of Distinction, noting These inaugural Ontario Trails of Distinction exemplify the best of what Ontario has to offer and are distinctive for a combination of connectivity, recreational experience, heritage features, and environmental and Indigenous importance. Congratulations to the other Inaugural Ontario Trails of Distinction: The Trans Canada Trail Ontario, The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, The Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs Trans Ontario Provincial (TOP) Trails and The Greenbelt Route. Photo: Photo: Daniel K. Wilson Photo: Laura Tuohy W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 17

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19 yogashala linking mind, Body and the Bruce trail The First Annual Yogashala Yogathon in support of the Bruce Trail Conservancy was held on January 28th in Waterdown, with the idea of bringing the community together while giving back to a worthwhile organization. Over 60 enthusiastic participants, from novice to expert, took part in yoga classes that day and raised $5,000 for the Bruce Trail Conservancy, while 27 participants became new BTC members. The Yogashala event organizers Lindsay Gordon and Cheri Demenna were thrilled with the turnout and are planning another similar event outside this summer. We chose the Bruce Trail because it s around us and a lot of people here use it, explained Lindsay. All of our teachers volunteered their time and generously St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church let us use their Parish Centre for the day!. Steve Brown, Yogashala member and Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club volunteer (in green t-shirt in the photo), was also a strong supporter of the new event as it brought both of his personal interests together. The Yogashala Yogathon was a great opportunity to raise awareness of and support for the BTC within a keen group. Adventure Auction The opportunity for truly unique adventure drew many Bruce Trail supporters to this year s online Adventure Auction in April. On the virtual auction block was an 8- day expedition cruise for two to Sable Island, generously donated by Adventure Canada. At the end of 10 day auction, $7,400 was raised for the Bruce Trail Conservancy. Thank you to all who placed a bid. Congratulations and bon voyage to winners Bob and Anita Cunningham! Leave Them A Natural Legacy For information about the benefits of making a bequest or becoming a Heritage Club Member, please contact: Marsha Russell, Director of Communications and Fund Development The Bruce Trail Conservancy P.O. Box 857, Hamilton, ON, L8N 3N ext. 251 All inquiries will be kept confidential. W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 19

20 Friendship Trails - Costa Rica Calling! B y r o s r o s s e t t i Costa Rica has been calling to me since January That is when, as Beaver Valley Bruce Trail Club President, I received an from Jackie Randle (coordinator of BTC s Friendship Trails Program) asking whether our Club would be interested in partnering with the Pacific Slope Trail / Sendero Pacifico in Costa Rica. Friendship Trails are similar to twinned towns, whereby trails in different countries team up to promote the culture and benefits of walking/hiking at an international level whilst boosting tourism and local economies. The Bruce Trail Conservancy was one of the founding members of the World Trails Network in 2011, and in September of that year the first BTC Friendship Trail was established when a section of the Bruce Trail in Caledon Hills was twinned with the JeJu Olle Trail in South Korea. Before the end of this year, 2017, all 9 BTC Clubs will have a Friendship Trail partnership. The Beaver Valley Friendship Trail is a 6.8 km section of the Falling Waters Trail between Hoggs Falls (km 63.3, Map 26) and the BTC's parking lot on Johnston s Sideroad at km 70.1 (Map 26). It was opened with an inaugural hike by 54 people and a ceremony on June 7th In addition to various dignitaries who offered speeches of congratulations to our Club and support for the BTC, we were delighted to welcome two guests from Costa Rica: Nat Scrimshaw and Kay Chornook. A month later, Joëlle Martin and I reciprocated by attending the Sendero Pacifico Friendship Trail opening ceremony and inaugural hike in the small Monteverde community of San Luis. While in San Luis, Joëlle and I were guided by Nat Scrimshaw on a hike on the Sendero Pacifico, which included the 6 km section identified as the Friendship Trail, and an overnight stay in the hiking hut at Amapala. With darkness descending suddenly at 6 pm and only candles and our headlamps for light, we got to talking and learned more about Nat s vision for the Sendero Pacifico. His plan is for it to extend from the mountains of the Monteverde Cloud Forest to the mangrove swamps of the Gulf of Nicoya on Costa Rica s west coast. It was only then that I realized that the Trail was still under development and had an idea as to how to further foster our friendship: organize groups of BTC volunteers to assist Nat and local volunteers from the small communities that would be linked by the Sendero Pacifico. On December 4th 2016, the first group of 11 BTC Friendship Trail volunteers departed from Toronto for San Jose on what would prove to be a most memorable working-vacation experience. The group included 6 Beaver Valley Club members: Lotte Hedges, Mike Osborn, Marg and Will Overton, Margaret Yaraskavitch and myself; Laura and Ron Heutschi from the Iroquoia Club; Sandra Howe and Henk van Brakel from the Sydenham Club; and John Borley from Photo: Marg Yaraskavitch Photo: Nat Scrimshaw 20 B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

21 Photo: Ros Rossetti to learn more about some of the places ros mentions, visit: UGACR: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: Monteverde Butterfly Gardens and Biodiversity Centre: For more on Friendship trails visit: brucetrail.org/pages/trail/friendship-trails and worldtrailsnetwork.org the Toronto Club. This multi-club composition resulted in new inter-club friendships as we worked and played hard together. While in San Luis for the first week, we stayed in eco-cabinas on the University of Georgia, Costa Rica campus (UGACR). Described as a living lab for sustainable development, the campus is 155 acres in size with only 10% containing buildings, leaving the majority of the campus situated in federally protected but privately owned natural forests. UGACR accommodates about 100 students, faculty and visitors at any one time - not just faculty and students from the USA main campus but other student groups wanting to study the environment and rich diversity of species in Costa Rica. The standard of accommodation, meals and educational facilities is excellent. The working conditions on the trail were ideal for the first three days: warm sunshine with cool breezes. Work on the trail was scheduled from 8 am to 1:30 pm which included a 1.5 km hike each way to and from the work site. Our crew accomplished approximately 1 km of trail widening by side-hill grubbing and levelling with pick-mattocks and shovels; built 2 sets of a dozen steps each using wood obtained by demolishing an old cattle corral; and installed half a dozen water-deflecting bars also using wood from the old corral. Each day, we were accompanied by volunteers from San Luis. Their tool of choice for trail work is the machete. The beginning of December usually marks the end of the rainy season but heavy rains returned, making trail work planned for the 4th and 5th days impossible. Instead, on one day we hiked on the Friendship Trail further up the mountain from our work site it was almost too wet to hike! and on the second wet day we attended a Quaker Friends Community Christmas Market, visited the Monteverde Cheese Factory for delicious ice-creams, and toured the Monteverde Education Institute. Afternoons were spent in variety of activities: local tours of a coffee farm, sugar cane and citrus fruit farm, the UGACR botanical and medicinal plants garden, and a small soaps and lotions enterprise. Enthusiastic early-risers learned how to milk the cows on UGACR s organic farm and had a tour of the campus biodigester. On our scheduled Free Day we visited the world renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. The trails were well marked and enabled us to fully experience the delights of lush vegetation, colourful flowers and butterflies, neck-breakingly tall trees, waterfalls, the continental divide, sightings of sloths and capuchin monkeys, and be terrified by the loud growling calls of howler monkeys. A couple of visits were made to the nearby town of St. Elena where any number of eco-tourism attractions are available for a fee. I was with the group that chose to visit the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens and Biodiversity Centre (Insects) a most enjoyable educational experience. The naturalist staff at UGACR also contributed to our education and enriched our Costa Rican visit. We found it difficult to choose a selection of evening activities from the extensive, no cost activities list but ended up agreeing on a night walk to see insects, roosting birds, moths etc.; a Monteverde Cloud Forest movie; presentations on the history & culture, birds, and mammals of Costa Rica. One of the naturalists shared his research on a terrestrial and tree canopy camera trap project; and several of us had great fun learning how to dance merengue! The week flew by and all to soon we were saying farewell to our San Luis friends who hosted a dessert and coffee party for us on our final night. My goodbyes were tempered by the fact that I d be returning with a second group of BTC volunteers this time ten people at the end of February Others in the first group have asked me to put their names on the list for a third group of BTC volunteers that I will be co-organizing with Nat Scrimshaw for February 2018 surely a mark of the success of this Friendship Trail collaboration. In addition to Friendship Trail working-vacations in Costa Rica, there are guided hiking opportunities on the Sendero Pacifico. There s not only plenty to do and see in the Monteverde area but also elsewhere in the country. When there in December, we barely scratched the surface of the array of eco- and educational- tourism options. Before travelling to San Luis, we visited the Zoo & Bird Rescue centre in Alajuela near the San Jose airport well worthwhile - and spent our second week in Quepos & Manuel Antonio on the west coast, and La Fortuna/Arenal Volcano to the north of Monteverde. If you, too, are hearing Costa Rica calling to participate as a volunteer or to visit as a vacationer, and want to know more before making a commitment, please don t hesitate to contact me by rosamundr@ aol.com or write directly to Nat Scrimshaw at nat@mountainsteward.net W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 21 Photo: Marg Yaraskavitch Photo: Sandra Howe

22 B y n e d m o r g a n The Paths to the Trail Picture a place with no dry land just a shallow sea vanishing into a featureless horizon. Untroubled by the terrestrial life that will later dominate the globe, this long-ago place hosts lifeforms that look more or less familiar to us. One of its larger denizens, the cephalopod nautiloid Endoceras, a squid-like ancient mollusk with protuberant eyes, propels itself through the water, tentacles extended in search of its usual prey, the scuttling, proto-crab Pseudogygites trilobite one of the era s most successful animals in spite of its status as prey. Countless variations on this silent, submerged life cycle continue through time, encompassing the reign of many species we now easily recognize in the fossil record. Four hundred and fifty million years later, the carbonized remains of this shallow sea form the base layer of a rough terrestrial path, the Niagara Escarpment, through a very different southern Ontario. This apparently haphazard path was only recognized as such as the Bruce Trail, routed, mapped, blazed and painstakingly negotiated after a remarkable coalescence of people and ideas 50 years ago. In the decade or so before the Trail s establishment, Ontario s population was exploding. The provincial government was establishing the 400 series highways and expanding the Queen Elizabeth Way, crosshatching the southern reaches of the province with pavement and cement made from Escarpment-quarried aggregate a seemingly limitless source of raw material on the doorstep of Canada s thrumming industrial engine room. Steel for bridges and other infrastructure came from the Steel Company of Canada, Stelco, headquartered in Hamilton, a city bisected by the Escarpment. (Dolostone quarried from the mountain, as the Escarpment is locally known, makes up many of Hamilton s Regency and Victorian mansions, churches and commercial buildings.) Having supplied munitions, and steel for ships and army transports during the Second World War, Stelco in the 1950s was poised for even more growth to meet the demand for not only infrastructure but also for the emergent consumer goods market. Around this time, Stelco metallurgist and Hamilton Field Naturalists (HFN) member Ray Lowes began to muse about a trail that would lead birders and other nature seekers out of Hamilton, using the Escarpment landform as a guide. Working in the molten heart of the industrial complex, Lowes understood that southern Ontario was in danger of becoming a continuous zone of parking lots and subdivisions, the Escarpment and its valuable dolostone mercilessly quarried, pulverized and paved under. One can imagine Lowes emerging from the heat and noise of the steel mill blast furnaces to explore the Escarpment around Hamilton with his HFN peers, and the sustenance this must have provided him. At some point in the late 22 B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

23 1950s, Lowes realized that a longer footpath could, through collective effort, one day become an institution like the Appalachian Trail in the eastern US, parts of which he had hiked. In the 1950s and early 60s, most town and city planners, elected officials, and citizens could see little reason to curb development, mostly because nobody was offering an alternative. The first Bruce Trail Committee meeting in 1960 attended by Lowes and Philip Gosling, Norman Pearson, and Dr. Robert MacLaren would present that alternative to unsustainable development. It was right under everyone s noses: a volunteer-maintained trail following the Escarpment from Queenston to Tobermory to ensure public access in perpetuity. Since the Escarpment plunges into the water at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, the Trail would end there, and take its name from its destination (assuming that most hikers would walk from south to north). By 1967, seven productive years after that first Committee meeting, the basic Trail would be blazed and open. Now that the Trail has been in the public consciousness for 50 years, it is difficult to appreciate its early impact. One can argue that the Niagara Escarpment Commission, an Ontario government agency established in 1973 with a mission to preserve the Niagara Escarpment as a continuous natural landscape, was directly inspired by the opening of the Trail. And Ontario s Greenbelt Act (2005) which protects almost two million acres of environmentally sensitive land from urban development and sprawl, was prefigured by Ray Lowes himself, writing in Bruce Trail News in Endoceras fossil at Malcolm Bluff Shores Nature Reserve Here stands a rugged, beautiful continuum of rocks, waterfalls, greenery and recreational opportunity that must be preserved in its entirety for us and for the future. The Bruce Trail is the chain that at once binds this potential into a unified whole; that brings the very existence of a unique resource sharply to the attention of a population used to taking things for granted; that, when it is built and being used, will inspire a desire to protect and preserve from further encroachment a green belt across the province During the early years of the Bruce Trail Committee, conservation was still a fringe idea in society at large, though it was not a new one. The recognition that humanity benefits from consistent access to wild spaces is in fact ancient and longstanding; from Virgil to Wordsworth to Thoreau, poets and thinkers have advanced this idea. In Canada, the late nineteenth century saw concerns about the plunder of natural resources result in the establishment of the country s first provincial wilderness park, Algonquin, in east-central Ontario in At 7,653 square kilometres in total, parts of Algonquin Provincial Park are extremely remote, to be visited only by those prepared for wilderness. In contrast, the Bruce Trail may wind through some significantly wild and pristine places, but its conservation corridor is not on the scale of a wilderness park. One of the earliest newspaper articles generated by Ray Lowes PR campaign for the nascent Trail appeared in a 1961 issue of the Financial Post with the headline, Photos: Beth Gilhespy Can they save this ribbon of wilderness? (The answer was yes. ) The Trail is something of a ribbon, though in the last 50 years it has been significantly widened by the acquisition of BTC-managed nature reserves as it threads its way through Canada s most populous region, preserving Lowes continuum of rocks, waterfalls, [and] greenery. Lowes and the other founders lived and worked in the Golden Horseshoe region. Assuring easy accessibility to wild spaces for busy city dwellers was a natural first step in their mission. And the idea of hiking walking not for a destination but for the walk itself, with close observation of nature along the way was, in an age bent on urbanization, nothing less than revolutionary, particularly as the Trail would at times wind within sight of freeways. For those who found themselves adrift inside the megalopolis, the Trail was there, right there, offering direction to the lost. The 1967 Trail and the Escarpment conservation plan it represented, though mapped from southern to northern terminus, was far from complete. Fifty years later, much more of the optimum route and its protective corridor have been secured. Over 10,000 acres of Escarpment land have been preserved by the BTC, the majority of which is cared for by volunteers of the Land Stewardship program and with the support of the BTC s staff ecologists. Still, 40 percent of the Bruce Trail corridor remains vulnerable to development, which underscores the ongoing importance of BTC membership, the role of volunteers, public outreach, education, and fundraising. From that shallow prehistoric sea, to a fossil-rich landform that harbours extraordinary biodiversity, to a Trail that both showcases and protects it, there has been much progress in the last 450,000,000 years and in the last 50. Sometimes it seems that humans do nothing but distort and destroy biodiversity in our constant hunger for more resources. But efforts like that of the Bruce Trail Conservancy and its volunteers over the last 50 years show that we can help maintain ourselves in a continuum with the non-human biosphere, both because it s worth saving on its own merits, and for a more selfish reason: because it saves us too. W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 23

24 T H E B R U C E T R A I L C O N S E R V A N C Y S P H O T O C O N T E S T th Anniversary Photo & story Contest thank you to everyone who shared photos and stories of what the Bruce trail has meant to you in our 50th Anniversary Photo Contest. It was a joy to see and read how the trail has been a source of inspiration, adventure, healing, reflection, family time and more. With so many poignant and beautiful entries, it was truly difficult for our judges to narrow it down to these final 10. Congratulations to our winners! We invite you to visit brucetrail.org to see all the wonderful entries. GrAnd PrIZe WInner sonya richmond As a child my parents took me walking on the Bruce Trail. Later as teenager I hiked and camped along the Trailway. Now we take our children and friends for excursions to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature. The trail and landscape remind us what is essential in life, reacquaints us with who we are, and reaffirms where we are heading. For my family the Bruce Trail is about Connections. People to nature. Generation to generation. Past to present. 24 B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

25 melissa Krakar On our end-to-end journey, we are often asked how we get the kids to hike so far and not get bored. The Bruce Trail is a special place where we leave behind the busyness of life to soak in the sounds and beauty of nature, listen to the birds, identify plants and animal tracks, learn about the flora, fauna and history, play shadow tag or hide and seek, sing, take pictures, explore the interesting features, balance on logs, have a picnic lunch, rejuvenate from the positive energy of the forest and simply enjoy spending time outdoors. It s a place to spend quality family time together. Pictured here is our youngest, with the help of my husband, pretending to be a raccoon in a hollow tree. Jasmine Waslowski 34 days of hiking culminated in this photo. It was five-thirty in the morning and I was surrounded by a family of people I met the night before. One pot of boiled water had transformed into a delightful bowl of oatmeal and a cup of instant coffee. My body was rejuvenated from a night of rest and my soul was nourished by the company of tents at Storm Haven campsite. While the sun barely peeked out from behind the clouds, the crisp morning air and a peaceful Georgian Bay made for a satisfying sunrise. This last morning of my end-to-end journey is symbolic of all the special things the Bruce Trail offers: peace in nature not far from home, the opportunity to connect with old friends and meet new ones, a reminder to appreciate simple pleasures in life, and a call to take on new challenges with optimism and perseverance. W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 25

26 linda swance I wonder... Fifty years ago, how tall was this tree? Just one of the many things I think about while on the Bruce Trail. It s not how many steps I take, but how many steps have travelled through the trails. I look at the trail, and the trees, and wonder the changes over 50 years. The Bruce Trail is my escape, and someday I hope to hike end to end, even if it takes me 50 years! I wonder In 50 years, how much taller will this tree be? 26 B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

27 sean morton Choosing one location or one moment from a lifetime of trips along the Bruce Trail is an almost impossible task. The beauty and diversity of the landscape which spans from Tobermory to Queenston Heights inspires the soul and the spirit. The Bruce Trail itself guides us along the escarpment's natural beauty, allowing hikers to experience tranquility in the midst of Ontario s urban centres and the spaces in between which join them and us together. Whether on a day hike, a weekend camping trip, or an end to end excursion along the Bruce the pathway furthers our appreciation for the natural world and allows us to rediscover the nearby wilderness. I am always amazed at spots along the trail, such as those in Hamilton, which one often only discovers, or rediscovers, in moments of quiet reflection. Peter moule The Bruce Trail ensures a secured corridor of preserved land through Southern Ontario. At a time when urban sprawl is quickly eating up many of the natural spaces outside of the city, it s good to know that the BTC is conserving many of these beautiful natural areas and unique ecosystems that would otherwise be destroyed by urban development. W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 27

28 T H E B R U C E T R A I L C O N S E R V A N C Y S P H O T O C O N T E S T Brenda West I love the Bruce Trail, because it invites you in to appreciate this beautiful planet, both the grand vistas, and the tiny treasures. When you leave the car and enter the woods, boots on the ground, you re on a journey to discover all of the amazing details that you would not otherwise see - dew drops on spider webs, tiny buds opening, ice formations in creeks and ditches, flowers and trees clinging to cliffs, rock, rock, and more rock, insects visiting flowers, lacy lichen, patterns on bark, orchids, fungi, beams of light, ripples on water, reflections, and the adventure is just endless. The Bruce Trail is Ontario s treasure, and so good for the soul. michael mcdonald The Bruce Trail, its inception and its continued success is born from teamwork. People who care about preserving their natural environment work together to make this dream a reality. All along our trail you can see you see landowners, volunteers, conservation authorities and staff members working together to preserve this precious ribbon of green. This picture to me defines togetherness. Diverse backgrounds, different abilities, generosity and passion for nature bring us all together to love and protect the trail. 28 B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

29 margaret o dell Water is Life! The Bruce Trail is infamous for its creeks and waterfalls and they get the spotlight most of the time, however, what I've come to appreciate so much in the 600 km plus that I have covered is the tireless efforts of volunteers who maintain this trail and make it passable for us to enjoy its beautiful scenery and bountiful forest life that comes with the gift of water. The bridges, styles, steps and ladders, carefully thoughtful of our safe passage. I commend these amazing volunteers. maureen elliott I have enjoyed hiking and photographing the Bruce Trail for many years, exploring new sections, but this was the first time I introduce the trail to my grandkids. This image shows my 5 year old granddaughter, Jasmine, climbing and exploring around the crevices of the Boyd's Crevice section near Owen Sound. I was so delighted to watch the kids and their excitement. I crawled into crevices I had overlooked on previous hikes. To pass this love of nature and the Bruce Trail to the next generation is what it is all about! W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 29

30 50th Anniversary Baton From hand-to-hand, hiker-to-hiker, a ceremonial baton is travelling the length of the entire Bruce Trail this spring in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the opening of the Bruce Trail. This unique end-toend continues a wonderful tradition; baton relays took place in our 10th and 30th Anniversary years. Hundreds have taken part in the baton adventure which has pulled together Bruce Trail supporters from all along the Trail in our 50th Anniversary. Thank you to everyone who has carried the baton and to all who have shared their #BruceTrailBaton photos on social media. The unique wood-turned baton features nine lines representing each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs and a section of grooves representing the hills and valleys of the Niagara Escarpment. It has been made hollow so that it can also act as a time capsule for this momentous 50th Anniversary year. On June 10th the baton s journey comes to an end as it will be hiked in to our 50th Anniversary celebration at the Bruce Trail s northern terminus cairn. 30 B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

31 Trail Changes trail reroutes & new trails As of march 2017, Post 28th edition IroQuoIA map #8 shuttle service launches at Webster Falls Parking lots at Spencer Gorge/Webster Falls will be closed on weekends and holiday Mondays. All waterfall parking will be at 367 Highway 5 West. A shuttle service will now run between a large parking area just outside Dundas and Spencer Gorge/Webster Falls Conservation Area, for visitors to access this popular conservation area on weekends and holidays from Saturday, May 13 to Sunday, October 29, For details visit: conservationhamilton.ca > Todays HCA Alerts PenInsulA map #36 mciver side trail The westernmost portion of this side trail has been shortened so that it no longer passes through private land. mciver side trail = 3.3 km map #9 highview survey At the request of a landowner, the main Trail has been rerouted from its previous location up Cedar Springs Rd and through the Highview Survey. The recommended roadside parking previously shown within the Highview Survey will no longer be a recommended parking location found within the Bruce Trail Reference. Please respect this community. new route = 855 metres Closed trail = 1 km CAledon hills map #14 Badlands temporary closure The trails within the Badlands will be closed until some time in June A temporary reroute is in place. temporary route = 2.4 km map #15 Forks of the Credit The viewing platform at Forks of the Credit closed May 2015 and is impassable. As a result, two dead-end side trails have been created, each ending at either side of the viewing platform. In addition, the former Quarryman s Side Trail has now become the main Bruce Trail. mill Pond side trail = 1.6 km Cataract side trail = 1.1 km map #42 - new timed parking at the Grotto Due to the overwhelming popularity of hiking to the Grotto in Bruce Peninsula National Park, Parks Canada has introduced time slot parking at the Grotto access for This will be in effect: Spring: Weekends and holidays from May 20th to June 30th Summer: Every day from July 1st to Sept 4th Fall: Weekends and holidays from Sept 5th to October 9th For details visit: on/bruce/activ/experiences/grotto/parking map #10 Kilbride At the request of a landowner, the main Trail has been rerouted to Twiss Rd and Derry Rd. new route = 2.1 km Closed trail = 2.3 km Photo: Antoin Diamond W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 31

32 OUR GENEROUS DONORS the following donors have made gifts of $100 or more to the Bruce trail Conservancy between January 1, 2017 and April 30, 2017 John & Wendy Abbott Barbara Adams Sarika Ahluwalia Leslie Alexander & Cailyn Allaby Geoff Allanson Katherine & James Anderson Gaetano Antonini & A.M. Jevnikar Medical Prof. Corp John & Judy Appleton Cynthia Archer Artworld Fine Art Inc Thomas & Charlotte Barker Michael Barnard Tony & Joan Barton Margaret Bates Steve & Jean Baxter Warren Beacham Shelagh Beattie John Bedford Lori Beesack Warren Bell & Lyne Desforges Benevity Ann Beniusis Grace L. Bevan Ed Bezeau & Susan Bigland-Witton Kayla Binkley Morgan Binkley Renee Biss Peter Blaiklock & Bloom Depot Inc Blue Bay Motel Ltd Blue Mountains Bruce Trail Club Laurel Boatman Ted & Karin Bossence Judith Bourke Barry Bowen & David & Lynda Bowen & George Bowman The Bradstreet Foundation Bruce Braithwaite Ken & Heidi Brisco Dana & Jane Brown Deborah Brown Diane Brown Gail Brown Thomas & Deborah Brown Steve Brown & Wayne & Lynda Buck Carol Budge Leslie & John Buehner Bill & Marjorie Buhlman Nina Cacciatore Beth Cairney Dianne Cairney Caledon Hills Bruce Trail Club Bruce & Ruth Calvert Canadian Online Giving Foundation Santo Carbone Anne Cathrae Rob Chadwick Earl Chamberlain Katherine Chapman William Chapman Shannon Chattington Mary Chorniuk Joanne & Mike Cicchini City of Niagara Falls George Clare Marlies Clark William Coleman John Conder Marilyn Cooper Louise Corbin & Hugh James Corcoran Memorial Trust Fund Margaret Corner Tom Cosentino & Council for Clean and Reliable Electricity James Couse Art & Judy Craig William Crawford Jennifer Cruickshank Doug & Loreen Cumming F Wayne Cunliffe Robert & Anita Cunningham Randy Currah Marilyn Daniels Deborah Danis & Colleen Darrell & Gregory Huffman Ann & Gordon Darroch Ginny Davidson Victor & Sandra Davis Ted & Jayne Dawson Diane Delaney David Dell Vivienne Denton Nicholas Diamant & Stephen & Rosemary Digby Heather DiMarco Valerie Dobson & John Beamish Kathleen Doherty Janet Douglas Germaine Drury & Bob & Caroline Duncanson William Dunlop Greig S. Dunn Shauna Dunn Richard Edwards Ken Edwards & David Eikelboom Andrew Elliott Eadaoin Elliott Jacqueline Elton & Gerald Epstein Escape Productions Barbara Euler Elizabeth Fedorkow & David Alles Rob & Danielle Ferguson & Judy Finlay & Doug Finley Catherine Fitzsimmons Bryan & Carol Foley & Geoffrey Fong Greg & Alice Forbes Jeffrey Forgrave Debra Forman Ronald Forman David Forrest Stewart Forrest & James H. Forster Roger & Judy Fowler Richard Frank Lynne Freeman Jack Freiburger Barbara Frey Verna Friesen William & Frances Frisken Bill & MaryElizabeth Fulton Liz Gadsby Florence Garbutt & Bill George & Barb Jackel Donna Gierszewski Beth Gilhespy & John A. Gingrich Anthony Glueckler Robert & Lynda Grant Jan Graves & Robin Gray Carol Grecco Tanya Green John & Jane Greenhouse Ann & Ross Hanham Michael Hansen Mark Hardisty Muriel Hart Allisa & Dylan Harvey David Hass & Betty Hastings Julie Hay Joan Hayes & Ron Varley Jamie & Jan Hember Donna Hemeon Tom Henderson & Ian & Jane Hendrie Shannon Herschmiller John Higham Lara Hof Chris Hoffmann & Joan Eakin Ursula Hopkins William Horkins James Howden Stephen Howe Peter & Liz Howes William & Lynn Hryniuk Pat Hughes Humber Valley United Church Michael Hunter Tara Hurley Hydro One Employees & Pensioners' Charity Trust Mary Iantorno & IBM Canada Ltd Rod & Cathy Innes International Shipmasters Association Lodge 20 E. Elizabeth Ireton Cathie Irwin Ivanhoe Cambridge Inc. Ann Jackson & Denis Ho Shawn James Ruth Jellicoe Nancy Jenkins Herbert Jenkins & Fay Jensen Dave Jewett Caitlin Johnson Marion Johnson David Johnston Ruth Jones Steve Jones & Smadar Junkin John Kajioka & Catherine Kaloutsky Robina Kaposy Cliff Keeling Ellen Kennedy Margaret Kerr-Lawson Chris Key Anisa Khan Myrla Kilburn Kiwanis Club of Owen Sound Robert & Marie Knapp Gisela Knappe Patricia Knight John & Jacquelyn Koehler Sebastian Kozlowski & John Kranyics Tara Krebs Ernie Kuechmeister John Kuhne Nancy Kumpf Anna Kutishcheva Hannah Lacroix Alkarim Ladha & David Lamb & Lucie Larose & Neil McKay Diana Laubitz Rene E. Laukat Karen Laurence Frank & Julie Lauritzen Kate Lazier & Jane Pyper Joyce Le Chasseur Derrick Lee Glenn & Phyllis Lee Yong Cho Lee & Peter Leeney Andrea Lenocki Brandon Levac & Jeffrey Levitt & Christine Lewis Diana & Louis Li & Link Charity Mariana Ljuljdjuraj David Lloyd & Maureen Bruce Olivia Loh Marie Lucas & John & Kathryn Lye Caroline Mach & Ken Mikoliew Shirley G. Mackenzie Errol MacKenzie & Jeanne Keldson Susan & Leslie MacMillan Ian MacRae Pieter & Janny Maljaars Mary Maloney Nancy & Robert Mann Manual Life Taylor Marilyn William P. Markow Carole Marshall Donald Marshall David Matchett Dave & Bev Matthews Dennis & Kathleen McCalla Janice McClelland & Don Blok Marilyn G McCool Rick McCoy Robert McCuen John & Elizabeth McCullam Patricia McDonald- Harrison Andy & Kim McEwen Murray McEwen Ian McFadgen Maureen McFarland Sue McFarlane & Sylvia J. McGeer Maureen McGuigan E Dianne McKnight Kevin McLean & Adrienne McRuvie Simone Medeiros Allan Meyer & Leslie Michel Catherine Middleton Darryl Minard & Elaine Mitchell Ruth Moffatt Russ & Pat Moore Robert Moreton Margaret Morison Patricia Mosdell David Moule Sabrina Mousseau Steven Mousseau Georgia Mulholland & Ken Mullings Kevin Murphy William Murphy & Donald B. Mutton Chang H. Na & The Nature Conservancy Canada 32 B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

33 Patricia A. Nelson Howard & Pamela Newman New Initiatives Marketing Jordan Neysmith Niagara Bruce Trail Club Gordon Nicholls Lee Nicholls James Nicol Fred Nix & Franca De Angelis David & Linda Noble North Bay & District Canadian Club Christopher Northey Mary Jane & Randy Novak Joan Nuffield Teresa Oakley & Irmgard Oberhummer Cheryl Olenick F. Michael Olmstead Brendan O'Neill Ontario Power Generation Inc Jim Ostrander Allan Outram Marg & Will Overton Linda Padfield Ann Pagliuso Judy Palmer Heather Pantrey Scott Parker Brian Paul J M Pearson Morris Perozak Paul Petras Rosemary Petrie Hilary Phillips Susan Pike Diane Pope & Henry & Susan Popp Susan Pouget Mark & Mary Powell & Private Giving Foundation Robert Putman Dwayne Pyper & Barbara Small Susan Rab Barry Randall & Mike Reel Emily Rempel Glynnis Rengger Iryna Revutsky Kay Ribson Joan Richard Derek & Merle Richards Don & Betty Richmond Jennifer Roberts Sandi Robinson Celia Rodd Nigel Rodgerson Miriam Rogers & Rosamund Rossetti & Mike Osborn Ken Rotman Rev Wendy Roy & Dr Dean Jeffries Teri Russell-Hill & Peter Ryan Richard Saddington & Karen Saliwonchyk & Malcolm J. Sanderson Mary Jane Santori William Saunderson & SC Johnson & Son Ltd Scenic Caves Nature Adventures Gerhard Scharlach Samantha, Tony, Evi & Ella Schieman Janet Schlee Frank Schoenhoeffer Julie Scott Nancy & Richard Seppala Marietta Service Kathryn Ann Shanks Nigel & Pamela Shelton & Carol & Ken Sheppard Elizabeth Sherlock & Lorraine Sherred Nancy Sherwin Mary & Ray Shier Jocelyn & Ted Shipman Brian Sickle Elizabeth Siebenmann Michael Sinding Jeff Skillings Jordon Slatt Douglas Sloan John Smale & David Small Art Smith Don K. Smith Maureen Smith Jill Smith-Brodie & David Brodie Smith's Funeral Service (Burlington) Ltd Sallie P. Smyth Pat & Chris Snyder Wendy Southall John & Ellen Spears Patrick Speissegger & Susan Spier Elizabeth Staite Paul Stanbury Werner Steger & Louis Steiner & Michael Stoten Strategic Charitable Giving Foundation SS&C Technologies Canada Corp James Swalwell Sydenham Bruce Trail Club David & Gloria Sykes T K P C (Group) Paul & Gale Taylor Ryan Thompson Timothy Thompson John G. Thomson Willard & Sharon Thorne Peter Tihanyi Brenda Tipper & Toronto Bruce Trail Club Brian & Bron Tregunno & Betty Tse & Patricia Turner United Way - Burlington & Greater Hamilton United Way - Ottawa Annette Urlocker Linda Vallie Melis van Harten Van Harten Surveying Inc James Vanderlip Case Vanderplas Troy Vasiga Jane & Peter Vickery Wally's Walkers Kevin Warburton Karen Ward & Andre Kipin Dana Webster Wednesday Hikers Dorothy & Gerd Wengler Mary Ann West Rosemary West Barry & Marilyn Westhouse Stephen White Geraldine Whiteley Charles Whitlock & Joy Geiger Wilfrid Laurier University Grant Williams John Wilson Tom Wilson Robert J. Winder Norman Wingrove M C Hastings Withers Lynn Witmer Elfriede & Holger Wobbe John & Rhonna Wolkowski & Robin & Sharon Wood Work Flow Innovations Inc Robert Wray Susan Wright Sean Yarwood The Yogashala Inc David Young Elaine & Clifton Young Fred Young Norman & Marilyn Young Thank you to all donors whose names are too numerous to print. F e B r u A r y 1, A P r I l 3 0, G I F T S Gifts were received to honour these special people: Max & Lynn Blouw Birthday Leah Hurley Marion Johnson Don Knight 75th Alf Redekopp 65th Bonnie Zinn Wedding Hannah LaCroix & Justin Cann Linda Robinson & Larry Columbo Sandela Bat Sincha & Brian MacIntosh Wedding Anniversary Donna & Gord Chesney 60th Lorraine & John Dietrich 70th Hart & Jan Fischer 50th Mother s Day Adele Knight Retirement Jamie Hember Sydenham Bruce Trail Club Webmaster In memoriam gifts were received in recognition of: Kenneth Arliss Doug Arnold Mary Bell Ross Boyce Michelle Burt Florina Castura Geordie (George) Chester Nancy Elizabeth Clare Valerie Maureen Dobson Margrethe Friis Susan Gamble Norah Gardner Doug Goodbrand Merle Gunby Leslie Hain Joe Hanson James A. Henderson Carol Hitchen Keith R. Hyde Fiorenzo (Enzo) Iantorno Izzie Kevin James Judith Johnson Presents for Preservation: Birthday Sharon Anderson Tony Riggs Chris Sinding David Weicker Kuckoo Kirsten & Stan the Man Gan Randall-Gan Shirley Anne Klement Mike Latta Jack Merwin Victoria Milne Ron Moeser Muriel Mohr Freda Neill Wallace Young Nisbet Edina O Brien Maria Charlotte O Neill Dr. Ian Buchan Petrie James Clarn Pickard Robert Radunske Dr. Morley Rutherford Matti Ruuska Thomas Sandell Gisela Sherman Danny Shu-Wah Yu Joan Stepan Joan Stryker George Albert Thurston John Justin Watson Ruth Jeanne Patricia Wright Thank You Rotary Club Meaford W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 33

34 BTC General Store C h e C K o u t o u r W I d e s e l e C t I o n o F P r o d u C t s new Bruce trail Poster map Printed on heavy stock this beautiful, newly redesign poster map is perfect for hanging at home or at the cottage maybe it will inspire your next Bruce Trail adventure! Same price since Poster Size: 23.94" x 35.94" Fits IKEA GUNNABO frame. $8.85 the Bruce trail App For Ios or AndroId devices Plan, track, and log your hikes on Canada s oldest and longest marked footpath with this easy-to-use, official Bruce Trail App. Find it in the App Store or Google Play Store. Details at brucetrail.org $19.99 new Bruce trail reference maps and trail Guide edition 29 our commemorative 50th Anniversary edition is now available. Enjoy the new userfriendly design enhancements, anniversary-themed content and a special new Bruce Trail fieldguide. members: $34.95 non-members: $39.95 Bruce trail reference Guide Insert edition 29 Enjoy all the same great content as the Bruce Trail Reference but without the binder or vinyl sleeve. This is best suited for those who have binder from a previous edition. Inserts come with a sticker for your old binder so you can easily identify which edition is inside. members: $24.95 non-members: $29.95 downloadable Bruce trail reference maps edition 28 Individual maps $3.00. Full Set of 42 maps in single download package - members $21.95, non-members $ See brucetrail.org for details. new 2018 BruCe trail CAlendAr Stunning original Bruce Trail themed art fills the 2018 Bruce Trail Calendar. Makes a great gift. members: $15.00 non-members: $18.00 new Front 50th AnnIversAry shirt short sleeved, wicking material unisex Cut (s, m, l, Xl, XXl) Women s Cut (Xs,s,m,l,Xl) $20.00 end-to-end BAdGe For those who have already completed the entire Bruce Trail and have an official End to End number. $5.00 BACK new 50th PIns A great new way show your Bruce Trail pride! This metal lapel pin will look smart on your backpack or blazer. Safety pin backing. $5.00 BtC CAPs - with logo Show your Bruce Trail pride and look sharp doing it! BTC caps look great and protect your melon. 100% cotton with adjustable strap. Available in green, black, and now grey too! Available in black, green or grey. $15.00 BtC license Plate Frame New Anniversary design - Show your support of the BTC while on the road with a custom plate surround. White with dark green lettering. $5.00 t h e B t C B o o K s h e l F to order from our extensive collection of books please call or visit Silent Valley A stunning jewel in a beautiful necklace Ron Savage silent valley BooK $15 PlAnts of southern ontario $29.95 halton hikes - loops & lattes $24.95 orchids of BruCe & Grey $24.95 ontario rocks $49.95 explore niagara $ B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R

35 BTC General Store - ORDER FORM s h o P o n l I n e A t B r u C e t r A I l. o r G o r m A I l I n t h e F o r m B e l o W ORDERED BY: SHIP TO: Same as ordered by? Yes No Name Member # Is this a gift shipment? Yes No Address Name Member# City Address Prov. ( ) Telephone ( ) Day-Time Telephone (Will be kept confidential) Postal Code City Prov. Postal Code DESCRIPTION (Include size and colour) QUANTITY PRICE EACH TOTAL Gift Membership $50.00 Please send this gift to: Fee includes 1-year membership in one Bruce Trail Club. Please specify: Peninsula Sydenham Beaver Valley Blue Mountains Dufferin Hi-Land Caledon Hills Toronto Iroquoia Niagara Member-at-large NAME STREET CITY PROV. POSTAL CODE PAYMENT: Enclosed, please find my: Cheque or money order payable to the Bruce Trail Conservancy (no post-dated cheques please) Visa # Expiry Date SHIPPING RATES (including taxes) Under $50 Over $50 $ $ SUBTOTAL 5% Tax Books Only 13% HST all other products Shipping Mastercard # Month Year To USA add extra International add extra $ 8.50 $ Donation Gift Membership Mailing Tube for posters add $ 3.39 TOTAL Signature No tax on memberships or donations M A I L T O : B R U C E T R A I L C O N S E R VA N C Y, P. O. B O X 8 5 7, H A M I LT O N, O N L 8 N 3 N 9 Call Toll-Free: info@brucetrail.org W W W. B R U C E T R A I L. O R G B R U C E T R A I L M A G A Z I N E 35

36 50 years ago on June 10, 1967 the Bruce Trail was officially opened. Hundreds gathered to celebrate this occasion. Today, the Bruce Trail Community has many reasons to celebrate. Because of our members, volunteers and donors we have accomplished many extraordinary milestones over the last 50 years: 11,000 acres of preserved Escarpment land 9,430 Bruce Trail Members 1,500 Volunteers Thousands of Donors A World Class Footpath All photos Brian Popelier Thank you for being a part of our success. Here s looking forward to the next 50 years!