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Launch of 2016 Workplan

We have some exciting news that just came in.  The Copeland Forest Friends Association 2016 Work Plan has been approved by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry.

The 2016 Work Plan is part of a three year plan focusing on trail management and ecology and sustainability.  The key objectives are to:

  1.  Support a sustainable network of trails to promote a broad range of safer recreational activities that respect the Forest.
  2. Use scientific research to monitor the Forest and undertake stewardship activities and develop educational opportunities.

This year the key projects include:

  1.  Development of a main trail map for the public – the map is set to go to the printers and will be available later in June.  One copy will be available free to members and additional copies will be $5.00.  Non-members may also purchase it at local stores.
  2. Development of directional and locator signage based on the map – there will be welcome signs going up at five parking lots, two on Ingram Rd and three on the 5th Line N.  Within the Forest, there will be 12 “You Are Here” signs with a map to show you where you are in the Forest.  Intersections on the dual track trails will be numbered and keyed to the map.
  3. Identification of sensitive ecological areas and installation of signage asking users to stay on the trails in these areas – Sensitive lichen and wildflower areas will be marked.
  4. Trail maintenance – pilot project for the 5th Line connecting trail.
  5. Trail re-routing for water seepage – two trail reroutes are proposed for single track trails going through seepage areas.

Stay tuned for news about the map and signage plans.  Requests will be going out to members for volunteers to help install the signs and work on the trails.  It’s going to be a busy and exciting time!

The signage project is being proudly supported by Casino Rama Resort.

Thanks to the board and the trails committee for all the work to develop this project

-David Kennedy, Copeland Forest Friends Board President.

First AGM a Success

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We held our first Annual General Meeting on Saturday February 20th, 2016 at W.R. Best Public School where we welcomed over 70 members. David Kennedy, Copeland Forest Friends Board President, welcomed everyone and gave an overview of our progress to date. Continue reading First AGM a Success →

Horseback Riders on the 3rd line of Copeland Forest

Gifts and Responsibilities

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Horseback riders were granted an extra gift this year, when we were able to ride in the Copeland Forest all through the fall and almost up until Christmas, due to the lack of snow (with the exception of a couple of snowfalls that melted quickly). Continue reading Gifts and Responsibilities →

Memo of Understanding signed with MNRF

The Copeland Forest Friends Board had a lot to celebrate at their first meeting since the launch October 3rd.  One was signing the MOU with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests, which Mary Anne Greatrix is holding up here.  Mary Anne is the Board’s Secretary, and holds one of the Member-at-Large seats on the Board.