A printed map/brochure of Copeland Forest is now available for $2 at the following fine businesses and organizations: Continue reading Where to Buy your Copeland Map
New Maps and Signage – Helping You Find Your Way
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A new map of the major trails in the Copeland Forest is now available to help people enjoy the Forest. Over 50 new signs enable users to see where they are on a map.
The map and signage are a project of the Copeland Forest Friends Association. In the public consultations leading to the formation of Copeland Forest Friends, we heard repeatedly that people were getting lost in the Forest. The new maps and signage will help you locate yourself in the forest and get you back to the main parking lots.
The signs and maps are very user-friendly and we hope will make for a more enjoyable and safe experience for all in the Forest. Frequently Asked Questions about Copeland Forest Maps and Signage.
The printed map/brochure is printed on tear-resistant, water-repellent paper and is free to all members of the Association. You can purchase a copy for $2 at these locations:
- Craighurst Esso
- Craighurst KOA Campground
- Horseshoe Resort Guest Services
- Horseshoe Inn Reception Desk
- Bikeland in Barrie
- Greenhawk in Barrie
- Sojourn in Barrie
- The Bird House Nature Company in Orillia
- Woodside Pottery & Gallery in Craighurst
- The Couchiching Conservancy
A special thank you to the volunteers of the Copeland Forest Friends Association, particularly the trails committee. The trails committee members are: David Kennedy, Andrew Doble, Neil Craig, Ted Greatrix, Bob Marshall, Dave Lord, and Sandy McLoughlin.
This project is one of the key activities included in the 2016 work plan approved under the Memorandum of Understanding between the Association and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests. The Association looks forward to continuing to assist the Ministry with the management of the Forest.
This project would not have been possible without the financial support of Casino Rama’s Community Cares Program. The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority provided GIS work for the map. The trails were mapped by the District Office of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and updated by the CFFA. Thanks to Horseshoe Resort for its support of the project.
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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:
- Support a sustainable network of trails to promote a broad range of safer recreational activities that respect the Forest.
- Use scientific research to monitor the Forest and undertake stewardship activities and develop educational opportunities.
This year the key projects include:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Trail maintenance – pilot project for the 5th Line connecting trail.
- 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.