BLOG NEW PAGES

 Ok Blog followers we now have two new pages on the blog

"TIDBITS" has its first entry and "DEDICATIONS" will soon get going

Julianne has been the spearhead of this initiative with help from Renee and others.

Well Done ...  check it out !

JIM CHRIST 2021 12 30

 The hike today on the Jim Christ Trail, it was completed in a little over five hours, total distance was a little over 14 km. Out of the four attendees, three wore snowshoes. Very picturesque hike and it was enjoyed by all. A nice place for lunch was found deep in the woods. Numerous moose, grouse, rabbit and squirrel tracks were seen in the snow along with a few bird sightings. The sun made an appearance in between snow showers. Overall, an excellent hike to end off the year.

PHOTOS

MINUTES OF NOV 16 MEETING

  Coureurs de Bois Elliot Lake

Meeting November 16th/2021

Meeting called to Order @ 7pm. Members present - 27

Minutes of previous meeting approved by Bill H., second by Marty T, carried.

President’s Report -

Many thanks to all who helped with trail clearing. A special thanks go to Heber D., and Brian P., they put in a lot of time and effort. Kudos for a job well done.

David N., thanks the outgoing executive and trail-masters who will not be returning. Many trails have been expanded and renewed, the Win lkie Trail, Halo trail around Angel Lake, h Lake Trail (Spine Beach) to Sandy Point, and lots of work around the Cobre. Over a mile of flagging tape has been used!

Our paid membership stands at 102 members. Our club ranks second in VTA membership numbers. (Next to the SSM club). We are 1/3 of the total VTA membership.

Sirje P., and Steve C., to be trained as New Hike Leader Trainers on November 26 by Gerry J. We also have new Hike Leader’s being trained.

ScotiaBank parking lot will resume being our meeting place for hikes as the paving has been completed.

Trail Safety - The Hike Leader has the final say as to a persons ability to do that days’ hike. Difficult hikes may be ad hoc. Hike Leader meetings will refresh our need to check for proper footwear, the meaning of the whistles (1 for stop, 2 for stop and return to the sound of the whistle, 3 to

 stop immediately and return). Gerry J., will be coming to the next Hike Leader meeting to refresh the rules for us. Also, the Hike Leader needs to tell the sweep what they want them to do on a hike!

We are hoping to resume with our sign-in sheets.

The new Senior Hike (Thursday afternoons @ 1 pm) has been a great success. Great idea Chuck Z!

Vice-President’s Report -

The cookout at Horne Island is tentatively planned. Check the blog for updates.

Financial Report - Jackie S., reported on the financials since the last meeting. The financial report was approved by Sue L, and seconded by Astrid T., carried.

Blog Report - Bill H., asks that not too many pictures be sent to the blog as it is time consuming to resize them.

New Executive for 2022 -2023 -

David N. will be returning as President.

Julie B. - New Vice-President.

Sue L. - New Treasurer.

Renee F. - New Recording Secretary.

Heber D., and Brian P., will be the new Trail Masters. Blog - Bill H. (Returning), and Heber D.

Marty T., will continue being the VP East for the VTA ( Julie B., to stand in if Marty is not available)

  

 Next Meeting is tentatively scheduled for January 18th/2022 at the clubhouse @ 7 pm. (Near the Rod and Gun Club north of town). (Check the blog for confirmation due to Covid).

Meeting adjourned @ 8:10 pm. Minutes Prepared by Jackie S.

SENIOR STOLLERY 2021 12 30

 There were 12 happy hikers today led by Jim  B out and about Stollery Lake.  The great debate was whether to wear our snowshoes or not.   Nobody wore them today and there were no problems but it was right on the threshold of wanting them or not.   As promised Jim stuck to the 45 minutes in and 45 minutes out which served us well.   We parked at the boat launch Dunlop Lake and crossed 108 in stellar fashion and did the same on the return.  

PHOTOS

OFFER OF INTEREST

 Chuck, whose number is 705 848 1076 (no text) and his email is  chaszietsma@gmail.com, has graciously offered FREE xcountry ski lessons or refreshers/practice, after this Sat.. If anyone is interested they can contact him to discuss details.  

JIM CHRIST TRAIL LOOP 2021 12 30

 Jim Christ Trail Loop is a 11 kilometer loop trail located in Mississagi Park which explores the forests, wetlands and lakes below the Helenbar Lookout and is rated as moderate/difficult. The trailhead is a further 1 km from the park gate. Snowshoes would be advisable. Lunch break for about 30 mins or so in addition to regular breaks. Dress warm and bring something warm to drink/eat.

Saturday, September 11, 2010 was the last time the Coureurs de Bois hiked this trail. We will be meeting at the park entrance at 9. Additionally, here be around over 8 hours of daylight, and the trail was cleared earlier this year.

HIGH ROCK 2021 12 23

 13 of us slipped and slid down Pipeline Rd. to the High Rock trail head. We donned our snowshoes and leisurely made our way to High Rock. One major obstacle in the trail was a fresh windfall.  Once we arrived at High Rock we chatted, took pictures and had a nice lunch. The fresh light snow combined with the clean crisp air and wonderful people, made for a nice warm day.

PHOTOS

SENIORS HIKE 2021 12 23

 Seven of us decided 2 go out snowshoeing at the sanctuary. It was nice and peaceful, not as many out there as yesterday. Sorry that I didn't get it posted on the calendar in time, MY fault! I needed a little push 2 get motivated this am., thanks Jane W and Jackie H 4 the motivation! Suzanne swept from the front and I  led from the rear, as there has been a wolf sighted in the sanctuary and I read the recent "wolf"" article on the blog, so I took the dangerous pos'n as "rear guard"!. 

INTERESTING

 A bit of fun ... reminds us of our hikes 

CLICK HERE

FOX SPOTTED 2021 12 21

Jean Guy led today’s hike and the highlight for sure was the fox seen on the trail.  A cold morning but the pictures show a good group of happy hikers.

PHOTOS 

EVANS LAKE 2021 12 20

 15 followed Chuck from the hydro lines out the trail to Dunlop lodge. Past some lovely old pine trees... at the lodge we kept on the trail and headed west along the lake across the creek from Little Dace lake to the trail into Evan's lake.. after a quick explore and rest we retraced our route back to the cars... another new face and return of some familiar ones,,, great -1 weather, a touch of snow and good company... perfect 

PHOTOS

Thursday 20210 12 23

 Due to the cancellation of the Cookout on Thursday Dec 23, we will be having a regularly scheduled hike.

SANDY POINT 2021 10 18

 A dozen eager hikers started out at Spine Beach to the sound of much talking, gossiping and laughter. The trail was in good condition with a little snow in some areas and deeper snow in the open areas.  This hike has got a lot of hiking in the forest around and through stands of trees and some open spots where the wind devastation of the trees is quite evident. The beach has an abandoned tent and a lot of camping gear left behind, which is rather sad as someone just walked away and left their possessions.  A bald eagle was seen flying overhead as well. It was an ambitious Saturday hike, but as Thursday was cancelled due to weather, no one seemed to care that it was 7 km long.

PHOTOS

BIG THANKS TO TRAIL CLEARERS

 We received this lovely letter from Brenda Clark 

I am not a member of the Coureur de Bois hiking group, but I benefit from using your trails, and I wanted to give a special thanks this year for your many efforts at clearing them all.  I help maintain trails at Sheriff Creek, and so understand some of the grunt work you’ve endured!  I know you often hike much further to reach the downed trees before you even start the heavy stuff.  Recently we have visited the High Rocks, the Wilkie Lake trail, and a portion of Helen’s trail.  All three show recent signs of lots of hard work by your people.  Congratulations on all your efforts!  It was a particularly hard year.  Ian and I have helped occasionally in small ways over the years, cutting out the odd stray tree that has fallen on one of your trails, by way of “paying” for the use of the trail.  Thanks again to your hard workers!  May the beavers treat you kindly – Brenda Clark.

COOKOUT CANCELLATION

 Unfortunately, our executive has had to cancel the planned cookout December 23rd.   The new city and provincial restrictions have forced this decision.  

Thanks everyone for your understanding. 

WOLF RUN 2021 12 16

 5 Heroic Hikers braved the elements to wander 45 minutes out Wolf Run and 45 minutes back to the cars. It started to drizzle as we headed back to McD's for our coffees! Thanks Chuck for another adventure. 

THURSDAY HIKE 2021 12 16

 Today's hike has been cancelled due the the wet weather and the possibility of slippery conditions under foot. 

THURSDAY'S HIKE 2021 12 16

 "The hike for Thursday involves some steep ascents in the first half.  Hiking boots with good support are strongly recommended.  Carrying extra socks and 2 plastic bags will not hurt either.  The entire route was hiked without snowshoes on Sunday and we returned to pack down the last bit on Tuesday with snowshoes.  Plan for a 3+ hour hike."

Grants Trail 2021 12 14

 

Today 17 hikers crunched through the crusty snow-covered Grants Trail. Most hikers were on snowshoes while several were in winter hikers. The snowshoers lead the way to break the way for the hikers in hikers. 😊 Earlier in the season someone cut a trail from Grants to Rhy lake, so we took a little detour to check out the trail. Every where we hiked there were signs of grouse and rabbit tracks. The temperature in my mind was perfect for snowshoeing with the sun contributing the odd warming ray. Overall the comments were positive during and at the end of the hike. Some stated that Grants is the perfect trail for the first snowshoe of the season.

PHOTOS

BOYCHUK RD 2021 12 13

 Jean Guy led 18 happy hikers from the Dunlop boat launch over to Boychuk and then Cinder road walks.    Lots of chatter and cautious road crossings kept us safe and smiling. Snack time at Cinder Lake had a few chairs and a picnic table to accommodate us.  A great Monday hike in the sunshine. 

PHOTOS

SAFE ICE THICKNESS

 Below is a chart depicting how thick ice is before we walk on it. Please be safe around ice. This time of year ice is generally more thick near shore, while in the spring the opposite is true. Before venturing out on ice it is best to check it by chipping some of the ice away with a knife, axe or similar tool to get an idea of the thickness. Given that ice is never considered 100% safe, the thicker the better.

CANCELLED HIKE TODAY Sat DEC 11

 DUE TO THE RAIN AND SLIPPERY CONDITIONS TODAYS HIKE HAS BEEN CANCELLED

SATURDAY PLAN

 

Looks like rain saturday so in interest of non slipping I think  we may have to cancel.. check the blog before coming out Saturday morning for confirmation

SENIOR SHERIFF 2021 12 09

16 hikers went on the Sheriff Lake upper trail and down the hill past the dam, and back along the creek to the cars. Phill and Jackie saw a beaver yesterday, in the creek just below the raven's nest. It appeared to have maybe found an interesting food source, as there is no obvious lodge in the immediate area. Big thanks to sweep Camilla for getting us all back safely, across Milliken Rd. (twice) in a line that would make Gerry proud! 4 were on snow shoes that helped pack it for the rest, and Phill and Jackie prepacked it for us yesterday. jim

PHOTOS

SNOWSHOE 2021 12 09

 Brian's first official led  hike today.. up to Panel Mine road to the Snowshoe trail and true to it's name we were on snowshoes..  swamp was frozen so we skipped the bypass and followed the east trail up to the river crossing... a brief rest and back down the west arm to the cranberry bog... it was frozen enough to walk on so we traversed it and snacked at the logs beside it.. through the thick woods back to the main trail to finish the loop.. did not take me long to get back my rhythm, first hundred yards or so.. scenery was amazing with the deep woods covered in snowy branches.. a cold start but had my jacket open for the return.. that may be due to the pace the trail breakers set... a new Zimbabwe, Irish, English Canadian joined us..  good choice Brian and good leadership.. nearly three hours or wonderful nature and companionship.

PHOTOS

PLAN FOR THURSDAY

 The hike for Thursday is planned for Snowshoe trail. Appropriate footwear will be required, snowshoes are advisable.

Thanks 

Brian Preiswerck

705.849.3149

McCABE LAKE 2021 12 07

 A group of nine hikers appeared to be in mid-season form as they tackled the hilly 7 plus kilometre section of the McCabe Lake Recreation Trail today. Some hikers chose to wear snowshoes, one was in crampons, and others just wore boots as the depth of snow accommodated hikers' choice. We moved along as a finely tuned unit enjoying the sunshine, blue sky, brisk temperatures and camaraderie. Many thanks to sweep Renee and the rest of today's collective. 

PHOTOS

HORNE 2021 12 07

 Monday’s hike, led by Renee, kept us in town on account of weather/road conditions. A group of 8 hikers started out from the Miner’s Memorial to Horne Island. The freshly fallen snow added to the beauty of the trees and cliffs around Horne Lake - a winter wonderland. We added an extra kilometre plus by continuing to the Ski Hill and returning on the ATV trail back to the cars. We were fortunate enough to see 4 bald eagles flying above the cliffs!

PHOTOS

Bloggers note : Renee’s first hike as leader ... another great success

VTA minutes Oct

  Minutes

VTA Coordinating Council Meeting Sunday October 17th, 2021 7pm ZOOM Call

Attendance: Ruth Beaumont, Matt Borutski, Justyce Regular, Mark Crofts (chair and minutes), Kees van Frankenhuyzen, Carolyn Reid, Andy Penekitt, Doug Elson

Regrets: Danae Ingram, Steve Dominy, Martin Turner, Sandra Turgeon, Carole Blaquiere, Kirsten Spence, Kelsey Johanson

Minutes were recorded using ZOOM feature but the file was too huge to email so MC wrote up the minutes.

Introductions: Kaylee introduced herself. Recently moved to SSM from Guelph area. Soon starting maternity leave from work. Willing to do Volunteer Coordinator role.

Accident/Incidents: none reported

Guidebook Committee:

Membership Committee:

Couple of issues:

Membership lapsed for some VTACC members. MC suggested let it go till AGM and problem may work itself out

Notice to VTA members re: AGM. Completed but it was a huge challenge. See below.

VTA mailing list and mass emails to members is very challenging and VTA MailChimp/STRIPE system is not working as it is supposed to. Also affects sending out newsletter. Newsletter is now just posted to Facebook and not all membership are seeing it. Countless hours required to send out a mass email to membership. A fix could cost about $3K. Also links to complexity of VTA membership structure (yearly, 3 year, family, and etc.) and infinite renewal dates. KVH has similar issues tracking the financial side of membership. MC suggested documenting the proposed $3K fix for the VTACC to consider at a future meeting. Other related membership structure issues tabled to future VTACC meeting. Some sections maintain their own member contact lists...so perhaps the centralized VTACC system is redundant?

Constitution says membership committee is also responsible for maintaining a database of landowners. MC suggested not worrying about it for now. Saulteaux has a good pulse on land ownership and that section likely has a higher proportion of private land. Membership Committee doesn’t need to

     

 Guidebook Committee and the VTA Constitution. Should the Constitution be revised to reflect that fact the Guidebook will no longer exists per se. MC suggested that this should be a constitution change for the 2022 VTACC AGM, don’t need to worry about it for this AGM.

Financial Report: KVH offered a verbal update. $12558 in Operating Account now that Guidebook Account has been transferred in. Savings is $10723 GIC is $42574. The VTACC is in a very good financial position. Suggested investing in various projects, let’s use the money.

Insurance Committee: Larry has resigned. Seeking a replacement at the AGM

Strategic Planning Committee: no report

Marketing Committee: Report in preparation for future VTACC. CR discussed a vendor partner to sell any VTA merchandise, so that volunteers don’t have to do it. Not sure revenue potential for VTA. Awaiting a list of potential vendor sponsors from each Club.

Signage: deferred

      Item 1

At the recent VTACC meeting we discussed signage to encourage the many non-members to become members. I have attached an image of the sign that is posted on some of the Saulteaux area trails. I cant say how many memberships these signs have generated, but I'd assume that most folks either ignore or don't notice the sign, or they ignore the message. Maybe the text/format needs a revamp? Does your club use this sign?

Item 2

The "Green Hiker" signs

Saulteaux has a some of these signs, but most are plastic and they degrade in the sun. I have come across too many that are lying in bits at the base of the tree they were once nailed to. If we need more, I propose that the next order would be of the metal type. Attached is a quote. But before i get to that stage I need to know how many other clubs use these signs and how many we already have in inventory. Can you help?

Hiker Hotline: deferred

  Email from Susan Graham: For some years now, I felt the VTA Hikers' Hotline was serving no real use any more. Since it was printed on the bottom of every page of the guidebook, it was felt that it should be kept for the time being. Seeing as we are no longer printing guidebooks and the number has been removed from the web page, etc., I think it is time the number be discontinued. In the past 6 months, I have had exactly 2 calls. One was from a 705 area code, so they didn't require a toll free number anyway. The cost is generally $13.70 per month, which is not a big expense, but an unnecessary one at this point. Also, as I am very often at camp or away, I am not at home at the time that calls come in, so people most likely make inquiries elsewhere, like the website.

 AGM JR reports that we’ll use the Marathon Club ZOOM link for the meeting. Danae formatted the agenda. Ruth reported that the AGM agenda was sent out to the membership

Regarding what positions are vacant? These folks will continue in their position: Doug, Carolyn (but cant attend meeting, so MC asked that she send an email to that effect to the VTACC ) Andy, Ruth, Kees, Mark, Kaylee (but cant attend meeting, so MC asked that she send an email to that effect to the VTACC )

Vacant positions? Likely VP West, Hike Ontario rep (Carolyn volunteered but cant attend meeting, so MC asked that she send an email to that effect to the VTACC )

MC suggested that VTACC members specifically reach out to keen members of their clubs and invite them to the AGM in the hopes that they might step forward for a VTACC position.

CR will send minutes to previous AGM to JR and K to help orient them

Reports from VTACC members: A good idea for each VTACC member to submit a written

report...even if it is just a paragraph. Send those reports to Justyce.

Trail Master DE forwarded funding opportunity through the Trans Canada Trail. DE hopes to get

working on Michipicoten area trail. Trying to contact Lake Superior Park superintendant.

Newsletter/Publicity/Website: email report below submitted prior to meeting. No sub-committee member present so report received for information

● An RFQ was developed with the wants and needs of the VTA moving forward with redeveloping the website. The CC tentatively gave a budget of up to $5000 for the redevelopment. The RFQ asked 5 companies for quotes based on a $3000 budget. No quotes were received.

● The Sub Committee feels that the $3000 was insufficient to complete the tasks contained within the RFQ and that is a major reason why no vendor has submitted a quote.

● The Sub Committee will be contacting the 3 companies that showed interest in the project and ask them for a price point that the VTA and CC should be considering for the website redevelopment. Hopefully these companies can come back to us with a price breakdown of each or most items so we can realistically decide what is necessary for our organization.

● There was some discussion put forward on how to approach Family vs Single memberships, especially related to access to the Ondago app. Should we offer multiple codes for access to the app or just a single? This would be something that would have to be considered and decided at the CC level.

    The Website Redevelopment Sub Committee had a meeting on Saturday Oct. 9th to discuss developments. We do not have a formal Secretary but here is a synopsis of the meeting;

 ● Also, realizing that website development and ongoing maintenance costs money, should the CC consider a raise in membership fees to offset these costs? This might have to become an item at the AGM or a CC meeting in the future. These last two items are added so that the CC is aware of the issues and that they may be considered in the near future.

● There may be one or two cost breakdowns prior to the meeting on the 17th but there is no guarantee on that. As the project develops, the Sub Committee feels confident that we can shoot for an April 1st, 2022 timeline.

Penewobiking: CR reports new parking lot approved from Granary Lk area. Land belongs to Ontario Parks. Park Supt from Massey has been to the site and is OK with plan. Site clearing to start soon. Seeking funding options for gravel, etc. Doug suggested Trans Canada Trail funding..applications due Nov 15

Casque Ilses Report: none submitted

Thessalon Area : SD and Kees have done sone trail audits

SaulteauxReport : submitted prior to meeting. Circulated an email chain re: conflicts with mountain bike trail construction project in the Hiawatha Highlands

Michipicoten/Wawa area: Andy. Hoping to re-open Lake Superior trail. Vallee area trail still needs a bridge over a creek, environmental assessment a prerequisite

Harmony area: KVH reported for Stokely area/Algoma Highlands Conservancy: Robertson Cliff trail. Expect to count over 10,000 hikers in 2021. Ready to install VTA trailhead sign at Robertson Cliffs. Highway sign cost doubled from $500/year. There were two signs, both of which AHC cancelled. Developing funing request to SSM Tourism development fund. Tourism SSM is advertixing the Cliffs hike > use increasing,but no compensation to AHC/VTA to deal with impacts. Possible installation of toilets is an example. Easy to get funding to install, but h not for ongoing maintenance.

Coureur de Bois: no report Nor’wester Report: no report

Marathon/Group of Seven: hiked from Coldwell to marathon is affected by major hydro line development (east-west tie in”). Working with travel and tourism classes from lakehead and high school. Tourism survey to assess local needs. New web site and map.

Hike Ontario Rep: no report

         

 Steve Taylor Award

Mark nominated Larry Gringorten. Nomination seconded by Steve Dominy. Rationale: Larry has been the VTA insurance rep for many years now, taking care of a vital piece of the VTA administration.

All in favour. To be presented at the AGM

Next meeting:

AGM Nov 14 1800

VTA minutes

  Minutes

VTA Coordinating Council Meeting Sunday Dec 5th, 2021 7pm ZOOM Call

Attendance: Matt Borutski, Martin Turner, David Nesbitt, Kirsten Spence, Danaé Ingram, Andy Penikett, Steve Dominy, Mark Crofts, Kelsey Johansen, Justyce Regular, Ruth Beaumont, Chris Leale, Kees Van Frankenhuyzen, Doug Elson

Regrets: Kaylee Moore, Carolynn Reid

Motion to approve Agenda & Minutes from last meeting

Moved by Kirsten Spence

Seconded by Kees Van Frankenhuyzen

Deferred for approval at next meeting. Previous minutes will accompany future Agenda packages.

1 - AGM Recap

a) Acknowledge new positions

New roles include:

President - Matt Borutski

VP West - Kirsten Spence

Publicity Director - Kelsey Johansen

Volunteer Coordinator - Kaylee Moore

Hike Ontario Rep/Insurance Coordinator - Carolynn Reid

DI will send list of new positions & unoccupied positions - KJ would like to post to social media. DI will send list of CC information for tax purposes, add date of joining council to KvF only.

MB asked for clarification on his role as President of VTA and as Casque Isles

Can sit in both, but only has one vote. Ideal to have a different individual in each role.

b) Greetings from the incoming President

Hello everyone, I just wanted to take a few minutes of your time to let you know some of my thoughts on becoming President. I am eager for the challenges that will inevitably come up. As an organisation we are at a point where we are making large changes, most notably moving the Guidebook to a digital format and facing the pitfalls that come with redeveloping our website. At the Casque Isles Club I have become the contact person and administrator. That’s not to say that we don’t have some very good people on board, but they are content and are quite capable of looking after the trail and are willing to let someone else look after administration. More than likely you all have the same experiences within your Clubs. In my experience with the

    

 VTA CC I see individuals who, like me, are not intimidated when it comes to taking on a challenge or new adventure.

I look forward to working with every one of you and getting to know you as individuals. I am usually that guy on the saw, leading point and pushing to get the task done. I completely understand that I will make mistakes, that is part of the learning process. I want you to always feel comfortable calling me on things and reminding me of protocol.

I would like to meet with every Club over the next year, more than likely beginning in the spring. Our association spans a huge piece of this Province and I want to get a true feel of what the issues are with each of you. This association needs each individual Club to be strong and self-sufficient, that is the base of our strength. Without the Clubs, we start to fray at the edges. We will be stronger by maintaining those relationships than by working singularly, but I imagine that all of you already know that.

Thank you all for your continued support of the VTA. I hope to see you in person someday!

Matt Borutski

2- Accident/Incidents:

a) Casque Isles Hiking Trail:

Sunday, Sept. 19 2021, evening.

An 80 year old woman from Terrace Bay fractured her ankle when she fell on the Red Chairs Trail east of Terrace Bay Beach. The trail has been classified as difficult and the trailhead sign was erected on Friday, Sept. 17 2021. Ambulance paramedics had the injured on a backboard when the FD arrived for a Lift Assist.

3-30-3 Rule: Most people who hike a lot, will look at posted trail information for 3 secs; those who hike infrequently will look for 30 secs; someone new should look for 3 mins & review trail information.

Looking to add more signage in light of this incident.

KJ: Has been looking into risk management in regional clubs near her. Some of the signage used may be useful to us, the VTA. These signs provide info on how long it may take EMS to arrive on location, plus an evacuation beacon point per kilometre on trails 5km or longer. These beacons give wayfinding details, information on risk management. She has photos of this that can be circulated.

MT: Could we consider adding notes on what cell reception is like?

MB: On CI trails, cell coverage is spotty and is in & out. Would be hard to put on a sign, due to different providers, etc. Perhaps a generic “Cell coverage may be spotty” would be best.

KvF: Important that proper signs be provided, but keep in mind that people won’t always read them. More signs we put up, could lead to sign overload and less people reading at all.

 

 MB: Parks Canada has taken to putting the signage at places of interest, not just entrances for this reason.

3 - Guidebook Committee:

Outstanding tasks are to complete the Ondago app and have the full version ready to launch in Spring, (April 1st tentatively) with one trail section that has no demo at this time.

Also seeking ads ready for the launch, which will hopefully be taken care of with the new Sponsorship package. Please be prepared to review when the package is ready.

If there are major or minor changes to the trails in your area, please let Steve know.

If individual clubs have funds available to put towards printable maps, please advise.

4 - Membership Committee:

Follow up from Oct 17: Membership lapsed for some VTACC members. MC suggested let it go till AGM and problem may work itself out.

Is there an update on this?

RB: VTA CC memberships are up to date. New secretary for Coureur de Bois (Sue) has been in communication with Ruth to try to streamline the process. Last week Ruth sent out about 10 more membership cards. She also sends reminder emails for memberships coming due, which includes direction on renewing. After 2 attempts, will move lapsed member to a second list and assume they wish to discontinue membership. This is a monthly process. MailChimp is a bit laborious to use for this purpose.

KJ: Starts social media membership posts in January to help.

KvF: If people pay via EMT, who receives the email notification and deposits it? He does not have access to the email account.

KJ: Is it set up for autodeposit?

RB: Will have to check & review the process if a member wishes to use e-transfer. UPDATE: DB receives the email, and then there is often back and forth to get further information from the sender.

KvF: e-Transfers are available for those who prefer not to use credit card or cheque. Unless the person puts their information into the ‘notes’ section of the transfer, we may have a lot of tracking to ensure it is received and applied properly. We may need to look into getting rid of all the different levels and durations. Our membership structure is too complicated. Results in a big job for the Membership Committee too.

MB: We had discussed this during our guidebook discussions, based on receiving the new access code for the app to line up with membership renewals and all being 1 year terms.

KJ: Recalls in a prior meeting that we discussed this, and there were objections due to the workload that this would result in once/year and the need to decide how mid-year joiners could

  

 be accommodated.

KvF: An April 1st renewal date makes sense, would like to bring this conversation back.

RB: If this were to go forward, is it time to make the membership card electronic? This is a costly and antiquated system with the physical card.

SD: Website SubCommittee is looking into the new site and this has been raised. An e-card option should be made available so that you get your card once you make your membership purchase. This also brings forward the membership fee structure conversation which will need a decision in the coming months as well.

KS: There are a lot of pieces that all correlate here, which will need a full review to bring together.

KvF: Wants to push for people to use the online system. Perhaps use an incentive - cheaper to sign up online vs. via cheque for example. For the investment we’ve put into our online system, let’s push to use it more.

MB: A review of other organizations could be useful here.

KJ: Sent a proposal approx 6 months ago. DI will re-circulate per request.

SD: Membership Committee is confused with Membership Benefits SubCommittee.

RB: Was still coming up to speed on VTA when the SubCommittee was formed, so elected to abstain from it at that time.

KvF: The SubCommittee was focussed on benefits - being SWAG etc. and this type of discussion was not part of the scope.

5 - Financial Report:

Still have a very healthy bank balance with $13500 in operating, $10k in savings and our GIC which is $45-50k.

Have been spending a lot, but the operating balance has not dwindled because we’re bringing in a lot too.

KvF recalls that we made membership projections last year, and we have done well by them. He has not updated our ledgers on a monthly basis. The difficulty is that a lot of the transactions on statements are Stripe transactions. Will require a Stripe report to cross-reference and update ledgers. Suggests that a Stripe report at the end of December to cover July - Dec would work. Twice/year should suffice.

SD: Suggests that it would be ideal to automate the WooCommerce Report with the Stripe Report, as right now it is laborious and manual.

KvF: Stripe goes by date of deposit, but Woo goes by date of purchase so this makes things tricky. This is a negative consequence of the Stripe system. From an accounting point of view, it’s not good.

6 - Insurance Committee:

Follow up from AGM - can Hike Ontario Rep and Insurance Coordinator be the same person? *HO AGM is December 4th - Carolynn’s nomination will be put forward & approved at that time.

  

 Article 3 of the Constitution does not include Insurance Coordinator as part of the coordinating council. See below in number 2. Insurance Coordinator is mentioned in the by-laws under duties.

ARTICLE 3 - COORDINATING COUNCIL

1. The Coordinating Council exists: a) to transact the business of the Association. b) to decide and enact policies of the Association. c) to guide the development and operation of the Trail. d) to provide communication between Clubs.

2. The business of the Association shall be directed by a Coordinating Council, including the following officers who will serve as its executive: President, Past President, Vice-Presidents: East, Central, and West, Treasurer/Tool Master, Recording Secretary, Membership Secretary/Landowner Database Administrator, Publicity Director, Trails Master, Hike Ontario Representative, Guidebook Coordinator, Newsletter Editor, and a Standing Committee of all club executives but no more than two representatives with voting privileges from each recognized active club (elected by the club's membership).

The number of officers may increase or decrease as deemed necessary by the Coordinating Council. Where possible Except in the case of President as noted in this Article, it will be discouraged to hold two positions on the Coordinating Council concurrently. Each person shall have one vote for the transaction of business except the Chair of the meeting. (Refer to Article 3.8).

In no case shall the Positions of President and Treasurer be held concurrently by the same individual.

In the event, and as long as there is no candidate elected to the position of President of the VTA and the position stands to remain vacant, it shall be fulfilled on a rotating basis by each Vice-President in turn for a period of two (2) years from election year to election year.

MC: She’s willing to take on both roles and he does not see anything to suggest she cannot do this.

MB: Per Item 2, these do not conflict because Insurance Coordinator is not a voting position. KJ: In what authority would CR then vote and how does that affect our bylaws.

MB: Insurance Co is not a CC member, thus she would be voting as the HO Rep.

KJ: Could we circulate for the new members of the committee whether they have voting rights and in what capacity based on their positions. Up until this point, we’ve gone ahead with whoever was on the call.

KS: After our AGM, she went through Bylaws and made a list of which positions are specifically mentioned. Some are ambiguous. Would be happy to re-write bylaws for the next AGM to make these more clear.

 KvF: Update is required due to new incorporation legislation as well. This will reflect email and proxy votes, etc. Very opportune time to review & revamp our bylaws.

KJ: Based on your reading of the Bylaws, do you see a conflict in this item?

KS: No other indication that this will be a conflict. Would be ideal to have a different individual per position, but with a willing volunteer it makes sense for her to hold the role. Board could propose Bylaw Amendments in between AGMs, which will then be ratified at the AGM.

MB: Hike Ontario Rep is listed as a member of Executive per Item 2 above.

KS: There is an additional section not included here which gives more information as well.

KJ: Benefit of merging roles is that we don’t require multiple people in roles that have a lot of overlap.

Motion to merge Insurance Coordinator and Hike Ontario Representative roles to one Coordinating Council position with one vote and is considered a member of the Executive.

Motion to approve: Kelsey Johansen Seconded: Kees Van Frankenhuyzen All in Favour.

None opposed.

7 - Strategic Planning Committee:

There is not a Strategic Planning Committee per se.

a) Membership Benefits Sub-Committee Report

-CR completed scan of other hiking clubs, compared prices, inclusions, merchandise options

-pricing obtained from different retailers with the aim of starting small & then ramping up with merchandise as we learn what the demand is + reducing need to manage and distribute inventory ourselves (increase in time & cost to do that)

SD: Of the vendors that CR approached, several are in SSM, one in Thunder Bay. There could be advantages to using a vendor with local pick up to save on postage/shipping. The Thunder Bay vendor has more sustainable fabrics & options.

MC: Sustainable options are very appealing.

MB: This is the vendor we’ve used for CI club. Have been happy working with them. Only issue with sustainable clothing is that white colour options can be tricky. Ungali has had some trouble sourcing, but is reputable and great to work with. Nice light hiking shirt option if we go in that direction.

SD: Did Ungali offer buffs? *To be confirmed

KS: Special attention & thanks to Carolynn for the immense amount of work that went into putting all of this information together.

KvF: Could you clarify whether we are looking to have multiple retailers or one?

KJ: One is being looked at, due to uniformity of items and management.

KvF: Highly in favour of using a vendor who offers the webstore, as it could become very burdensome to distribute ourselves.

 

 MB: His club received a lot of requests for patches, these go well.

SD: There is a SSM company that has our logo digitized. Anyone can bring an item there to have it embroidered. Could look at having that service in other cities as well.

KS: Does the VTA have possession of that digitized file? Worth having as it is the most costly amount when moving into embroidery. Good to have in the future in case we use other vendors.

KJ: Ungali does do multiple products, but we only requested detail on a few.

MB: Need to also consider how costly it can be to sit on inventory. Hats preferable, or other one-size items.

DI/KJ: Focussing on hats, Buffs, etc. is more inclusive and addresses the issue of the costliness of multiple sizes.

MC: Will defer a motion till we know that Ungali does Buffs as well.

KJ: Does anyone have the capacity to visit locations and check on the item quality?

KvF: Would be good to order one of each for this purpose.

MB: Will be near one of their storefronts, will visit and report back.

MT: Why is Superior Sentiments such a higher price?

KJ: Hopefully due to quality, that is why it would be ideal to get actual items to check quality.

MB: Higher quality can mean heavier shirt, which can be uncomfortable to hike in.

RB: Will visit SK in SSM to check quality.

SD: Will contact T&T and Superior Sentiments.

KJ: We’ll have a show & tell at the next meeting.

MB: Prefers taking time to ensure great product and good store fit before committing. MT: Can’t hurt to show other members the product and get feedback prior to next meeting.

8 - Marketing Committee:

NA

9 - Trail Reports:

Casque Isles Report:

The Red Chairs Trail to the east of Terrace Bay Beach has been completed. The Trail has been classified as difficult and has been signed and marked accordingly. See incident report above. The Picnic Table Lookout Trail is complete and has been signed off by Club President Borutski and Township of Schreiber CEDC Dominique Charbonneau. All payments have been transferred to the contractor. The trail has been signed and marked. The Trail begins at the A6 Access at the far south end of Schreiber and extends for 2 km to the Picnic Table Lookout. 1.8 km of the trail can be classified as easy/intermediate and the remaining 200 m is classified as intermediate. KM markers have been relocated to the proper distance as per GPS from KM 0 at Rossport to KM 16. Club members will be invited to hike the trail using their phones and apps to see how these line up before more progress will be made in 2022.

  

 Coureur de Bois: Have a new executive council, will send names later in month. New trailmasters, new VP. Thursday afternoon hikes are the “Senior Hikes”, less than 1.5 hrs on flat terrain have been well attended (25-30 people per hike). Have 8 new certified hike leaders and a hike leader trainer.

Echo Ridges:

Harmony area: Michipicoten/Wawa area:

Marathon/Group of Seven: Nor’wester Report:

Penewobikong: Rossport Coastal Trail:

Matt Borutski has discussed the status of this trail with Dawn King, Chairperson of the Rossport Tourism Association. Due to declining membership on the RTA they will more than likely divest themselves of the Trail at their next meeting. The CIHC has discussed taking the Coastal Trail into our portfolio but it hasn’t been addressed at a meeting as of yet. There is no formal Club attached to the Coastal Trail and it was added to the CIHC when the Coastal Trail was created. The trail has become an important asset in the area and sees a lot of traffic in the tourist season. It needs to be marked better and the trailhead signs need to be updated to include safety information. The CIHC has performed the maintenance and annual audits on the trail for the last 2 years. An update will be provided to the CC when any decision is made.

Looking to avoid highway routes, due to risk.

Saulteaux Report : Sent report re: bike structures built. When he spoke with TCT, they were under the impression that the City SSM money was there to upgrade the VTA trail rather than building a new trail. Likely some issue in information between the parties whether this is a bike trail or hiking trail. Original application when it was evaluated said that the new trail was along the VTA trail, she took that to mean it would be on the VTA trail. The Saulteaux section didn’t see a need for any re-routing, so the City SSM trail parallels and starts/finishes with the VTA trail. Lack of analysis and poor choices of wording at play.

KJ: Will the new trail be signed as TCT?

MC: City is bound to sign it as TCT. He was assured that the VTA trail is TCT, so now there is a yellow loop trail off of the main white blazed trail.

KS: A lot of examples of this, not the first time it’s happened.

MC: Can make a more full report at the next meeting. Right now there is a lot of hearsay, so he does not want to jump to any conclusions.

KS: If there is upgrading funding in the future, which would have the priority? Signage will also be a question.

MB: Worth writing a letter from VTA to raise our profile and ensure communication lines are

 clearer in the future.

MC: Thought that we were a full partner with TCT for a situation like this, but it didn’t happen in this situation.

8. Other

a) Signage: Carry over from Oct 17:

Item 1

  At the recent VTACC meeting we discussed signage to encourage the many non-members to become members. I have attached an image of the sign that is posted on some of the Saulteaux area trails. I can't say how many memberships these signs have generated, but I'd assume that most folks either ignore or don't notice the sign, or they ignore the message. Maybe the text/format needs a revamp? Does your club use this sign?

Item 2

The "Green Hiker" signs

Saulteaux has a some of these signs, but most are plastic and they degrade in the sun. I have come across too many that are lying in bits at the base of the tree they were once nailed to. If we need more, I propose that the next order would be of the metal type. Attached is a quote. But before I get to that stage I need to know how many other clubs use these signs and how many we already have in inventory. Can you help?

MC: One issue is that the Saulteaux signs for main access points (green hiker) need to be done in metal. Looking to find out if other clubs use these, if so, should we order a higher quantity to have in our inventory?

MB: We don’t on CI

MT: Use them in Elliott Lake, but mostly for your car if you’re parking on the side of the road so that it signals you’re hiking. We don’t use them on the trailhead.

KS: Had some in Marathon, but they got torn down & they were not put back up.

MC: There was some conversation about using other signs that invite people to join the VTA. However, if more signs were made up, does anyone else want to use them too? This is the sign with the QR code.

KS: Given the conversation about Risk Management using signs, this could be a timely junction to come up with a signage plan for uniformity and a risk update overall.

 KvF: Thinks this is a good approach. Does not believe it will encourage people to join, in his experience with LSWC they have not seen more than 1 response from their signs with the QR codes. Worries it causes sign overload.

MB: Could you clarify if the signs you are referring to are for wayfinding or branding?

MC: Conversation started re: a question about signs that point people to the VTA.

MB: Thinks they would use social media more for encouraging new memberships.

KJ: Should avoid pulling a TCT and ordering a large amount of signs, only to have to change them again in 2 years. Supports a signage plan to be developed.

KS: For a signage plan, should look at integrated signage across clubs, etc. Supports a signage plan.

KJ: If we’re looking at revamping trail, risk management, etc. there is clearly a need for additional signage. Could create cohesion across network and benefit everyone so that we’re not all doing the same thing separately.

MC: The only sign that binds clubs across VTA is the one with the spelling mistake. :)

KS: Going back to trailhead signing is important from an insurance perspective. Need to find funding and hire someone to do this.

KJ: Really stresses that a cohesive plan is needed, cites past examples where money was spent and wasn’t fully optimized. Could we have a committee that looks for funding and submits and RFP for that?

MB: Destination Northern Ontario is putting a lot of emphasis on wayfinding. Revamping signage would likely be successful for grants. Will report on how the Casque Isles did all of this.

Agreement that a committee can be struck in the near future to seek funding for wayfinding review. Will look to Matt’s experience with Casque Isles to help inform before a committee will be put together. Should look at what common signage is required per insurance and that messaging is communicated to clubs. Other signs could fall under more general guidelines. This would also be very helpful for clubs trying to navigate signage.

RB: From personal experience, she has hiked the VTA many times without realizing there was a membership option. It was not until she hiked with others who asked her about membership that she was made aware. Signage would be helpful for this type of market.

b) Hiker Hotline: Carry over from Oct 17:

 Email from Susan Graham: For some years now, I felt the VTA Hikers' Hotline was serving no real use any more. Since it was printed on the bottom of every page of the guidebook, it was felt that

  it should be kept for the time being. Seeing as we are no longer printing guidebooks and the number has been removed from the web page, etc., I think it is time the number be discontinued. In the past 6 months, I have had exactly 2 calls. One was from a 705 area code, so they didn't require a toll free number anyway. The cost is generally $13.70 per month, which is not a big expense, but an unnecessary one at this point. Also, as I am very often at camp or away, I am not at home at the time that calls come in, so people most likely make inquiries elsewhere, like the website.

MC: The calls go to Susan’s house. The usage is very low, likely not worth the cost. On her recommendation, he will motion:

Motion: Move that we cease the Hiker Hotline. Moved by MC

Seconded by MT

All in favour

None opposed.

 c) Trail Master Report:

Looking to meet with new volunteers and is trying to work with parks to move forward, but is not getting any return contact.

d) Newsletter/Publicity/Website:

No report, except that support from membership needed on social media and with the newsletter. Will be receiving a new council list so that she can reach out and do a welcome campaign with a request for additional volunteers.

e) Hike Ontario Rep Report: NA

f) Volunteer Support (Email from Kirsten, Oct 29):

The VTA has grown quite a bit in the past few years. There are new volunteers that have stepped forward to give their time to keep the organization running which is a blessing as without them, there is no VTA.

That being said, I propose that the VTA spend some funds to make the job of volunteers easier and most importantly - time efficient.

1. Newsletter – Kelsey elevated the professionalism of the VTA with a beautiful newsletter format. There were many complements on the polished look and is a great membership recruitment tool. The cost of Issu is less than $20/month. She’s outlined the benefits and features that would further the work and fundraising opportunities included in the software in previous meetings.

2. Membership – this has turned into a fulltime job to manage the membership of the VTA. There are platforms that help manage the membership, send out reminders, reduce the time to input

 data, manage payment etc. The cost of a platform like Wild Apricot is $40/month. There are

many out there and are very reasonably priced.

3. Zoom – Using the Hike Ontario account has been helpful but the amount of time that is wasted

waiting for them to start the meeting, calling them because they forgot etc is getting old. One licence for $250/year could be shared out amongst the clubs to use as well. That would be a value added service the CC can provide clubs. Schedule meetings, everyone would see when a meeting is scheduled and plan around if another meeting is being planned. The cost of this is less than the mileage paid to club members to attend an AGM.

Having worked for Not-For-Profit organizations for almost my whole working career, I understand the value of a dollar and trying to keep organizations financially afloat. But there comes a time when an organization needs to spend some funds for the sake of retaining volunteers. Having dedicated volunteers is a difficult thing to attract and has a cost as well. Spending less than $1,000/year to support those volunteers and grow the organization is money very well spent. I bet the growth of the organization using these tools would more than offset the cost in the long run and would go a long way in supporting our dedicated volunteers and helping to professionalize the VTA.

MB: Could support a Zoom account for the VTA. Would need to look into what we need in our Zoom account.

KS: Group of Seven spends $250USD per year for their subscription, but this does not include call in numbers. Not sure if that would be an issue. Thinks we should spend money on things that help our volunteers. There could be multiple benefits to doing this.

SD: Did we not approve a budget for the newsletter?

KJ: We agreed to purchase the Canva account and the Newsletter issue account. WIll need a higher level issue account going forward.

Motion to pay for VTA Zoom account. Forwarded by: Kirsten Spence Seconded by: Kees Van Frankenhuyzen All in favour.

None opposed.

Motion that the VTA purchase an extended issue membership that allows 2 or more collaborators to work on a single publication, and that allows us to do more publications, generate ad revenue, and provide analytics. (approx. $20 USD monthly, due to the current 50% off promotion).

Forwarded by: Kelsey Johansen

Seconded by: Kees Van Frankenhuyzen

All in favour.

None opposed.

g) Highlight/Reminder: National Trail Youth Employment Program

National Trail Youth Employment Program

Are you planning to hire young employees over the winter? You can receive a 50% subsidy of up to $3,500, per youth employee!

 This funding is also available retroactively to April 1, 2021, for any youth who were employed over the spring and summer.

We encourage all employers to support youth who face barriers to employment and access to the trail sector.

Start your application here: National Trail Youth Employment Program Funding is available for youth employed until March 31, 2022

h) Adding Information to the VTA web site for landowners (Email chain from Mark, Nov 29)

Via email chain starting Nov 29, Carolynn Reid reached out to Hike Ontario to review content and comment on insurance coverage for Landowners.

Document is with HO currently, and the final draft will be put on un-editable letterhead and added to our site.

Draft of this document attached in meeting package.

Deferred to next meeting.

Next meeting: February 13 2021, 7pm

Move to adjourn MB Seconded by KS

  

WILKIE LAKE TRAIL CLEARING 2021 12 03

Friday morning 6 of us met at the Wilkie Lake Trail head. Chilly morning with the frost on the trees gleaming like little diamonds. We filled out toboggans with gear and headed down the trail to where we left off a few weeks ago. There was still approximately 2km of trail to go. We stopped for a short lunch at 11:30 and then pushed the last km down to the lake. It is now cleared to the lake. The trail is approximately 4.25km long.

We were all really tired when we finished.

Thanks to those that came out to help.

PHOTOS

ESTEN TRAIL 2021 12 04

 Fourteen hikers braved very icy conditions on the trails to Esten Lake today. The fresh snow covered ice resulting from the recent thaw/freeze and it was necessary to keep to the very sides of the trails to avoid calamity. Blue sky and sunshine kept the temperatures comfortable and all enjoyed a pleasant walk in the woods, with the usual great conversation.

PHOTOS

Blogger note:   Julie’s first hike as the leader ... great job on a very slippery day !!

SENIORS MCCABE 2021 12 02

 We were contemplating Summer Lake Rd., also known as Larry's Lane to some "not so old" old timers, but due to the weather conditions 17 hikers wound up on the McCabe recreation trail instead. There were some slushy sections, once we crossed Bill and Bonnie creek! Terry, Frank and Jim were reminiscing about the "good old days" before computers and cell phones, when our mum's whistled for us to come home for supper, after the 3rd street light came on! Thank-you Chuck for ANOTHER great seniors' hike. No pictures, but lots of greatest memories! We also said farewell to Joan Doucette (sp?) jim

SUMMERS LAKE 2021 12 02

 A change in venue today due to the rain last night. Instead of going to Bolgers Lake, 5 hardy? souls left the parking lot at the bank and drove up Dunlop Shores road to the trailhead for Summers Lake. There were a few water obstacles and a truck that we had to get off of the trail to allow it to pass, other than that it was fairly good. there was minimal ice due to the rain last night.

The sun managed to come out a few times which brightened up the hike a bit. We came across some fresh bear cub tracks. No sign of the mother. All in all it was a really nice hike.

PHOTOS

CAN YOU HELP OUT ??

Hi everyone !  One of our new members who joined in July, now has a therapy dog which is being trained over the next couple of years.   Cheryl and the dog need to be together all the time.   She has asked if any club members are going for a hike outside regularly scheduled club hikes could she and the dog join you ? 

The best way to contact her is to send an email to elhiking@gmail.com and Bill ( the Blogger) will connect you . 

Thanks