News
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December 23, 2010
On behalf of the Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association Board of Directors I would like to extend our best to you and your family over the Christmas Season. We hope you have a safe and joyous Christmas holiday and a Happy New Year in 2011.
We had a busy year at NSORRA in 2010 and I would like to thank our volunteer board for continuing to advance the quality of Off Road Riding in Nova Scotia.
A few highlights in 2010.
- New Kids loops at our three riding areas.
- Development of a new riding area in Lunenburg for 2011.
- Continued discussions with Councilors for a riding area in HRM.
- Increased our corporate memberships.
- Increased our general membership to over 300 riders.
- Maintained annual training numbers of 50 riders a year.
- New Executive Director, and continued support from our Corporate Liaison and Trails Consultant.
- Working with the Minister of Natural Resources and the Ministers Advisory Committee to expand riding opportunities in NS.
- Hosted events in the Valley and in CB.
Goals for 2011.
- Support increases in funding levels for 2011/2012
- Maintain and expand riding areas in Nova Scotia.
- Create new riding areas in HRM and Lunenburg Co.
- Increase membership base, train more riders and coaches.
- Increase Membership benefits- Discounted Insurance for members will be offered in 2011. More events for members to participate in.
- MX track insurance for training days.
We look forward to continued growth in 2011 and extend our gratitude to members and volunteers for their tireless efforts over the last three years.
Merry Christmas! All the Best for 2011.
Matthew Christie – Executive Director NSORRA
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December 1, 2010
Canada Now!, the monthly newsletter from the Motorcycle and Moped Industry Council and the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council is now available. It is news and information for the Canadian Motorcycle and ATV Industry.
NOVEMBER 2010 - ENGLISH
NOVEMBER 2010 - FRENCH
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November 19, 2010
Recreational Trails are a Defining National Characteristic of Canada --
National Trails Coalition Study Finds
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia --The National Trails Coalition (NTC) is pleased to announce the release of a comprehensive “Canadian Trails Study” (click to view/download) that has identified more than 269,000 kilometres of managed trails throughout Canada. This study provides an overview of managed trails in Canada and an analysis of the most important developments during the past decade for Canadian trails.
This study also documents the current trail inventory across Canada and looks at existing management practices for trail development and maintenance. It also reviews the differences between single use and shared use trails as well as urban and rural trails. Many of these trails are single use such as snowmobiling, hiking, cross country skiing, cycling, mountain biking, horseback riding, ATVing or off-road motorcycling. The research has also determined that there are currently more than 35,000 kilometres of managed trails in Canada that are shared use trails.
“The overall purpose of this study was to publish accurate information that is currently not available to the public,” stated Terry Norman, National Coordinator for the NTC. Norman added that, “The primary objective of this study was to gather data about existing Canadian trails and their uses in order to understand the big picture. This type of research and analysis had not been done before.”
The NTC vision and that of its member's provincial associations, federations, clubs and community trail groups is one of a comprehensive national trail network developed through partnerships with all stakeholders. As demand for additional managed trails in Canada is increasing it will be even more important, in future years, to share the scarce land we have available for recreation resources and maximize the benefit for all Canadians. This study is a first step in examining the current trail inventory across Canada and the management practices for trail development and maintenance.
During a nine-month period in 2009-2010, through the Government of Canada’s Economic Action Plan (EAP), over $23.2 million of federal government funding was distributed by NTC to infrastructure investments in 474 recreational trail projects across Canada. Funding partners provided another $33.3 million. The total investment in these projects amounted to $56.5 million.
The NTC was founded in 2007 based on a common belief that cooperative approaches and support at the national level would facilitate trail building and refurbishment activities; be beneficial to the long term sustainability of all forms of trail-based activities; stimulate economic activity and development in communities; and contribute to healthy living and individual well-being across the country. The NTC
through its member organizations represents millions of Canadian citizens who enjoy and participate in outdoor activities on managed trails.
The National Trails Coalition includes the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations, the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council and the Canadian Trails Federation. Membership in these national level organizations is drawn from provincial and territorial organizations or from the private sector through the contributions of manufacturers and distributors of trail-related vehicles, products and
services. Virtually all forms of trail-based activity are represented under the Coalition banner.
To learn more about the National Trails Coalition and to access a copy of the Canadian Trails Study, visit the www.ntc-canada.ca website.
Contact:
Terry Norman
NTC National Coordinator
1-902-429-8810
tnorman@ntc-canada.ca
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February 1, 2010
NSORRA Members can now join the Association by completing a fillable PDF form and paying on-line with PayPal. Visit the How to Join page to complete a 2010 membership application or renewal.
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Oct. 28, 2009
When the NSORRA Board of Directors highlighted trail development as a key priority for 2009 at their 2008 Annual General Meeting, even they had little sense of just how true that would be. Just five months later, the Association has three new trails completed, and at least one more in development.
On October 3, 18 and 24, opening events were held on new and refurbished South Alton, Hiltz Road and Craigmore Creek riding areas. These opening events provided an opportunity for members to enjoy the new trails and help celebrate the Association's successful trail-building efforts.
The South Alton opening took place as part of a Hare Scramble on Oct. 3. The trail on this popular riding spot was significantly refurbished, with several significant re-routings to improve drainage and sustainability of the trail. The trail is on land owned by Steve Parkinson. The riding trail is open to NSORRA members on a seasonal basis - riders are welcome so long as trail rules are followed.
The Hiltz Road opening introduced a brand-new riding trail near Hall's Harbour. Landowner David Lacey has also enthusiastically welcomed NSORRA riders to the area. The opening ride took place on Oct. 17-18, and several riders have been back to experience this scenic trail, which caters to riders of varying skill level.
Finally, a trail opening ride took place on Saturday, Oct. 24 at the Craigmore Creek Off Road Motorcycle Park in Craigmore, Cape Breton. This challenging trail, built into a steep hill overlooking the ocean offers spectacular vistas and also has a training area and MX park. It's a great riding location for riders of all skill levels. The Eastern Group of Companies are the landowners.
All riding areas are open to NSORRA members, when seasonal riding conditions permit. Please ensure that you ride safely and respect the environment, other riders, and our generous land owners who have provided access. Rules for use of the trails are currently being posted at all riding locations - please read and follow them to ensure that the trails are around for future enjoyment!
Thanks are extended to the landowners, trail crews, and to the many volunteers who contributed tirelessly to make these trails possible!
South Alton Opening Ceremony
For more photos of the opening events, view our gallery.
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October 15, 2009
We are very happy to announce that NSORRA will host the Second Annual Drive to Ride on our newly constructed Hiltz Road trail, not far from Hall’s Harbour. The ride is set for both Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 17 & 18. Come join us to celebrate this great new riding location, just over an hour from the HRM.
NSORRA will host another trail opening event on Saturday, Oct. 24 (rain date: Oct. 25) at the Craigmore Creek ORM Park, in Craigmore, Cape Breton - just a few KMs from the Canso Causeway.
The trail rides will all start at 10:00, after a brief opening ceremony and ribbon cutting. A light lunch will be provided for all participants.
At the Craigmore ride, there will also be an opportunity for youth training. If you are interested in registering for the training please contact Steve Smith at motorcycle.training@ns.sympatico.ca.
These rides are also part of the NSORRA annual membership drive for 2010, so come out and enjoy the day with like minded off road and dualsport riders. 2009 or 2010 membership is required in order to participate. Applications will be available and fees will be accepted at the gate. Please feel free to bring friends along to the ride, however if they are not members, they will be asked to join on-site before participating. Current members will be strongly encouraged to renew their 2009 memberships for 2010. Membership for the 2010 year is $15 for adults, $7.50 for youth under 19, and $35 for a family (2 adults and up to 3 youth). All members paying on site (renewals and new memberships) will receive a NSORRA T-shirt!!
Directions to the Hiltz Road Trail (for rides on Oct. 17 and 18)
Proceed west from Halifax on Hwy 101
Directions to the Craigmore Creek Trail (for the ride on Oct. 24):
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Take exit 15E toward PEI Ferry / New Glasgow / Cape Breton on 104 East.
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Proceed to the roundabout just over the Canso Causeway on Cape Breton Island.
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Enter roundabout and take 1st exit on left to Provincial Route 19.
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After about 14 km, begin watching for signs.
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Park is on your right, just past a grey barn with a green roof.
Please make sure that you are in compliance with all requirements under Nova Scotia’s Off Highway Vehicle Act, including training, licencing and bike registration.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Michael Traves,
President, NSORRA
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August 24, 2009
The NSORRA Board of Directors is very pleased to announce that it will be investing $200,000 in trail development over the coming months, thanks to funding received from Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the National Trails Coalition, the Canadian Off Highway Vehicle Distributors’ Council, and Nova Scotia’s Off Highway Vehicle Ministerial Advisory Committee. The federal funds are part of the Government of Canada’s $25 million investment in recreational trails across Canada.
NSORRA will be investing the funds in the development of three new trails (in Cape Breton, one near Hall’s Harbour, and one in an as-yet-to-be-determined HRM location), and the expansion and refurbishment of an existing trail in South Alton. In addition to cutting new trails and refurbishing existing ones, the projects will include development of parking / loading areas, and rider training facilities.
With regard to the trail planned for HRM, NSORRA is seeking expressions of interest from land-owners in the HRM who might be interested in having a public access trail and training area built on their land. A minimum of 50 acres is required. If you have land that might be suitable for this purpose, please contact the association at 902-425-2445 or cjames@pathfinder-group.com.
A huge amount of volunteer effort went into the development of complex funding proposals within a very short time frame. Many thanks to all volunteers who helped secure the funds, and to those who are assisting with project implementation locally. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact Christine James, Executive Director, at cjames@pathfinder-group.com.
We will keep members informed of our trail-building progress, and of plans for opening celebration events when the trails are ready for riding.
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Aug. 24, 2009
NSORRA was very proud to learn that Nova Scotia Motocross Rider Mitch Cooke will compete with the Canadian 2009 Motocross des Nations Team in Italy this October. NSORRA has signed on as a sponsor for Mitch – a move that will help support his race effort, while providing the Association with great profile in Canada and internationally.
Congratulations Mitch! We will be cheering you on!
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Given the up coming election the executive of NSORRA emailed the leaders of the Liberal, PC, NDP and Green Parties the following questionnaire regarding their perspectives on trails and motorzied access:
NSORRA Political Party Survey
These are the responses we have received to date:
Liberal
PC
NDP
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The Nova Scotia Off Road Riders held a very successful Annual General Meeting on Sunday, May 24, 2009 in Lakeside, NS.
22 Members gathered to hear President Paul Wamboldt report on the accomplishments of 2008, and the projects and priorities facing the Association for 2009. NSORRA's Committee Chairs (Carmen D'Intino - Membership; Chris Thompson - Trails; and Steve Smith - Training) also reported on their activities of the past year. The achievements of 2008, and the Association's financial statements, can be found in the 2008 Annual Report.
Members approved a fee structure for membership in NSORRA for 2010, and also approved a Bylaw revision that will facilitate timing of the AGM to coincide with other late-Spring Association activities.
A new Board of Directors was elected, and congratulations are extended to Michael Traves, NSORRA's new President. Paul Wamboldt, NSORRA's past president, was thanked for his long-standing commitment and contribution to the Association. Paul will continue to play a role with the Board as Vice-Chair. Both Paul and Joe Treen were acknowledged for their contributions as co-founders of the Association.
Draft Minutes from the AGM can be downloaded here.
Thanks are sent out to all members who joined us for the AGM and provided their comments, questions and feedback to the Board. With trail access and development high on the priority list for 2009, we know that we have an interesting, challenging year ahead of us!
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Nova Scotia - As stated in the Off-highway Vehicle Action Plan (October 2005) the government of Nova Scotia established a Ministerial Advisory Committee (OHVMAC) to advise government of concerns, recommendations and opportunities related to Off-highway Vehicle (OHV) use in Nova Scotia. As members of the committee, organizations such as the Snowmobilers Association of NS (SANS), All Terrain Vehicle Association of NS (ATVANS), NS Off-Road Riders Association (NSORRA), and member of the NS Trails Federation (NSTF) work together to monitor and advise government on the implementation of its “Action Plan”.
What is even more important is the fact that representatives from the non-motorized and motorized trail user groups, as members of the Presidents Council, sit at the table discussing ways to implement safe, quality and environmentally responsible infrastructure that works for trail users but at the same time meets provincial guidelines as outlined in Developing Recreational Trails in Nova Scotia.
Members of the Presidents Council are excited about the progress made in the development and expansion of trails around Nova Scotia and believe that the mix of motorized and non- motorized groups working together gives this council the expertise it needs to guarantee that Nova Scotia is able to accommodate everyone who wants to enjoy Nova Scotia’s great outdoors.
In fact, what makes this truly a community effort is that everyone brings something to the table. Motorized groups contribute funding, trail development expertise, and the volunteer manpower required to do the physical work on these trails. This is complemented by the individuals associated with non-motorized groups who bring the necessary organizational skills, advice and community contacts who can help to move these projects forward.
With health and physical fitness being top of mind for most families and for the health care system in Nova Scotia, we believe this is a great opportunity for all stakeholders to prove that being out on the trails, whether through non-motorized or motorized recreational use, is not only fun but contributes to individual and family well-being.
Recognizing that we have only begun to scratch the surface of trail use as a recreation and tourism potential, partnerships between not- for- profits, governments, landowners and the private sector will lead to sustainability (ie. maintenance plan, etc.), reasonable public access and reduce land use conflicts and inappropriate OHV use by establishing approved multi-use, motorized and non-motorized trails in Nova Scotia.
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 Halifax, NS. August 2008. The Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association is very pleased to announce that it has joined the Nova Scotia Trails Federation. As a member of this respected organization, NSORRA joins other off-highway vehicle associations (such as ATVANS and SANS), community trail groups, and others with an interest in trail development, use and access. “Joining the Nova Scotia Trails Federation is an important component of our advocacy activities”, notes NSORRA President Paul Wamboldt. “NSTF is a highly respected organization and our affiliation with them will support our on-going efforts to enhance the image and riding opporunities of off road motorcycling in Nova Scotia.”
As a NS Trails Federation member, NSORRA will participate as a Board Member, and will have access to benefits such as third-party liability insurance for any trails developed by NSORRA. For more information on the Nova Scotia Trails Federation, visit their web site at www.novascotiatrails.com
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