PEMBROKE: The members and directors of Renfrew County ATV Club (RCATV) took a strong step forward to putting trails and riders first with the launch of their trails strategy for a safer, more accessible, easy to navigate trail system that will be digitally available and experiential focused. They also provided the board of directors with a mandate ensuring a diversely funded trail system that will be sustainable and connected to communities and tourism operators.
More than 70 annual and corporate members and families, riders, community members and ATV club and federation leaders joined the Board of RCATV for its Annual General Meeting, held at the Best Western Pembroke. Attendees also gave their voice and signatures to a petition and pledge for responsible riding and access to the full and continuous Ottawa Valley Recreation Trail (OVRT) for the recreational, tourism and economic benefit of all residents and businesses of municipalities, towns and cities along its route.
RCATV launched a new trail system of 750 km of heritage-named trails and 250 km of connecting routes. The trails strategy brings forward a progressive plan for new trail numbering and signing based on technicality ratings on both route markers and maps making. This will make it safer and easier to plan and navigate, for all levels of users from the newest and younger riders to the more experienced and adventurous trail user.
To achieve their 2018 vision of #RCATV Brings Value, members approved the board recommendation to change their affiliation to the Ontario Federation of ATV Clubs (OFATV) in the interest of rider benefits, strengthened provincial voice and sustainable trails. The mandate includes remaining closely connected with Kawartha ATV Association, Haliburton ATV Association and Eastern Ontario Trails Alliance clubs and to be a strong participant in the pursuit of a unified voice for Ontario ATV riders that will be value-added to riders and sustainable for clubs.
“The OFATV was very pleased to learn that Renfrew County ATV Club decided on March 24 to join the provincial federation,” said Mike Chicoine,vice-president, Ontario Federation of ATV Clubs. “RCATV brings with it a group of incredibly dedicated volunteers, an energy and desire to continually raise the bar for their club and a strong vision for the sport that will accomplish many great things. As a key component in connecting clubs along the full length of the Ottawa Valley Recreation Trail, stewards of a world class trail system and a dedication to provincial rider advocacy, RCATV are great ambassadors for the sport of recreational ATV riding and a welcome addition to the OFATV team.”
Carolyn Richards, president of the Kawartha ATV Club, said, “RCATV made well thought-out decisions today to meet the needs of their riders and community. It is their strong commitment to safety, responsible riding and their solid trails strategy that will bring value to all trail users, landowners and local citizens in a mixed rural and urban multi-use environment. KATVA plans to continue its partnership with RCATV and support their vision in any way possible. ” Carolyn Richards, President, Kawartha ATV Club.
“Congratulations on the excellent turnout and support for your AGM,” said Eric Mannetje, President, Huron Shores ATV Club. “I look forward to seeing our continued positive connections for sharing information and best practices. RCATV has come a long way in a short period of time. Once again, congrats to everyone involved and I look forward to a good partnership in this great sport.”
“There’s a new trail system coming to Renfrew County, including a new numbering system, technicality rating, GPS coordinates at key intersections, not to mention brushed trails with new signage. Follow them on Facebook and join them for a ride this season, you won’t be disappointed.” Barry Lord, President, Haliburton ATV Association.
“It was very clear from their AGM, that this club is a progressive and well run professional organization. Their decision to move their affiliation and become part of the much larger Ontario Federation of ATV Clubs (OFATV) showcased their commitment to furthering the sport in Ontario under a combined single voice and vision. Our club welcomes the opportunity to work much closer with RCATV on their solid trails strategy and shared support of the Ottawa Valley Recreation Trail linking our communities and trails. We both share the same Code of Ethics and ridership mantras that will continue to highlight our joint dedication to being responsible to the environment and private property owners, as well as providing safe family fun experiences as the sport continues to grow.” Avery Patterson, Treasurer, Ottawa Valley ATV Club
The RCATV Board of Directors wish to recognize the support of the Eastern Ontario Trails Alliance who have supported RCATV and their trails since 2007 and will continue to support their vision to develop, manage, maintain and market a comprehensive network of year-round shared use recreational trails.
Renfrew County ATV Club is an incorporated not-for-profit organization, comprised entirely of dedicated volunteers, whose vision is to be a premier ATV destination by enhancing the rider experience with the most extensive and scenic trail network in Ontario. Their focus is on enhancing safety and accessibility for all levels of rider and encouraging group, family and tour riding in partnership with local property owners, tourism operators and municipalities.
For information on how you can support RCATV in their goals, become a member or volunteer please contact Renfrew County ATV Club at [email protected] or visit them at www.renfrewcountyatv.ca www.facebook.com/RCATVclub.
