QUESNEL –The College of New Caledonia is launching a new Trails Design and Maintenance Program at its Quesnel campus on June 18, 2018.
This innovative program, which has a full cohort of 15 students and a waitlist, was developed to help the region design, build and sustain recreation trails.
“Students will gain a solid foundation in sustainable trail design, construction, and maintenance,” said Morgan Ross, Regional Principal of CNC’s Quesnel campus. “The program will include classroom instruction, technical training and fieldwork.”
CNC Quesnel developed the program with financial support from the Province of British Columbia through the BC Rural Dividend Program and with consultation from the Cariboo Regional District, the City of Quesnel and the Gold Rush Cycling Club.
Noted professional trail and bike park builder Justin Truelove will instruct the Trails Training component. Students will receive training in trail assessment, design, troubleshooting, sustainability, mapping, and safety.
The program also includes ATV Operator, GPS, Chainsaw, Wilderness First Aid and BC Wildfire courses. Students complete a two-week practicum placement and use their skills and knowledge to improve local trails.
“What a great opportunity for these students and an even better opportunity for Quesnel,” said Ian van Leusden, Trails Coordinator, City of Quesnel and Cariboo Regional District. “I’m grateful to be a part of this. The next couple of years are going to be very exciting for trails and trail development.”
This program supports initiatives to raise the Quesnel area’s profile as a preferred outdoor recreation destination for visitors and locals.
“We are pleased to contribute to the enrichment and expansion of the trail network in our area,” said Ross. “We hope this partnership leads to additional community development initiatives in the future.”