If you’ve been on the trails in West Bragg Creek recently, you may have noticed vandalism on some of our trail signs and maps. Stickers containing a message that challenge the authority of Bragg Creek Trails and encourage trail users to disregard trail signage dominates this inaccurate messaging and has defaced many of our signs.
Since 2009, BCT has had a Cooperating Agreement with the Alberta Government to co-manage the WBC trail system. This agreement is still in effect today.
The following selected responsibilities have been taken directly from the current Cooperating Agreement and were assigned to BCT by the Alberta Government:
- To enhance the trail user experience by grooming cross-country ski trails, tread-setting winter bike trails, maintaining a public trails centre, providing on-site trail hosting, education, signage, maps, public communication;
- To protect the environment by building properly designed trails, maintaining trails and water crossings as necessary, decommissioning unauthorized trails and educating the public about proper trail use and etiquette;
- To promote respect and preservation of the ecosystem and respect for fellow trail users and public land users.
BCT and the Alberta Government have had a long history of collaboration. A 2007 agreement to have BCT volunteers assist with ski trail grooming in WBC morphed into the development of a much needed trail plan which has set goals for trail development, maintenance and management.
BCT has been preparing to launch into a newly minted, Alberta Forestry and Parks approved, West Bragg Creek Trail Plan.
This plan sets lofty goals for BCT to achieve over the next decade and focuses more on developing trail management strategies and less on new trail construction.
The need for this updated plan comes from WBC developing into a highly popular recreation area for non-motorized sports. The population of the city of Calgary area is now over 1.6 million people and we have seen a corresponding steady increase in visitors to the WBC trails. Recent traffic counts indicate close to 300,000 visitors come out to WBC annually to enjoy the trails.
Without a management strategy to reduce the impacts of all these users on the trails, the environment, and on the various user groups, the WBC area would quickly become degraded and rife with conflict. Even though this is a multi-use trail system, it is apparent that separation of certain trail users from others provides a better user experience, for all. This is especially true in the winter season when BCT grooms both ski and Fat bike trails. This is also the season when we experience the most user conflict and trail damage.
Respect and appreciation for the work that BCT puts into maintaining these trails is the cornerstone for trail etiquette. Stewarding the trails takes money and hundreds of volunteer hours. Activities that damage the trails challenges the sustainability of BCT’s efforts to provide a safe and enjoyable trail experience, for all.
The approved Alberta government signage and maps are there to provide information and direction. Trail hosts, when present, are also a great resource to making your experience a great one.
For further trail etiquette and wayfinding information, BCT’s website is a treasure trove. BCT also offers many opportunities to get involved as a volunteer. Please visit us at braggcreektrails.org.
Please take time to thank a trail volunteer next time you’re out. WBC wouldn’t be what it is without them.
See you on the trails
Conrad Schiebel (BCT President)
