North Cowichan will take a close look at the ecological impacts of forest trails within the municipality.
Council made the decision after Coun. Christopher Justice put forward a motion at its meeting on May 17 calling for an assessment of the potential ecological risks and impacts of various trails and trail uses in North Cowichan.
As part of the study, the municipality will develop general criteria and guidance for recreation and trail planning and management in its forest areas; identify where trails and specific recreational uses are appropriate given ecological sensitivities; and identify needed mitigation to existing trails, if and where necessary.
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Justice said forest trails in North Cowichan, whether used for mountain biking, hiking, or horseback riding, can have both positive and negative impacts on natural ecosystems.
He said North Cowichan’s forest trails are a critical component of the quality of life of residents, and may also lead to enhanced natural-resource management and promote environmental preservation through raising awareness.
“However, the development and use of these trails may also negatively impact natural systems in several ways,” Justice said.
“They include fragmenting habitats and isolating wildlife populations; site degradation causing changes in drainage patterns and compacting of soils; and increasing the presence of humans and dogs which can alter the behaviour patterns of wild animals.”
Justice said ensuring sound trail planning, development and management policies requires a better understanding of the environmental and ecological impacts of trails, the affects of different types of recreational use, and where trails and specific forms of recreation use are, or are not, appropriate given ecological or cultural sensitivities.
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He said that in the recently completed forest-engagement process, the community voiced a strong desire to emphasize conservation, biodiversity and ecological services in the future management of municipal forests.
“At the same time, our forests are becoming increasingly popular; with growing numbers of people using the trails recreationally in a number of ways,” Justice said.
“Mountain biking in particular is drawing greater numbers to the trails and its evolving technology may expand the season of use, intensity of use, and ability to cover greater distances per use.”
