Community Unity Trail Project Plan
There are more than 125,000 ATV and SxS riders in BC, with an additional 495,000 ATV/SxS’s estimated to be within a one day drive from the province.
Overview
Executing upon recently completed economic development strategies, the villages of Tahsis and Zeballos, in partnership with the Mowachaht/Muchalaht and Ehattesaht/Chinehkint First Nations, collaborated on a ‘Community Unity Trail’ connecting the two communities through a shared-use ATV trail. The working group undertook development of the business case required for the project, however additional technical fieldwork was required to secure the necessary regulatory approvals, and by extension, significant capital funding for the trail.
The project involved a complete environmental assessment of the forest and streams along the proposed trail, to ensure the environmental integrity of the adjacent habitat. The project also included engineering designs for stream crossings and other safety and sustainability improvements necessary to secure a recreation trail designation under the Forest and Range Practices Act.
As a result of this project, the Community Unity Trail was able to secure the necessary financing and regulatory approvals to proceed to formal trail development. Upon completion, the trail will support a range of benefits, from increased visitor spending and extended tourism season, to enhanced visitor opportunities around motorized recreation. The designation is currently under assessment with approval anticipated shortly.
Project Details
Project Impact
The Trust invests in projects using a Wellbeing Impact Framework that looks beyond traditional economic metrics. This approach evaluates how each investment strengthens economic prosperity, cultural vitality, climate resilience, and social empowerment. By focusing on outcomes that matter to people and place, the Trust works to spur new investments that create meaningful, lasting benefits across Vancouver Island and the coast.