EDMONTON - A new Trail Care program will be launched in Fish Creek Provincial Park this fall by the Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park Society, in partnership with Alberta Community Development, and thanks to the generous support of the EcoAction Community Funding Program.

The Trail Care program is a volunteer initiative intended to reduce the impact that park users have had on the park environment through reclamation, rehabilitation and education.

There is a pressing need for the Trail Care program in Fish Creek Provincial Park as many visitors enjoy the opportunity to escape city life by exploring all corners of this beautiful protected area. Venturing off maintained trails is part of some popular recreational pursuits in the park, including hiking and mountain biking. This activity has led to the creation of a network of random dirt trails throughout the park. This off-trail use has had a negative impact on the landscape in the park including: increased erosion, loss of natural vegetation, invasion of non-native plant species, and destruction of habitat.

The new program is not intended to totally eliminate off-trail use, but rather to mitigate its effects by educating users about responsible off-trail use, protecting highly sensitive areas, and upgrading some trails in less sensitive areas. Trail Care aims to achieve a balance between environmental concerns and the recreational desires of people who use Fish Creek Provincial Park.

Groups interested in hands-on reclamation work in Fish Creek Provincial Park are encouraged to get involved. Park users can do their part to protect the park by following these simple tips:

* Stay on paved and shale pathways as much as possible.

* Do not create new trails.

* Avoid trails on steep slopes with visible soil loss, exposed roots, or muddy sections.

* Keep trails from getting wider by staying on the trail, not beside it.

* Join the Friends of Fish Creek or participate in the park's programs and services to learn more about the park, the trails, and its rich cultural and natural resources.

* Be mindful of other users, since all trails and pathways are designated for multi-use. Please be courteous.

For more information, contact the Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park Society, Kristen Dyer, (403) 238-3841 or email ffcppsoc@iul.net.

Contact:

Cheryl Robb
Communications
Alberta Community Development
(780) 427-6530

Kristin Dyer
Director of Volunteers
Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park Society
(403) 238-3841