Conservation trail safety

There have already been several people rescued after falling into gorges in conservation areas in and around the city this year. And as summer approaches, the Hamilton Conservation Authority is reminding trail users of some very important safety tips.

The HCA is gearing up for more activity on its trails with the nicer weather now here. It oversees seven major conservation areas with over 140 kilometres of trails — and it wants to make sure both people and its areas are safe and secure.

As the weather warms up, activity on the city’s many trails is steadily increasing. And while it’s easy to get lost in nature’s beauty, Gord Costie of the Hamilton Conservation Authority is reminding trail users why it’s important to be mindful of their surroundings: “In the natural areas, such as escarpment parks here, they’re not fenced, they’re not signed, and really some of the best viewing features are right from the main trail systems and also from the formal lookout platforms and lookout points that are clearly identified in the lookout areas. That’s where we want to keep the people and that’s where we want to keep the traffic.”

There have been several gorge rescues already this year — and despite signs warning people to stay away from the water, there are those who don’t pay attention. Visitors have to be careful of falling debris, as well as slipping on wet rocks.

Staying on marked trails not only helps to ensure the safety of visitors, but it also helps to protect the sensitive nature and wildlife surrounding them.

Hiking through the city’s conservation areas brings visitors just steps away from numerous rare plants and animals. Straying from the designated paths could damage them: “The main concern is the trails are very sensitive to excessive foot traffic and people moving through the area, really dislodging the stable ground cover that the plants need to keep their roots in tact.”

So sticking to the trails means enjoying nature’s beauty, but still preserving it for everyone to enjoy, all year round.

There are other safety tips the Hamilton Conservation Authority is reminding the public of, especially with the warmer weather now here. When exploring trails, they recommend bringing water, as well as wearing long sleeved shirts to protect oneself from moquitoes and other bugs.