The objective and responsibility of the RCATV Trail Patrol Program is to train and support a team of volunteers who can act in the interest of follow riders, the RCATV, OFATV and the landowner. It is our goal to achieve a safe and effective means to warden our trails, consistently and respectfully. This program has been put in place to address trail and rider safety; to provide a positive presence on the trail; and to ensure that riders using designated RCATV or OFATV trails have obtained and affixed a valid Trail Pass to their all-terrain vehicle.
Role of the Trail Patrol?
The Trail Patrol team comprises of volunteer trail warden’s from amongst RCATV members. Warden candidates go through a formal selection process, abide by a Code of Conduct and Confidentiality Agreement, are trained in partnership with law enforcement. The role of the trail wardens includes:
- provide positive presence on the trails
- sell trail passes on the trails
- enforce the Trespass to Property Act where required
- act as public relations officers and ambassadors
- NOT police officers on the trail
Why do we do SAFETY stops?
- Keep our riders safe
- Educate riders
- Reduced risk of rider safety infractions with OPP
- Increases permit sales by creating relationships with riders
- Compliance with our landowners
- Reduces the risk of trail closures
- Addresses issues in high-visibility or problematic areas
Why do we do PERMIT stops?
- Is run in conjunction with SAFETY stops where trail permits are part of the landowner Land Use Agreement or by-law
- Educate riders about permits and safety
- Enforces the permit requirement
- Reduces the risk of trail closures due to trespassing
- Addresses issues in high-visibility or problematic areas
Trail Warden Resources
- Trail Warden Report [web form]
- Trail Warden Report [google form]
- Trail Warden Application [word]
- Trail Warden Handbook [.pdf]
- Trail Warden Information Session [.pdf]