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New trails strategy means better recreation opportunities and healthier Ontarians

Trails system will help Ontarians enjoy nature and improve fitness

    TORONTO, Oct. 7 /CNW/ - Ontario's new trails strategy will encourage Ontarians to get out and get active on Ontario's trails, said Minister of Health Promotion Jim Watson.

    "In our fight against obesity, we need to raise awareness of the recreational opportunities provided by Ontario's trails," said Watson.

    "An extensive, well developed trail system will provide people with a chance to explore the beauty and diversity of our natural landscape while improving their health."

    The Ontario Trails Strategy is a critical component of the government's ACTIVE2010 plan to increase Ontario's physical activity rate so that by the year 2010, 55 per cent of Ontarians are physically active enough to benefit their health.

    The Ontario Trails Strategy identifies ways the Ontario government can work with its partners to develop, promote and extend Ontario's trail system.

    The government will contribute $3.5 million to implement the strategy which includes:

    -  Establishing a Coordinating Committee for Trails - involving key trails stakeholders and representative of all ministries with an

       interest in trails - to oversee the implementation of the strategy

    -  Developing a website to provide easy access to trail information

       for trail users

    -  Mapping the location of Ontario's trails for use by the province's

       trail organizations and the general public.

    The strategy is receiving praise from diverse trail groups across the

province.

    "The Ontario Trails Strategy will help lead Ontario trail development for

the next generation. We look forward to working with the Ministry of Health

Promotion to achieve the dynamic goals of developing, managing, conserving and using trails in the province," said Bev McCarthy, President, Ontario Trails Council.

    "By investing in our trails, we not only provide inexpensive ways for

people to become more active, we also attract more visitors to communities throughout the province, helping to strengthen local economies," said Watson.