The Stanley Trail Association has completed a project to enhance the cycling experience for those venturing out on the trails around Lake Minnewasta.
It's a gem
Stanley Trail Association board member James Friesen said this project was inspired by some really dedicated long-term board members and trail enthusiasts who leaned into this project.
"It is a real gem," he confirmed, adding, "but it's also a very narrow band of real estate around the lake to put a trail. We're very aware of that. So, we're taking careful care of it. Part of it is that there are perennially sections where there's a lot of moisture. So it gets rutted out. It's not the most pleasant to go through the mud."
Part of the trail is on a hill, and water runs down it, taking chunks of the hill with it.
"And it even comes out of the ground in some places," Friesen noted.
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Spring Trail Care grant from Trans Canada Trail Foundation
"Some of the trail users that we know who've had a long history with the Lake Trail know where those spots are. And so, we applied for and got a grant for about $1,200 to build boardwalks over those sections. So, that takes care of the earth and the trail part there. And it also makes the trail use a more pleasant experience."
He joked, "It's like this little extra nugget of something fun," when describing the sound it makes when the bike drives over one of the boardwalks.
Gratitude
He is grateful for those who have worked hard to make this project possible.
"We have volunteers. We have summer students as well who help with trail mowing. That makes all of this happen. And again, we appreciate any support from community members. We apply for grants to close the gap in funding. We are charitable, and so if you go to stanleytrailmanitoba.ca, you can donate online securely and you get a tax-deductible receipt."
The project was completed last week.
*With files from Connie Bailey