Bulletin: There appears to be some movement on the long-awaited Draft Official Community Plan. A Council and Administration Roundtable meeting will be held on Thursday, February 18. The subject will be the Official Community Plan Schedule. You will be able to view the presentation shortly after its completion. Go to https://www.whitehorse.ca/city-council/council-and-senior-management-casm-meetings. Hopefully, we will be given an update as to how close we are to seeing a draft plan being issued for public review.
Below you will find ATWA's Dec. 14, 2018 written submission to the City outlining the specific issues that we would like to see addressed in the new plan. This would be a good time to review that submission.
Official Community Plan stakeholder meeting submission
To: Madison Guthrie Planning and Sustainability Intern
Planning & Sustainability Services
From: Active Trails Whitehorse Association (ATWA)
Date: December 14, 2018
For the purpose of the Official Community Plan (OCP) review, Active Trails Whitehorse Association (ATWA) will focus on environmental and recreational considerations.
Purpose of an OCP (p. 6)
“Once an OCP is adopted by a bylaw, all future land use decisions made by Council must be consistent with the objectives and policies outlined in the Plan.” (OCP p. 6)
Too often we find that this is not the case with regard to our (ATWA) interests. It is our feeling that the City too often ignores the contents of the OCP when in comes to issues related to both recreation and the environment. (Examples will be provided later in this document.)
3.1 Vision (p. 7)
It is suggested that the Vision statement be rewritten as follows:
Vision Statement: Whitehorse will be a well-planned self-sustaining community, and a leader in energy conservation and innovation, that works to promote the maintenance and conservation of its green spaces for future generations. Whitehorse will continue to strive for a better quality of life that is reflected in its ethnic diversity, expanding economy, thriving social life and, by designing a community that supports active forms of recreation and transportation, will generate a more healthy population.
3.2 Values (p. 7)
1. Whitehorse Residents Value the Natural Beauty and the Closeness to Nature
In the Vision statement (see above) we have replaced the term wilderness spaces with green spaces, and that is because our citizens do not live in the wilderness, but are surrounded by wilderness.
“Our residents value the nearby access to the wilderness.” In light of what we have just said, what is the actual meaning of this sentence? Do residents value “access to the [surrounding] wilderness”, or do they value access to the green spaces within our City’s boundaries? As we are reviewing an OCP for the City and not for the latter’s surrounding wilderness, we feel the sentence should be rewritten as follows: “Our residents value access to the City’s green spaces.”
This section makes the claim that the City values its green spaces and trails, as well as its clean air and water. However, this is not reflected in one of the City’s bylaws (i.e. Snowmobile Bylaw). Currently, unlike ATVs, snow machines are allowed access to greenbelts, open spaces, and non-motorized trails.
The City acknowledges snow machines can damage vegetation as the Snowmobile Bylaw says that snowmobile operators are not to “damage any vegetation or ground.”
The failure to address this issue results in negative impacts on our (so-called) non-motorized trails, discourages active transportation and recreation, and leads to obvious air and water concerns. It also undermines the public’s confidence that Council decisions will be “consistent with the objectives and policies outlined in the Plan.”
6. Implementing the Vision (p. 19)
It is claimed that 65% of land within the City is reserved for green space. Yet the City fails to protect that same green space from motorized ORV use. Until the Snowmobile Bylaw is amended to mirror that of the ATV Bylaw, green spaces will not be afforded the protection they deserve.
We also believe that the City is building too many new trails. We should think as much about decommissioning trails as we do about creating new trails that really only satisfy the interests of City trail stewards, such as the Klondike Snowmobile Association and the Contagious Mountain Bike Club.
Once again the OCP suggest that we “preserve pristine wilderness areas” within our city. Perhaps this should be changed to “preserve green spaces,” as the claim cannot be made that we have “pristine wilderness areas” within our city.
This section suggests that the City “support[s] active transportation. Yet every trail plan in the City supports the opposite. Few, if any non-motorized trails (summer and winter) are designated in the respective City of Whitehorse trail plans, even though public surveys (and the OCP) indicate the desire to separate motorized from non-motorized use.
One only needs to look at what happened with regard to the Whistle Bend Perimeter Trail and the Casca Blvd. paved trails to realize that the City often says one thing, and then does another when it comes to the promotion of active transportation and active recreation.
The Pine Street extension paved gas tax funded trail is another example of the City’s lack of support for active transportation trails. It is now motorized, despite numerous City assurances that it would be non-motorized (summer and winter).
6.5 New Residential Development Areas (p. 23)
We would like to see Porter Creek “D” (Extension) concept permanently dropped, and the area included in the proposed McIntyre Creek Regional Park. The area is too close to a major wildlife corridor to allow development. The Guiding Principles of the OCP reflect the need to protect the “natural environment” in which we live, and recognize its importance “for quality of life.” In addition, the OCP says, “Decisions on development, land use, infrastructure, energy and transportation shall be integrated to minimize our ecological footprint.” (OCP p. 10)
6.8 Future Studies, Regulations and Bylaws (p. 26)
According to #2 in this section the OCP was to be monitored on a regular basis “to gauge the success of the Official Community Plan.” We would like to know if this current review is seen as fulfilling that obligation. We would suggest that the public have an opportunity to query the success of the OCP at least once every five years. This could take the shape of a public forum, where citizens, members of administration, and members of Council gather to discuss the OCP.
Again, according to this section, the 2010 OCP proposed that the City “conduct a review of all City bylaws to determine consistency with the Official Community Plan.” ATWA would like to know if this has been done. Certainly our efforts to change the Snowmobile Bylaw to reflect certain aspects of the OCP have proven fruitless.
When the OCP review is completed and approved, ATWA would like to see an immediate review of our bylaws to ensure they do reflect the desires of the public as expressed in the OCP.
According to this section the 2010 OCP called for the creation of an Active Transportation Map that would encompass both trails and routes “for the urban area of the City.” There is no such map listed under Maps on the City’s website. We can find a commuter cycling map, but that is all. Map 3 of the 2010 OCP does contain a map, which features the then existing active transportation roads and paved trails in the downtown core.
ATWA would like to see a map of all the truly non-motorized (summer and winter) designated trails and asphalt paths available to citizens in the City of Whitehorse. Please note that there is a 2015 Motorized Multi-Use Trail Map available to the public under Maps on the City’s website.
At present, due to the Snowmobile Bylaw, most so-called non-motorized multi-use trails are actually motorized trails. In this community no does not mean no when it comes to our trail system.
If, as a City, we are truly trying to encourage active forms of transportation and recreation, we must do as the OCP currently advises when it says, “Where feasible, consideration shall be made to separate multi-use trails (which accommodate motorized and non-motorized recreation) from non-motorized trails.” (18.5.1 p. 74)
Protect and Use Green Spaces (p. 31)
1.1.1. The OCP says, “Proposed development or activities that may impact the ecology of [environmentally sensitive areas] shall be examined through comprehensive planning processes.” The OCP should clarify what is meant by “comprehensive planning processes.”
1.1.4.The OCP says, “Where [trail] routes have the potential to impact wetlands, appropriate mitigative measures shall be followed.” To mitigate means to make less severe. One could easily mitigate an area to death.
It is our feeling that the OCP should insist that the public be made aware of how the wetland area under discussion could be impacted by a proposed trail, and how the City intends to mitigate those impacts.
We also think it appropriate that citizens be given assurance that qualified people are employed to determine if impact concerns can be mitigated, and if so, how they can be mitigated.
ATWA proposes the creation of a COW Environmental Advisory Review Committee - A committee comprised of local environmental specialists that reviews Zoning Applications, Trail Designations, Development Initiatives and In-Filling, with the objective of providing information to City Administration (and Council) that will maintain the protection of ESAs and riparian areas using the OCP as a guiding document.
Snowmobiles and ATVs are supposed to stay out of environmentally sensitive areas unless there is an existing designated motorized trail. This should be made clear in the OCP. In addition, the OCP should clearly state that the City should not be creating new motorized routes through such areas. The City should also ensure that an easily readable map of ESAs be made available on the City’s website to which both operators of ATVs and snowmobiles could refer.
Today our City’s green space trails are built not out of necessity, but out of desire to satisfy our recreational pursuits. The world is not going to end because a trail is not approved for construction.
1.3 Riparian, Wetland and Wildlife Areas (p. 33)
1.3.1.This section tells us that there is supposed to be a “30-metre riparian setback along both sides of all rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands, year-round or seasonal, [which] shall be protected from development and remain in a natural condition.” It implies that the only type of trail permitted within this 30-metre setback is a non-motorized trail.
This 30-metre riparian setback should remain. However, we would like the OCP to clarify what it means when it says that only non-motorized trails are permitted within this setback. In other words, are these non-motorized trails non-motorized summer and winter, or just in summer?
Objective 12: Improve Transportation (p. 61)
12.1 Active Transportation (p. 61)
The relationship between active transportation and active recreation should be emphasized. The same trails that we use for transportation may also be used for recreation. (Example: gas tax funded asphalt trails) In addition, while transporting yourself you are also likely to be enjoying the active recreation involved.
This section indicates the City wants to “provide a safe and enjoyable experience” for those using active forms of transportation. If active transportation trails are to be safe for such people, then they should be free of motorized use summer and winter.
Gas tax funded paved trails in the City of Whitehorse are promoted as commuter trails for those using active forms of transportation, although they can be used for motorized activities as long as non-motorized uses are included. It is the responsibility of the City of Whitehorse to manage these trails and to decide (hopefully with public input) whether or not motorized use will be permitted. (Please note that not all asphalt-paved trails in the City are gas tax funded.)
To our knowledge all federal, territorial and municipal government comments, and all local newspaper articles with regard to Whitehorse gas tax funded paved trails, have indicated that these trails are to be used only for active forms of transportation.
Yet, little effort is made to designate and sign these trails as non-motorized summer and winter. If we want people to use active transportation trails, then we must ensure that said trails are free from motorized use the entire year. Motorized use of trails can lead to the displacement of non-motorized users, who are looking for a different experience.
12.1.2(p. 62) As mentioned before, we are not able to find any Active Transportation Map under Maps on the City’s website. We believe that not only do we need an Active Transportation Map for the City, but also an Active Recreation Map that would include all the truly non-motorized (summer and winter) designated trails and asphalt paths available to citizens in the City of Whitehorse.
Objective 18: Promote Active Living (p. 71)
We would suggest changing the term Active Living to Active Recreation as that is what makes up the major discussion points in this section.
18.1.1 (p. 71) As mentioned previously ATWA would like to see the City prepare a management plan for the McIntyre Creek regional park. The park should include the area usually referred to as Porter Creek “D.” If the City is not prepared to do this then there may be another option: a territorial park.
As well, we would like to see steps taken to ensure that the three other proposed parks are given formal regional park status. Wolf Creek Regional Park should be next in line for park status following that of McIntyre Creek.
18.2 Trail Development (p. 71)
This section states, “designating trails for specific uses . . . aids in the safety of trail users.” Yet, every time ATWA has suggested that for certain trails in the City this should be done, our input has been rejected.
For example, certain types of mountain bike trails should be designated single-use trails. A trail developed specifically for downhill riding and speed should be closed to other uses, to reduce safety concerns.
“Downhill riding is all about rhythm and flow. As they descend the trail, downhillers go as fast as possible by finding the best lines and riding smoothly. Advanced riders tend to ride faster lines - those that require a higher level of strength, agility, and reaction.
A downhill trail should be technical, with features and lines that challenge riders of all abilities.” (See https://www.imbacanada.com/resources/freeriding/building-dh-trails).
Similarly, dirt bike trails should be built as specific-purpose trails and off-limits to all other users.
If organizations are willing to develop and maintain such trails, and go through the trail development process, then single purpose trails should be an option. Obviously, the City would have to be cautious as to how many such trails are built, but the City should recognize that the OCP allows for the designation of specific-purpose trails.
As well, there needs to be recognition that when an organization builds a trail, it is building it first for the recreational use of that organization. The trail may be open to other users, but it is not necessarily built to accommodate the needs of those other users.
A mountain bike trail may not be the best type of trail for a runner or a walker or a skier. The latter have different needs to those of mountain bikers. This may necessitate the designation of at least some City trails (already in existence) as specific use trails for the under-represented recreational groups in our community, walkers being one such group.
18.2.2 (p. 72)
There is no mention in this section about the decommissioning of trails. We already have too many trails within our City’s boundaries. It is impossible to maintain them all. It is also our impression that there has been a proliferation of trails in the last five years perhaps due to the popularity of mountain biking.
Many existing trails are unnecessary and should be closed and if possible returned to their original green space state. In fact, if trail builders were required to decommission two trails (of similar length) for every one that they built, we might have a better chance of maintaining our green spaces.
There is a tendency to forget the impact that trail building can have on other users of trails in the immediate area, and on vegetation, bird life, and animal life. We can easily end up “trailing” an area to death.
18.3.5 (p. 73)
This section mentions the Porter Creek area as one that contains trails “that contribute to active living (recreation) and active transportation.” Yet it fails to mention the fact that almost all (if not all) trails in the area are open to motorized use. The negative impacts of this fact were readily expressed in the 2016 Porter Creek/Range Point/Whistle Bend/Takhini Trail Planning Process – Feedback, an on-site study done by the Yukon Conservation Society (YCS) in partnership with the Friends of McIntyre Creek (FOMC) and the Porter Creek Community Association (PCCA). See http://yukonconservation.org/docs/2016_Porter_Creek_Range_Point_Whistle_Bend_Takhini_Trail_Plan_Survey_-_feedback.pdf.
If the City wishes to promote active transportation and active recreation, and better protect its green spaces, then it needs to change bylaws to help it achieve these goals. As mentioned previously, the Snowmobile Bylaw is one such bylaw that needs to be amended to reflect such goals.
18.5 Motorized Recreation (p. 74)
This section promotes the idea of out and away trails. “These trails would be designated for motorized use, allowing those residents routes to get away from the local green space and into the larger hinterland, where they will not be a nuisance to non-motorized users.”
If this is the case, why does the City permit snowmobile operators to use their machines on so-called non-motorized trails, greenbelts, and open spaces within our community? Take a look at our approved City trail plans and see how many trails are actually designated non-motorized (summer and winter). It seems we have gone far beyond simply providing out and away trails for motorized trail users. The now very much out-dated 2015 MMU City Trail Map verifies the previous statement. (See https://www.whitehorse.ca/home/showdocument?id=4210).
The Klondike Snowmobile Association sent out a Candidates Survey for the recent municipal elections. Candidates were asked, “to indicate whether they agree or disagree with four statements that reflect the concerns of our membership.” One of the statements reads as follows: I will work to maintain or increase the inventory of trails and areas open to motorized recreation within city limits. (See https://ksa.yk.ca/news/).
The OCP indicates that we should be trying to provide routes/trails to get ATVs and snow machines out of town. The KSA wants to increase “the inventory and areas open to motorized recreation within city limits.”
Unfortunately, as previously mentioned, due to the Snowmobile Bylaw the vast majority of so-called non-motorized trails are open to motorized use in the winter.
It should be noted that in order to designate a truly non-motorized trail (summer and winter) one has to amend the Snowmobile Bylaw. Imagine, after looking at the MMU map, how much time and energy city officials would waste if every time a motorized trail was designated, a Walking Bylaw would have to be amended.
Considering the fact that there is already a huge complex of motorized trails within our City as evidenced by the out-of-date, 2015 Motorized Multi-Use Trail Map, and the fact that snowmobile operators can use greenbelts, open spaces, and most so-called non-motorized trails within our community, the KSA’s demand for even more access to such areas borders on the absurd.
The OCP should address this most confusing, frustrating, potentially expensive, and rather ridiculous situation by recommending that the Snowmobile Bylaw be amended to ensure that non-motorized trails, greenbelts, and open spaces be protected from snow machine use.
18.5.1 (p. 74)
This section makes the following comment: “Where feasible, consideration shall be made to separate multi-use trails (which accommodate motorized and non-motorized recreation) from non-motorized trails. Future multi-use trail development shall avoid environmentally sensitive areas wherever possible.”
There are three points in the above statement that we would like to emphasize.
18.5.2 (p. 74)
This section makes the following comment: “The Trail Plan recommends the creation of a map of "out and away" trails for motorized recreation vehicle usage. This map shall be designed to strongly discourage the use of all terrain vehicles on non-motorized trails and in environmentally sensitive areas. The map would be accompanied with physical upgrades such as signage. Work on this project shall be done in conjunction with groups such as the Klondike Snowmobile Association, Motor Vehicles Branch, and others.”
Where can one find this map? As far as we can tell it does not exist. If the City’s website had such a map, off-road-vehicle (ORV) operators would know what routes are considered to be out and away trails, and could better avoid so-called non-motorized trails on their way out of town.
(Another way we can “discourage the use of all terrain vehicles (snowmobiles) on non-motorized trails” by simply changing the Snowmobile Bylaw as previously suggested.)
Is there any existing signage that indicates a trail is an out and away trail?
Was any work done by the “Klondike Snowmobile Association, Motor Vehicles Branch, and others” on this project?
Glossary
ATWA would also like to see the following terms defined in the Glossarysection of the revised OCP document:
Multi-use trail:One that accommodates both motorized and non-motorizedrecreational or transportation uses. (OCP 18.5.1) (Hamilton Blvd paved trail is correctly signed as a Multi-use trail.) Having said this, it may be better to use the term Mixed-Use trail rather that Multi-Use trail, to represent this type of trail, as do other jurisdictions.
Motorized Multiple Use Trails - includes only those trails formally designed and designated by the City of Whitehorse to allow the use of motorized vehicles, including 4-wheel drive vehicles, motorcycles, all terrain vehicles (ATVs) and snowmobiles. (2007 Trail Plan p. 25) Please note that there is no mention that such trails would include non-motorized users.
Non-motorized Multiple Use Trails - designated non-motorized trails and all others by default – officially (but not in practice) includes all trails not officially designated by the City of Whitehorse to allow use of motorized vehicles. (2007 Trail Plan p. 25) Please note that there is no mention that such trails would include motorized users.
(In our view, administration continues to misuse the definitions of trail types as stated in the 2007 Trail Plan, which leads to much confusion.)
Thank you for allowing us to meet with you to discuss the above.
Pat Milligan and Keith Lay (Active Trails Whitehorse Association)
activetwa@gmail.com
www.activetwa.org
Below you will find ATWA's Dec. 14, 2018 written submission to the City outlining the specific issues that we would like to see addressed in the new plan. This would be a good time to review that submission.
Official Community Plan stakeholder meeting submission
To: Madison Guthrie Planning and Sustainability Intern
Planning & Sustainability Services
From: Active Trails Whitehorse Association (ATWA)
Date: December 14, 2018
For the purpose of the Official Community Plan (OCP) review, Active Trails Whitehorse Association (ATWA) will focus on environmental and recreational considerations.
Purpose of an OCP (p. 6)
“Once an OCP is adopted by a bylaw, all future land use decisions made by Council must be consistent with the objectives and policies outlined in the Plan.” (OCP p. 6)
Too often we find that this is not the case with regard to our (ATWA) interests. It is our feeling that the City too often ignores the contents of the OCP when in comes to issues related to both recreation and the environment. (Examples will be provided later in this document.)
3.1 Vision (p. 7)
It is suggested that the Vision statement be rewritten as follows:
Vision Statement: Whitehorse will be a well-planned self-sustaining community, and a leader in energy conservation and innovation, that works to promote the maintenance and conservation of its green spaces for future generations. Whitehorse will continue to strive for a better quality of life that is reflected in its ethnic diversity, expanding economy, thriving social life and, by designing a community that supports active forms of recreation and transportation, will generate a more healthy population.
3.2 Values (p. 7)
1. Whitehorse Residents Value the Natural Beauty and the Closeness to Nature
In the Vision statement (see above) we have replaced the term wilderness spaces with green spaces, and that is because our citizens do not live in the wilderness, but are surrounded by wilderness.
“Our residents value the nearby access to the wilderness.” In light of what we have just said, what is the actual meaning of this sentence? Do residents value “access to the [surrounding] wilderness”, or do they value access to the green spaces within our City’s boundaries? As we are reviewing an OCP for the City and not for the latter’s surrounding wilderness, we feel the sentence should be rewritten as follows: “Our residents value access to the City’s green spaces.”
This section makes the claim that the City values its green spaces and trails, as well as its clean air and water. However, this is not reflected in one of the City’s bylaws (i.e. Snowmobile Bylaw). Currently, unlike ATVs, snow machines are allowed access to greenbelts, open spaces, and non-motorized trails.
The City acknowledges snow machines can damage vegetation as the Snowmobile Bylaw says that snowmobile operators are not to “damage any vegetation or ground.”
The failure to address this issue results in negative impacts on our (so-called) non-motorized trails, discourages active transportation and recreation, and leads to obvious air and water concerns. It also undermines the public’s confidence that Council decisions will be “consistent with the objectives and policies outlined in the Plan.”
6. Implementing the Vision (p. 19)
It is claimed that 65% of land within the City is reserved for green space. Yet the City fails to protect that same green space from motorized ORV use. Until the Snowmobile Bylaw is amended to mirror that of the ATV Bylaw, green spaces will not be afforded the protection they deserve.
We also believe that the City is building too many new trails. We should think as much about decommissioning trails as we do about creating new trails that really only satisfy the interests of City trail stewards, such as the Klondike Snowmobile Association and the Contagious Mountain Bike Club.
Once again the OCP suggest that we “preserve pristine wilderness areas” within our city. Perhaps this should be changed to “preserve green spaces,” as the claim cannot be made that we have “pristine wilderness areas” within our city.
This section suggests that the City “support[s] active transportation. Yet every trail plan in the City supports the opposite. Few, if any non-motorized trails (summer and winter) are designated in the respective City of Whitehorse trail plans, even though public surveys (and the OCP) indicate the desire to separate motorized from non-motorized use.
One only needs to look at what happened with regard to the Whistle Bend Perimeter Trail and the Casca Blvd. paved trails to realize that the City often says one thing, and then does another when it comes to the promotion of active transportation and active recreation.
The Pine Street extension paved gas tax funded trail is another example of the City’s lack of support for active transportation trails. It is now motorized, despite numerous City assurances that it would be non-motorized (summer and winter).
6.5 New Residential Development Areas (p. 23)
We would like to see Porter Creek “D” (Extension) concept permanently dropped, and the area included in the proposed McIntyre Creek Regional Park. The area is too close to a major wildlife corridor to allow development. The Guiding Principles of the OCP reflect the need to protect the “natural environment” in which we live, and recognize its importance “for quality of life.” In addition, the OCP says, “Decisions on development, land use, infrastructure, energy and transportation shall be integrated to minimize our ecological footprint.” (OCP p. 10)
6.8 Future Studies, Regulations and Bylaws (p. 26)
According to #2 in this section the OCP was to be monitored on a regular basis “to gauge the success of the Official Community Plan.” We would like to know if this current review is seen as fulfilling that obligation. We would suggest that the public have an opportunity to query the success of the OCP at least once every five years. This could take the shape of a public forum, where citizens, members of administration, and members of Council gather to discuss the OCP.
Again, according to this section, the 2010 OCP proposed that the City “conduct a review of all City bylaws to determine consistency with the Official Community Plan.” ATWA would like to know if this has been done. Certainly our efforts to change the Snowmobile Bylaw to reflect certain aspects of the OCP have proven fruitless.
When the OCP review is completed and approved, ATWA would like to see an immediate review of our bylaws to ensure they do reflect the desires of the public as expressed in the OCP.
According to this section the 2010 OCP called for the creation of an Active Transportation Map that would encompass both trails and routes “for the urban area of the City.” There is no such map listed under Maps on the City’s website. We can find a commuter cycling map, but that is all. Map 3 of the 2010 OCP does contain a map, which features the then existing active transportation roads and paved trails in the downtown core.
ATWA would like to see a map of all the truly non-motorized (summer and winter) designated trails and asphalt paths available to citizens in the City of Whitehorse. Please note that there is a 2015 Motorized Multi-Use Trail Map available to the public under Maps on the City’s website.
At present, due to the Snowmobile Bylaw, most so-called non-motorized multi-use trails are actually motorized trails. In this community no does not mean no when it comes to our trail system.
If, as a City, we are truly trying to encourage active forms of transportation and recreation, we must do as the OCP currently advises when it says, “Where feasible, consideration shall be made to separate multi-use trails (which accommodate motorized and non-motorized recreation) from non-motorized trails.” (18.5.1 p. 74)
Protect and Use Green Spaces (p. 31)
1.1.1. The OCP says, “Proposed development or activities that may impact the ecology of [environmentally sensitive areas] shall be examined through comprehensive planning processes.” The OCP should clarify what is meant by “comprehensive planning processes.”
1.1.4.The OCP says, “Where [trail] routes have the potential to impact wetlands, appropriate mitigative measures shall be followed.” To mitigate means to make less severe. One could easily mitigate an area to death.
It is our feeling that the OCP should insist that the public be made aware of how the wetland area under discussion could be impacted by a proposed trail, and how the City intends to mitigate those impacts.
We also think it appropriate that citizens be given assurance that qualified people are employed to determine if impact concerns can be mitigated, and if so, how they can be mitigated.
ATWA proposes the creation of a COW Environmental Advisory Review Committee - A committee comprised of local environmental specialists that reviews Zoning Applications, Trail Designations, Development Initiatives and In-Filling, with the objective of providing information to City Administration (and Council) that will maintain the protection of ESAs and riparian areas using the OCP as a guiding document.
Snowmobiles and ATVs are supposed to stay out of environmentally sensitive areas unless there is an existing designated motorized trail. This should be made clear in the OCP. In addition, the OCP should clearly state that the City should not be creating new motorized routes through such areas. The City should also ensure that an easily readable map of ESAs be made available on the City’s website to which both operators of ATVs and snowmobiles could refer.
Today our City’s green space trails are built not out of necessity, but out of desire to satisfy our recreational pursuits. The world is not going to end because a trail is not approved for construction.
1.3 Riparian, Wetland and Wildlife Areas (p. 33)
1.3.1.This section tells us that there is supposed to be a “30-metre riparian setback along both sides of all rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands, year-round or seasonal, [which] shall be protected from development and remain in a natural condition.” It implies that the only type of trail permitted within this 30-metre setback is a non-motorized trail.
This 30-metre riparian setback should remain. However, we would like the OCP to clarify what it means when it says that only non-motorized trails are permitted within this setback. In other words, are these non-motorized trails non-motorized summer and winter, or just in summer?
Objective 12: Improve Transportation (p. 61)
12.1 Active Transportation (p. 61)
The relationship between active transportation and active recreation should be emphasized. The same trails that we use for transportation may also be used for recreation. (Example: gas tax funded asphalt trails) In addition, while transporting yourself you are also likely to be enjoying the active recreation involved.
This section indicates the City wants to “provide a safe and enjoyable experience” for those using active forms of transportation. If active transportation trails are to be safe for such people, then they should be free of motorized use summer and winter.
Gas tax funded paved trails in the City of Whitehorse are promoted as commuter trails for those using active forms of transportation, although they can be used for motorized activities as long as non-motorized uses are included. It is the responsibility of the City of Whitehorse to manage these trails and to decide (hopefully with public input) whether or not motorized use will be permitted. (Please note that not all asphalt-paved trails in the City are gas tax funded.)
To our knowledge all federal, territorial and municipal government comments, and all local newspaper articles with regard to Whitehorse gas tax funded paved trails, have indicated that these trails are to be used only for active forms of transportation.
Yet, little effort is made to designate and sign these trails as non-motorized summer and winter. If we want people to use active transportation trails, then we must ensure that said trails are free from motorized use the entire year. Motorized use of trails can lead to the displacement of non-motorized users, who are looking for a different experience.
12.1.2(p. 62) As mentioned before, we are not able to find any Active Transportation Map under Maps on the City’s website. We believe that not only do we need an Active Transportation Map for the City, but also an Active Recreation Map that would include all the truly non-motorized (summer and winter) designated trails and asphalt paths available to citizens in the City of Whitehorse.
Objective 18: Promote Active Living (p. 71)
We would suggest changing the term Active Living to Active Recreation as that is what makes up the major discussion points in this section.
18.1.1 (p. 71) As mentioned previously ATWA would like to see the City prepare a management plan for the McIntyre Creek regional park. The park should include the area usually referred to as Porter Creek “D.” If the City is not prepared to do this then there may be another option: a territorial park.
As well, we would like to see steps taken to ensure that the three other proposed parks are given formal regional park status. Wolf Creek Regional Park should be next in line for park status following that of McIntyre Creek.
18.2 Trail Development (p. 71)
This section states, “designating trails for specific uses . . . aids in the safety of trail users.” Yet, every time ATWA has suggested that for certain trails in the City this should be done, our input has been rejected.
For example, certain types of mountain bike trails should be designated single-use trails. A trail developed specifically for downhill riding and speed should be closed to other uses, to reduce safety concerns.
“Downhill riding is all about rhythm and flow. As they descend the trail, downhillers go as fast as possible by finding the best lines and riding smoothly. Advanced riders tend to ride faster lines - those that require a higher level of strength, agility, and reaction.
A downhill trail should be technical, with features and lines that challenge riders of all abilities.” (See https://www.imbacanada.com/resources/freeriding/building-dh-trails).
Similarly, dirt bike trails should be built as specific-purpose trails and off-limits to all other users.
If organizations are willing to develop and maintain such trails, and go through the trail development process, then single purpose trails should be an option. Obviously, the City would have to be cautious as to how many such trails are built, but the City should recognize that the OCP allows for the designation of specific-purpose trails.
As well, there needs to be recognition that when an organization builds a trail, it is building it first for the recreational use of that organization. The trail may be open to other users, but it is not necessarily built to accommodate the needs of those other users.
A mountain bike trail may not be the best type of trail for a runner or a walker or a skier. The latter have different needs to those of mountain bikers. This may necessitate the designation of at least some City trails (already in existence) as specific use trails for the under-represented recreational groups in our community, walkers being one such group.
18.2.2 (p. 72)
There is no mention in this section about the decommissioning of trails. We already have too many trails within our City’s boundaries. It is impossible to maintain them all. It is also our impression that there has been a proliferation of trails in the last five years perhaps due to the popularity of mountain biking.
Many existing trails are unnecessary and should be closed and if possible returned to their original green space state. In fact, if trail builders were required to decommission two trails (of similar length) for every one that they built, we might have a better chance of maintaining our green spaces.
There is a tendency to forget the impact that trail building can have on other users of trails in the immediate area, and on vegetation, bird life, and animal life. We can easily end up “trailing” an area to death.
18.3.5 (p. 73)
This section mentions the Porter Creek area as one that contains trails “that contribute to active living (recreation) and active transportation.” Yet it fails to mention the fact that almost all (if not all) trails in the area are open to motorized use. The negative impacts of this fact were readily expressed in the 2016 Porter Creek/Range Point/Whistle Bend/Takhini Trail Planning Process – Feedback, an on-site study done by the Yukon Conservation Society (YCS) in partnership with the Friends of McIntyre Creek (FOMC) and the Porter Creek Community Association (PCCA). See http://yukonconservation.org/docs/2016_Porter_Creek_Range_Point_Whistle_Bend_Takhini_Trail_Plan_Survey_-_feedback.pdf.
If the City wishes to promote active transportation and active recreation, and better protect its green spaces, then it needs to change bylaws to help it achieve these goals. As mentioned previously, the Snowmobile Bylaw is one such bylaw that needs to be amended to reflect such goals.
18.5 Motorized Recreation (p. 74)
This section promotes the idea of out and away trails. “These trails would be designated for motorized use, allowing those residents routes to get away from the local green space and into the larger hinterland, where they will not be a nuisance to non-motorized users.”
If this is the case, why does the City permit snowmobile operators to use their machines on so-called non-motorized trails, greenbelts, and open spaces within our community? Take a look at our approved City trail plans and see how many trails are actually designated non-motorized (summer and winter). It seems we have gone far beyond simply providing out and away trails for motorized trail users. The now very much out-dated 2015 MMU City Trail Map verifies the previous statement. (See https://www.whitehorse.ca/home/showdocument?id=4210).
The Klondike Snowmobile Association sent out a Candidates Survey for the recent municipal elections. Candidates were asked, “to indicate whether they agree or disagree with four statements that reflect the concerns of our membership.” One of the statements reads as follows: I will work to maintain or increase the inventory of trails and areas open to motorized recreation within city limits. (See https://ksa.yk.ca/news/).
The OCP indicates that we should be trying to provide routes/trails to get ATVs and snow machines out of town. The KSA wants to increase “the inventory and areas open to motorized recreation within city limits.”
Unfortunately, as previously mentioned, due to the Snowmobile Bylaw the vast majority of so-called non-motorized trails are open to motorized use in the winter.
It should be noted that in order to designate a truly non-motorized trail (summer and winter) one has to amend the Snowmobile Bylaw. Imagine, after looking at the MMU map, how much time and energy city officials would waste if every time a motorized trail was designated, a Walking Bylaw would have to be amended.
Considering the fact that there is already a huge complex of motorized trails within our City as evidenced by the out-of-date, 2015 Motorized Multi-Use Trail Map, and the fact that snowmobile operators can use greenbelts, open spaces, and most so-called non-motorized trails within our community, the KSA’s demand for even more access to such areas borders on the absurd.
The OCP should address this most confusing, frustrating, potentially expensive, and rather ridiculous situation by recommending that the Snowmobile Bylaw be amended to ensure that non-motorized trails, greenbelts, and open spaces be protected from snow machine use.
18.5.1 (p. 74)
This section makes the following comment: “Where feasible, consideration shall be made to separate multi-use trails (which accommodate motorized and non-motorized recreation) from non-motorized trails. Future multi-use trail development shall avoid environmentally sensitive areas wherever possible.”
There are three points in the above statement that we would like to emphasize.
- Separate motorized and non-motorized recreation
- Multi-use trails are defined as those that accommodate both motorized and non-motorized recreation
- Multi-use trail development shall avoid environmentally sensitive areas wherever possible
18.5.2 (p. 74)
This section makes the following comment: “The Trail Plan recommends the creation of a map of "out and away" trails for motorized recreation vehicle usage. This map shall be designed to strongly discourage the use of all terrain vehicles on non-motorized trails and in environmentally sensitive areas. The map would be accompanied with physical upgrades such as signage. Work on this project shall be done in conjunction with groups such as the Klondike Snowmobile Association, Motor Vehicles Branch, and others.”
Where can one find this map? As far as we can tell it does not exist. If the City’s website had such a map, off-road-vehicle (ORV) operators would know what routes are considered to be out and away trails, and could better avoid so-called non-motorized trails on their way out of town.
(Another way we can “discourage the use of all terrain vehicles (snowmobiles) on non-motorized trails” by simply changing the Snowmobile Bylaw as previously suggested.)
Is there any existing signage that indicates a trail is an out and away trail?
Was any work done by the “Klondike Snowmobile Association, Motor Vehicles Branch, and others” on this project?
Glossary
ATWA would also like to see the following terms defined in the Glossarysection of the revised OCP document:
Multi-use trail:One that accommodates both motorized and non-motorizedrecreational or transportation uses. (OCP 18.5.1) (Hamilton Blvd paved trail is correctly signed as a Multi-use trail.) Having said this, it may be better to use the term Mixed-Use trail rather that Multi-Use trail, to represent this type of trail, as do other jurisdictions.
Motorized Multiple Use Trails - includes only those trails formally designed and designated by the City of Whitehorse to allow the use of motorized vehicles, including 4-wheel drive vehicles, motorcycles, all terrain vehicles (ATVs) and snowmobiles. (2007 Trail Plan p. 25) Please note that there is no mention that such trails would include non-motorized users.
Non-motorized Multiple Use Trails - designated non-motorized trails and all others by default – officially (but not in practice) includes all trails not officially designated by the City of Whitehorse to allow use of motorized vehicles. (2007 Trail Plan p. 25) Please note that there is no mention that such trails would include motorized users.
(In our view, administration continues to misuse the definitions of trail types as stated in the 2007 Trail Plan, which leads to much confusion.)
Thank you for allowing us to meet with you to discuss the above.
Pat Milligan and Keith Lay (Active Trails Whitehorse Association)
activetwa@gmail.com
www.activetwa.org