This wiki is dedicated to providing information and updates regarding proposed changes to the trail network in Gatineau Park along Notch road. The wiki format allows any registered member of the group to easily add or edit content. New members can be added to this group by referral so please feel free to send an email with the name and email address of the person you wish to add to notch-trails@xogenus.com

Signs were posted on certain trails along the stretch of Notch road between chemin de la Mine and chemin Dunn announcing that unofficial trails would soon be closed and then naturalized. Despite the claim that this will “enhance the offer of recreational experiences for all users” this will have a severe impact on local residents and their health and quality of life by restricting their ability to access the Gatineau Park trail network. The Notch Trails Group is dedicated to ensuring that local residents can continue to enjoy the health and wellness benefits of the Gatineau Park Trail system while minimizing the dependence on motorized transportation to reach trail access points.

There is strength in numbers. We can work together to demonstrate to the NCC that local residents play an important role in monitoring and managing the health of Gatineau Park in the sector along side Notch road, and we fully embrace the existing multi-use aspect of the nearby trail system with an emphasis on minimizing environmental impact.

Talk to your neighbours, and use the link at the top of this page to refer them to this group so that they can become part of the solution too.

• Building Our Case
• Meetings and Events
• Latest News
• ToDo List
• Scratch Pad

Here's a list of next steps:

1. Reach out to anyone you know who may be affected or just want to help but is not already on the list
2. Have an outdoor meeting/brainstorming session to discuss talking points and strategies (Chris can host on Bronson if need be)
3. Reach out to other groups who have also wrestled with the NCC (Chris has reached out to the National Capital Open Water Swimmers Alliance but not had a response yet)
4. Contact the NCC's ombudsman, Oriana Trombetti (Chris will attempt to contact)
5. Contact local media (Low Down, CBC, Ottawa Citizen etc.)