We think ALL volunteers are fantastic, but we tip our hat to Gerry Giesler. He’s been volunteering his time with the Discovery Routes Trails Organization for a whopping 16 years! Gerry was instrumental in improving paddling access to the South River Water Trail and successfully getting portage trails around a number of hydro dams between Trout Creek and Powassan.
“I’ve always been an outdoors person and liked doing outdoor stuff,” Gerry says. “What it boils down to is I like sharing my knowledge and making sure other people can get to enjoy the outdoors too.”
“Trail champions” from around the region gathered at The Pines trails in Powassan to celebrate the contribution of volunteers to the trails network across Nipissing and the Almaguin Highlands. At least 56 separate community trail partners manage and maintain local trails, and many of these groups rely entirely on volunteers who donate their time, energy and talents.
Powassan Mayor Peter McIsaac was on hand for the trail walk and to salute Gerry’s dedication. “On behalf of the Municipality of Powassan we thank Gerry for many hours of dedication to trails and recreation in our community,” he said.
Discovery Routes Trails Organization is a charity and non-profit that promotes the use and development of trails and active transportation systems in Ontario’s Near North through collaborations and resource sharing.
“The pandemic created a dramatic increase in demand for outdoor activities,” said Susan Christian, Chair of Discovery Routes. “We know that trails are powerful tools for individuals to improve mental, physical and emotional health and want to recognize and celebrate the countless volunteers in communities across the Near North who keep the trails we all love open and safe for all to enjoy.”
For more info or to volunteer with Discovery Routes: https://discoveryroutes.ca/.
