Join Our Team as a Trail Director!
The Oak Ridges Trail Association (ORTA) is seeking a dedicated Trail Director (volunteer position) to lead the maintenance and enhancement of the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail. Volunteers are essential to our mission, and we need your expertise to keep our trails in top condition.
About ORTA: Our mandate is to plan, promote, create, and maintain public recreational trails on the Oak Ridges Moraine for the enjoyment and education of the general public. Our trail system connects the Bruce Trail, the Ganaraska Trail, and other public recreational trails throughout the Oak Ridges Moraine.
Through hiking and related activities, ORTA promotes public awareness and appreciation of the natural environment, encouraging ecologically responsible stewardship of this valuable resource.
Key Responsibilities:
- Promote health and safety practices for volunteer trail workers annually.
- Ensure Chapter Chairs are appointed for the entire trail and support them in recruiting Trail Captains for inspections.
- Ensure Trail Condition Reports are submitted twice per year for the entire trail.
- Follow up on safety issues from the Trail Condition Reports to ensure they are resolved.
- Collaborate with Chapter Chairs to develop estimates for trail work requiring materials, equipment, etc.
- Provide recommendations for trail improvements.
- Investigate and learn sustainable trail maintenance practices and share that knowledge.
- Mentor new Chapter Chairs and Trail Captains to ensure they understand the Trail Standards and Safety Policy.
- Discuss re-routes with the President and communicate as needed.
- Update the trail structures spreadsheet regularly and forward it to the Board each October before budget planning.
- Submit mapping updates to ensure the Ondago app and website re-routes are current.
- Respond to emails sent to trails@oakridgestrail.org.
- Ensure the ORTA Trail Maintenance Guide is up to date.
- Attend Board meetings or become a director (optional).
Qualifications:
- Previous trail work experience is an asset.
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to encourage volunteer participation and maintain good relationships with property owners.
Benefits:
- Expense reimbursement for trail maintenance supplies and mileage.
If you are passionate about trail maintenance and the natural environment, please express your interest in writing to pres@oakridgestrail.org.