The United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry (SDG), in association with the Friends of the Summerstown Trails (FOTST), recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the new parking lot at the Summerstown Forest. This event was held in conjunction with the Official Opening Day Activities at the trails organized by FOTST.
SDG continues to take an active role in promoting and enhancing recreational activities at the Summerstown Forest. Recent initiatives include hazardous tree assessment and removal, new and improved signage and the installation of the new parking lot in 2017. SDG, in partnership with the FOTST, relocated and expanded the parking lot which is now located adjacent to County Road 27; improving access, visibility, and safety. The parking lot construction was completed using recycled material; which resulted in a significant cost savings of approximately $17,000.
“SDG is continuing to invest in the county owned forests in many ways,” said SDG Warden Ian McLeod. “Signage is being designed for a number of forests, as well as official naming of the properties. SDG Regional Tourism is continuing to increase awareness of all the beautiful natural assets within the region by developing new online tools and working with volunteer groups.”
The Summerstown Forest is host to 20 kilometres of groomed cross-country ski trails (entrance at 6150 County Rd 27, Williamstown) and 9 kilometres of snowshoe trails, which are used by tourists and residents including summer hikers, birders, and hunters. These trails are maintained and operated by FOTST under a Memorandum of Understanding with the County. The Friends of the Summerstown Trails (FOTST) is a community, not-for-profit corporation that promotes interest in outdoor recreation, physical fitness, health and appreciation of nature in the community.
