Removing liability issues from the backs of landowners’ with mountain bike trails running through their properties would help secure the future of biking in the community, the president of Squamish’s largest mountain biking group says.
In 2011, the District of Squamish unveiled its Trails Master Plan. One of its main recommendations was the creation of a land use agreement that could be implemented between the municipality and landowners with mountain bike trails on their land. The policy’s aim would be to alleviate liability issues for the property owners, taking the risk out of landowners’ hands, Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA) president Jeff Cooke said.
“It has been something the district has been very slow to proceed with,” he said.
SORCA has focused on building relations with property owners. Currently, the association is in discussions with BC Timber Sale regarding a block near Half Nelson.
“I think the outcome will be something really good,” Cooke said. “I think we will end up with some new trails and better access.”
The Trails Master Plan (TMP) continues to support a variety of municipal initiatives underway, from ongoing improvements to the Corridor Trail to furthering the connectivity of neighbourhoods, Mayor Rob Kirkham stated in an email to The Squamish Chief.
As district staff explore the intricacies of insurance provider policies, legal ramifications and the positions of private landowners, it’s become increasingly apparent that there is no easy solution to the issue of safeguarding public access to recreational trails located on private property, Kirkham said. The municipality’s insurance provider — Municipal Insurance Association of British Columbia — will not indemnify third parties from liability.
There’s a delicate line to walk, Kirkham stated. While the district recognizes the value of Squamish’s trail network and improvements upon its infrastructure, it’s also imperative the community recognizes the rights of property owners to their land, he noted.
“At the heart of this discussion is how private landowners, user groups and the [district] can live in harmony to achieve the various objectives of each party. At the same, the Trails Master Plan already requires some updating based on today’s reality to ensure it is a future-looking document that takes into account Squamish’s rapid growth and growing stature as an outdoor adventure mecca,” Kirkham stated, noting the document will continue to be reviewed by council heading into 2015 strategic planning.
