Submission to Uxbridge…

Submission to Uxbridge Council: Advocacy for Including Horses in Shared Trail Systems

Date: January 26, 2024

Property Location: Adjacent to Uxbridge Urban Park

Subject: Request for Equal Access to Shared Trail Systems for Equestrians

As a resident and property owner adjacent to Uxbridge Urban Park, I am submitting this proposal to advocate for the inclusion of equestrians on all of the shared trail systems. Horses have historically been integral to trail use, and their exclusion from the current proposal is inequitable, especially when cyclists and e-bikes are being allowed. This submission outlines the reasons why equestrians should be granted access and provides examples of successful multi-use trail systems.

Key Reasons for Including Horses on Shared Trails

1. Historical and Cultural Significance

Horses have been used on trails for centuries, serving as a natural and sustainable mode of transport. They remain a vital part of the local rural and equestrian heritage, which Uxbridge is known for.

2. Environmental Sustainability

Horses have a low environmental impact compared to motorized vehicles.

Natural hoofprints cause minimal trail wear, and horse manure decomposes quickly, enriching the soil rather than harming the environment.

3. Fair and Equitable Access

Excluding equestrians while allowing cyclists and e-bikes creates an imbalance in access to public trails. Shared-use trails should accommodate all non-motorized and low-impact users to ensure fairness and inclusivity.

4. Safety and Etiquette

Horses are naturally slower-moving than bicycles and e-bikes, reducing the risk of high-speed collisions.

Many multi-use trail systems worldwide successfully implement yield systems (e.g., bikes yield to pedestrians, and all users yield to horses). Proper signage and education programs can address safety concerns.

5. Economic and Tourism Benefits

Uxbridge can benefit from increased equestrian tourism by attracting riders to the area. Local businesses such as cafes, tack shops, and accommodations catering to riders would see economic growth.

Trails that include horses often attract riders from other regions, promoting Uxbridge as a welcoming, multi-use destination.

6. Promotion of Health and Well-Being

Equestrian activities provide physical and mental health benefits, including improved core strength, posture, and stress relief. Riders deserve the same access to outdoor recreation opportunities as other trail users.

7. Precedent from Other Trail Systems

Successful examples of multi-use trails in Ontario and beyond demonstrate the feasibility of including horses. Notable examples include the Trans Canada Trail and sections of the Bruce Trail, where equestrians coexist harmoniously with hikers and cyclists.

These systems have implemented guidelines, signage, and designated horse-friendly areas to ensure compatibility.

8. Low-Cost Implementation

Granting horses access to shared trails does not require significant investment. Simple measures such as horse-friendly signage, trail etiquette guidelines, and waste disposal bins can facilitate integration without major infrastructure changes.

Proposed Actions

Pilot Program: Introduce a trial period allowing equestrians on specific sections of the shared trail system to monitor compatibility and gather feedback from all trail users.

Signage and Education: Install clear signs and provide educational materials on trail etiquette for all users, including yielding rules and safety tips for interacting with horses.

Community Engagement: Host open forums or workshops to foster understanding and collaboration among trail users, including cyclists, hikers, and equestrians.

Ongoing Monitoring: Establish a feedback mechanism to address concerns and make adjustments as needed to ensure safe and harmonious trail use.

Conclusion

Inclusion of horses in the shared trail system aligns with the principles of equity, sustainability, and community engagement. By implementing proper guidelines and fostering mutual respect among trail users, Uxbridge can set an example as a leader in multi-use trail systems. I respectfully request that the council consider this submission and approve a plan to incorporate equestrians into the shared trail network.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I am happy to provide further information, references, or support to assist in this process.