By: Michael Bennett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Ridgetown Independent News
A month after Ward 3 East Kent Councillor John Wright brought the matter to Council, the Chatham-Kent Police has launched a public awareness campaign to promote safe and responsible use of the CASO Trail.
Chatham-Kent Police, in partnership with Entegrus and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, launched the campaign last Friday in response to a number of complaints about motorized vehicles being driven illegally on the CASO Trail in the Howard Township area.
The CASO Trail, which runs from Communication Road to the Elgin County border along the former Canada Southern Railway corridor, is a well-used recreational space for walking, running, cycling, and enjoying nature.
The trail, which is designed for non-motorized recreation only, is one of 58 in the Chatham-Kent Trails system.
Wright asked administration to consult with Entegrus and the CK Police on ways to address the improper vehicle use and prevent damage along the CASO Trail at the Nov. 17 Council meeting.
One week earlier, a representative of a citizens’ group in the Muirkirk area brought the ongoing problems to the attention of The Ridgetown Independent News, which ran a story in its Nov. 12 edition.
At that time, residents were concerned that the trail had become “quite dangerous,” with ATVs running up and down the path and riders at times verbally harassing people who were legally walking, running, or cycling.
In recent weeks, ATVs and snowmobiles using the trail illegally have caused deep ruts and damage to the trail, posing a safety risk to walkers and cyclists.
Residents’ concerns about the ongoing issues on the CASO Trail, as well as unauthorized motorized vehicles, dumping and trespassing on private Entegrus property – the western portion of the former railroad from Communication Road to the Essex County border, which is not part of the Chatham-Kent Trail system – prompted the police and partners to take action.
“The initiative aims to address ongoing concerns reported along the trail and surrounding the Entegrus Corridor, while educating residents about permitted activities and how to report issues,” the CK Police said. “Concerns such as these have highlighted the need to reinforce responsible trail use.”
“As community partners, we are committed to preserving the safety, accessibility and enjoyment of the CASO Trail for everyone,” the police stated.
The campaign aims to help residents understand what is permitted, what is not and how to report concerns directly to the Chatham-Kent Police.
The CASO Trail is intended for non-motorized recreation, including walking and hiking, running, cycling, bird watching and nature observation.
Motorized vehicles (such as ATVs or snowmobiles) and dumping are not permitted.
“These activities can damage the gravel surface, cause erosion and create safety hazards for others,” stated the police.
Police say the Entegrus corridor from Communication Road to the Essex border is private property, and trespassers are not allowed.
People are urged to check signage and maps before visiting to confirm permitted uses not only on the CASO Trail but also on any trails in the Chatham-Kent system.
Residents are encouraged to report concerns about any prohibited activity – such as ATVs, snowmobiles, dumping or other prohibited activities on the CASO Trail – through the Chatham-Kent Police’s online reporting tool. www.services.tryrubicon.com/chatham-kent-police-service/online-reports
The Chatham-Kent Police said it is actively monitoring and responding to these reports.
“Through working together, the community can help protect the CASO Trail and ensure it remains a safe, welcoming space for current and future generations,” said the CK Police.
Inquires to the Chatham-Kent Police on its plans to increase patrols in the CASO Trail area in Howard Twp. area, and if any charges have been laid to date to those operating vehicles illegally or causing damage on the trail, were not returned by the deadline for this edition.
