Research-Driven Visitor Management at Niagara Glen
SORP · October 7, 2026
What does it take to protect a sensitive natural area when access must remain free and open to all? This session explores how the Niagara Parks Commission partnered with Brock University and the Ontario Trails Council to address a surge in visitation, rising emergency rescues, and social trail proliferation through trail realignment, improved wayfinding, and a Trail Ambassador program.
Learning Objectives :
- Identify how multi-sector partnerships can support visitor management in high-traffic, free-access natural areas.
- Describe strategies for reducing environmental impact and improving visitor safety without restricting public access.
- Recognize the role of education and field staff engagement in fostering responsible trail use in sensitive ecosystems.
Competencies:
- Community Context
- Management Strategies
- Site-Specific Policy
- Outreach + Public Input
Presenters:
- John Foster
- Corey Burant
STEPS TO RECEIVE A CERTIFICATE FOR LEARNING CREDITS:
This course offers the following credits: AICP CM, LA CES (most HSW), SAF CE, and Equivalency Petition (CEU, PDH, etc.). American Trails is a certified provider and is excited to partner with SORP to offer free learning credits to attendees. If you passed the quiz with a 75% or higher, a certificate will automatically be emailed to you. If you did not pass, you can retake the quiz to obtain a passing score and certificate.