CLAYMINE PROPERTY TOUR

On Nov. 27, 1011, I was fortunate to meet up with Phyllis and Brenda of the Claymine Trails Committee to tour the Claymine Property.  I met with these 2 lovely ladies at 10 am; the temperature was above 0 deg. C. and the weather slightly drizzly and misty / foggy.  We walked and chatted for upwards of 2 hours discussing plans for the property, their vision, and some politics.  It was, for me, a well worthwhile meeting and I so appreciate the time they gave on this Sunday morning.  We walked through what is a typical mixed forest stand, for this area, comprised of Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, spruce intermixed with paper birch and some aspen.  The area was, at one point, heavily infested by mountain pine beetle, but much of these dead and damaged trees have fallen and /or been removed.

Brenda LeBeck & Phyllis Robertson - my tour guides

Claymine Property is located on Claymine Road in the Bouchie Lake area.  To access the trail, turn right on to the Blackwater Road and right again on Claymine Road.  The parking lot and trail head is on the left a short drive along Claymine Road.  The property is 48 acres (Lot E of DL 8639) and is owned by the Cariboo Regional District.  It is managed by the Bouchie Lake Recreation Commission as per the CRD Bouchie Lake Recreation Commission Bylaw No. 4712, 2011. 

These trails are a jewell to the Bouchie Lake area.  Trails have existed throughout this property for many years; they were comprised of previously used logging roads, wildlife trails, and quad (ATV) trails.  Plans have been in the works for several years to develop a walking trail system on the property for local & non-local residents to enjoy and use.  Through the dedication, perseverance and hardwork of a small number of local volunteers, this dream has been realised.

In 2010, the Bouchie Lake Recreation Commission accessed a $2000 grant through the Quesnel Community Foundation (http://www.quesnelfoundation.ca/) for signage and fitness stations.  There are now 3 fitness stations which are accessible via the trail system. 

It was decided to chose the section of trails to develop and improve, taking into consideration neighbours and other issues.  The result is a "figure 8" loop.  Other funds were received through Action Plan D'Action.


Phyllis demonstrating the use
of this fitness station



Heloise using this fitness station












 One of the aims for the Claymine Property is to engage people so that it be used on a regular basis and for activities and events.  Currently, Bouchie Lake Elementary School has adopted approximately 100 metres of a section of a trail and are looking after its management.  This includes removing any fallen debris and keeping the trail free and open.  This section of trail is marked with beautiful markers designed by children at Bouchie Lake School.

Other features at the property include a well maintained and clean outhouse, a bridge, parking lot, and excellent front entrance signage.  For 2012, it would be wonderful for some events to be planned on the property so as to raise funds and increase its profile within the community.  Volunteers are always needed to assist with maintenance and clean up.  Areas of the property have experienced a substantial amount of blow down.

As the property is managed by the BLRC, I will be recommending that an appointed commissioner have Claymine Property within their portfolio of responsibilities.  In January, 2012 I will also be recommending to the incoming commission that a Claymine Property Committee be established comprised of a designated commissioner and 3-4 community members at large who have a vested interest in developing a 1-3 year plan for Claymine Property.  This committee will create their own Misson Statement and establish their own mandate, priorities and goals which are reported to the BLRC for final comment and approval.  If you are interested in being on this Committee, please let me and /or the incoming Commission know.

Thank you again for Phyllis and Brenda for being such wonderful guides and for working so hard for the community.