The Lakelse Watershed Stewards Society (LWSS) is making notable progress on the Jackpine Flats trail expansion, with phase two expected to conclude by the end of next week. This project, initiated in 2023, aims to create a unique and accessible recreational space around a natural wetland for residents in the Terrace and Kitimat areas, blending educational opportunities with scenic experiences.
"We finished the back 800 metres or so, back in June and July," said Rachel Sweezey, the project's manager. "It's all kind of a natural surface gravel with a bit of imported gravel just at the start, and our contractor is now working on the first 300 metres to connect it to phase one."
Phase two of the project introduces 1,200 metres of new trail, featuring the construction of several bridges over drainages and a creek. Sweezey emphasised the community's support, highlighting a recent $15,000 grant from the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine (RDKS).
"We just got approved for the RDKS grant, which was super helpful for sure," she noted. "It adds to our long list of funders and supporters for the project, which has been really helpful."
Beyond recreation, the trail is crucial in preserving one of the few remaining natural wetlands in the area. Protected under the Forest and Range Practices Act, it holds a provincial designation as a UREP/Recreation Reserve. The LWSS is working to further secure official Recreation Trail designation, aiming to protect the area from potential developments like logging that could threaten the wetland's ecosystem.
Phase one of the project included the construction of a parking lot, 500 metres of gravel trail, interpretative signage, a trailhead kiosk, and a picnic table at a lookout point.
The final phase of the project is scheduled to begin in late 2024 or early 2025. This will involve the installation of two boardwalk sections around the wetland's south side, connecting the first two phases and completing the trail loop. The boardwalks, though costly, are a key feature that Sweezey says will offer visitors stunning views of the wetland and surrounding mountains.
"This trail is really meeting a need that the area doesn't really have—an accessible trail that literally anybody can go out on, from grandparents to grandkids," Sweezey said. "It's designed to be short and sweet but in a really unique ecosystem."
Since the start of construction, the LWSS has raised $129,600 through public and private grants, with the total project cost estimated at $363,300.
