This Fall the FVMBA is initiating a FREE Trail Steward training and mentorship program. Successful applicants will receive training in trail building and maintenance as well as first aid and chainsaw safety. After program completion, participants will receive a selection of trail tools essential for helping out on the trail. Training opportunities will run through Fall 2023 and Spring 2024. Space is limited!

In exchange for providing free training, all program participants are asked to commit to 30 hours of volunteer work on the trails within 12 months of completing the program.

Applications open September 12th.

Successful applicants to the program will receive the following:

First Aid Certification

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Successful applicants can choose between taking OFA Level 1 at a time that works for them (FVMBA will reimburse training costs) or joining a Remote First Aid Course to be held early Spring 2024.

Chainsaw Safety Training

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The FVMBA is hosting a course on Chainsaw Safety & Cutting Techniques taught by Arbor Canada for successful applicants. This training will be held on a weekend in Fall 2023.

Trail Building Workshops

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Learn about trail maintenance & building through FVMBA Trail Workshops: repairing & preventing erosion, building bridges & wood features, using rock work on trails, & much more!

Essential Trail Tool Kit

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Complete the program & receive tools to get to you started, including a folding hand saw, a custom trail tool, shovel, draw knife, and more!

Why is the FVMBA offering this program?

Trails don’t maintain themselves and with over 1200 km of trails within the Fraser Valley to care for, we need your help! Our goal is to increase our volunteer capacity and empower our trail community with the skills necessary to help maintain the trails we all love. Having sustainable trails not only means designing trails to protect the environment and help minimize maintenance but also fostering a community of folks who are passionate about caring for the trails.

This program is funded by the Government of Canada’s Community Services Recovery Fund. The Community Services Recovery Fund is a $400 million investment from the Government of Canada to support community service organizations, including charities, non-profits and Indigenous governing bodies, as they adapt and modernize their organizations.