The Preeceville Lions Club members have continued with their major project of creating a walking and ski trail around the Town of Preeceville according to Ralph Ager, Lions member.
"We created this idea in 2018 for making improvements to the existing trail and creating a walking, bicycling and cross country ski trail that individuals could walk or ski around the town when completed," said Ager.
The multi-purpose trail has been funded by the proceeds from the Chase the Ace funds. A committee was established to oversee this project with members from the Lions Club, Kelsey Ecological Society and community members.
Since the beginning of the project, the Lions have worked throughout to widen the trail and put up snow fence for trail protection. The project was started on the south side of Annie Laurie Lake and went to the Town pump house.
"To-date all the tree work has been completed along the trail," said Ager. "We have put up snow and board fence at the entrances on each access point to deter quads and protect the trail. Signage has been put up along the trail.鈥�
The trail is groomed with a 10-foot width and graveled pathway for avid walkers, bird watchers and cyclists to enjoy in the summer and as a great ski trail in the winter.
Approximately two-and-a-quarter miles have been done on the trail and when complete it will be five-and-a-half miles.
"We will continue to make improvements to the trail. We purchased a new Tidd Tech cross country ski groomer and packer with the support of the wildlife club. We have also purchased a container to store the groomer, snowmobile and other equipment,' stated Ager.
鈥淭he Lions Club is in negotiations with landowners in order to expand the trail. Our hope is that once it is completed we can join up with Sturgis through the existing old rail road bed which makes for a great basis for a trail.鈥�
There were 30 bird houses donated that were put up along the trail which encourages the bird population and makes for great bird watching.
鈥淲e will be looking at putting up a warm up shack and benches along the trail,鈥� continued Ager. 鈥淭he benches will be in memory of passed members, Ron and Rob Neitling, Peter Predy and Nestor Maksymiw. The Lioness club is also looking at purchasing two benches in dedication of some of its members. There have been numerous volunteers helping with the trail and the Lions is very appreciative of everyone's help.鈥�
The Lions continue to work on community developments that attracts people to the community and promote fitness.
