Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority Shown (from left to right in the photo), with the South Huron Trail Mobile, are volunteer drivers Norm Eckel and Jim Hayter. The current Trail Mobile is new in 2025 and it is the third adapted cart since this community service began in 2006. The South Huron Trail Mobile program is celebrating its 20th anniversary of providing nature appreciation experiences, on the South Huron Trail, to people with limited mobility who would not have this nature appreciation opportunity otherwise. (Photo provided by Tim Cumming, Communications Coordinator, Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority)
Midwestern

South Huron Trail Mobile program celebrates 20 years

The South Huron Trail Mobile Program is celebrating two decades of existence.

The current trail mobile, purchased in 2025, is the third modified cart since the program began in 2006. The new vehicle has space for up to five passengers. The cart before had room for only three passengers.

For 20 years now, the program has allowed hundreds of people with limited mobility to enjoy a distinctive outdoor nature appreciation opportunity. The South Huron Trail Mobile program is only possible thanks to the dedication and commitment of volunteer drivers Norm Eckel and Jim Hayter, as well as generous donors that allow for the vehicle to be purchased.

Eckel has been driving for the program since 2012, while Hayter has been driving since 2019. The County of Huron honoured Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF) with a 2025 Award of Merit for Barrier-Free Access in recognition of the South Huron Trail Mobile.

"No words can fully capture how much we appreciate what they have done and how big a difference they are making in people’s lives," shared Nathan Schoelier, Acting General Manager and Stewardship, Land and Education Manager with Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority.

If you would like to support the Trail Mobile with a donation, visit the Conservation Foundation web page (https://www.abca.ca/foundation/donate/).

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