The AHA plans to be at the table when the Alberta government tables a DAO (a self-financing delegated administrative organization) for trails this autumn. Such legislation may mean user fees and/or the fact that hikers will have no say in trail construction and maintenance, especially if the motorized lobby “captures” the DAO. What effect such a DAO will have on Alberta Trail Net that receives, in part, government funding to support organizations in building and maintaining trails in the province is unclear.

If you are a hiker, you will want to read further.