Members of the National Capital Region’s overland, off road and outdoor recreation community are coming together on May 23, 2026, for a major cleanup initiative in the Calabogie area.

Led by ncrOverland, Ottawa Valley Offroaders and OverlandNTH, the initiative will focus on removing garbage, clearing debris and restoring trails and backcountry campsites throughout the Calabogie region.

The cleanup effort aims to promote responsible motorized recreation, environmental stewardship and continued access to Crown land for future generations.

Participants from across Eastern Ontario will work together to collect and properly dispose of waste left behind on trails, campsites and surrounding outdoor areas. Organizers hope the event will not only improve the condition of the land but also raise awareness about the importance of respecting and protecting shared outdoor spaces.

“We all use these places, and we believe in leaving them better than we found them,” said Stéphane Shank of ncrOverland. “This is about stepping up, giving back and setting the standard for responsible recreation.”

Organizers are inviting volunteers, local businesses, sponsors and outdoor enthusiasts from across the region to take part in the initiative.

The trails and Crown land areas throughout the region are used by a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts including hikers, campers, motorcyclists, ATV riders, overlanders, off roaders and other recreation groups. Organizers say protecting and preserving these spaces is a shared responsibility that benefits everyone who enjoys the outdoors.

“Access to these trails isn’t guaranteed. It depends on how well we treat them,” explained Pierre Renaud, President of Ottawa Valley Offroaders. “Coming together like this shows that we’re committed to protecting these spaces for everyone.”

The organizers also wish to acknowledge and thank the Townships of Greater Madawaska and North Frontenac for their support of the initiative. Their assistance is helping make these efforts possible and demonstrates the value of collaboration between municipalities and communities.

“We spend a lot of time exploring these backcountry routes and we see firsthand the impact left behind,” noted Luke Nixon-Jassen of OverlandNTH. “This is about taking responsibility and showing that this community cares about these places.”

By working together, organizers hope to demonstrate that responsible recreation and environmental stewardship go hand in hand and that protecting these spaces is essential to maintaining long term access to Crown land and public trails.

Details
Location: Mountain Chute Meeting Place, North Frontenac (45.19355435514193, -76.90334203198574)
Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, May 23, 2026
Photos: 4:15 PM