The Municipality of Chatham-Kent (CK) continues brainstorming to find ways to control All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) and improve safety at the CASO recreational trail in Ridgetown.
An information report going to CK council on Monday night notes traffic data collection devices installed at five locations along the trail over seven days captured ATVs reaching speeds of 69 km/hr.
"The information collected confirmed that motorized vehicle activity occurs at various locations along the trail and identified periods when activity is more likely to occur," staff said. "The data has aided in better understanding trail usage patterns and support decisions regarding monitoring and patrol activities."
Administration said a monitoring camera has been installed near Base Road and a police tracking system has been set up to compile trail complaints and incidents and identify recurring locations, times and patterns of activity.
More police patrols have been requested, including bike patrols and the effectiveness of existing gates, barriers, and other access-control measures is still under review, the report stated.
CK police (CKPS) have also met with ATV clubs to discuss the recurring concerns along the CASO Trail and officially share trail restrictions with their members.
Administration said it continues to work with Entegrus and Chatham-Kent police to monitor concerns and respond to reports of unauthorized ATV use and damage along the CASO Trail.
It has also reached out to other municipalities to gather enforcement ideas.
"Consultation with CKPS, Entegrus, and peer municipalities indicates that a combination of signage, access controls, monitoring, public awareness and targeted enforcement represents the most common and effective approach to be utilized," noted administration. "Although physical barriers may reduce access opportunities, they can be damaged, removed or bypassed, particularly along lengthy linear corridors such as the CASO Trail. More restrictive barriers may also create challenges related to accessibility requirements, maintenance operations, and emergency response access."
Administration says it will review the available incident, patrol and monitoring information following the 2026 trail season to determine whether additional access-control, education, or enforcement measures should be considered.
