Accessible trails are an important way of ensuring more people can enjoy nature. They’re also an important signal that land trusts prioritize access. The Couchiching Conservancy’s Periwinkle Trail is one accessible trail, that has certainly had a positive impact in the local community.
But accessibility doesn’t stop at the trailhead. Accessibility accommodations can be as diverse as the people who need them. At the same time, the principle of universal design says that by prioritizing accessibility we often make things better for everyone. In particular, as we become more aware of the impacts of invisible disabilities, it is increasingly important to plan for accessibility. As part of our ongoing learning, OLTA staff have been building a better understanding of neurodiversity and mental health in the workplace. We will be sharing some resources below with an emphasis on neurodiversity, as well as other aspects of accessibility.
We encourage you to explore these and find what speaks to your needs and your land trust. If you know of a resource that you’d like to see here, please share it with us via admin@olta.ca.
Universal Design (University of Waterloo)
Supporting a NeuroDiverse Workforce (Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion)
Active Listening is the Key to (Neuro)Inclusive Communication (Specialisterne)
How to Make Interviews More Accessible for Autistic Candidates (Specialisterne)
Mental Health in Rural and Remote Canada (CMHA)
Resources on the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)