Newsletter February 2025
The Massawippi Conservation Trust was deeply saddened by the passing of Gilbert Beaupré in 2021. A dedicated volunteer, Gilbert devoted several decades to maintaining the cross-country ski trails that run through our land and more than 15 neighbouring properties. He did this out of love for his community. In 2022, when his nephew Éric Beaupré asked us to ensure that the trails remained accessible to the public, we agreed to join the committee without hesitation.
Members of the community rallied round, giving their time and talent to ensure that the trails continued to develop. Gilbert’s spirit of generosity has been carried on by the volunteers who have taken over, all determined not to let his legacy fade.
To support their efforts, the Trust has purchased an ATV, which we share with the team during the winter months. We also maintain the sections of trail (around 2km) that run through our properties. The 23 km trail (15 km of the old route + 8 km of new trails), now known as Les 4 Vallons de Gilbert Beaupré, remains a real local treasure.
Two dedicated employees, Matthew and Dany, get up early every morning to maintain the trails and make sure they’re in top condition. They work for the Trust in the summer and continue their outdoor work in the winter, working with the Association des loisirs de Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley on the ski trails.
In 2024, we also awarded a grant to the Association to help cover the costs of a new section, ideal for beginner skiers. The previous winter had been less profitable due to insufficient snowfall, and the Association needed help to offset the costs. Working with Mother Nature can be unpredictable; the success of the season depends on the weather and the skiers who contribute, however modestly, to the upkeep and expansion of the trails.
We are proud of our partnership with the Comité des 4 Vallons, the many landowners who generously allow skiing on their land and the hard-working volunteers who keep the trails open to the public. We encourage everyone to support them by buying a season ticket or by visiting often and buying day tickets. Your investment will certainly be rewarded.
Hélène Hamel
Executive Director
Massawippi Foundation & Massawippi Conservation Trust
