Today was a special day on the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail in Carleton Place as a section of the trail was formally dedicated in memory of Ian Edwards (1962–2025).
Ian was a dedicated community volunteer, snowmobile club volunteer, trail builder, leader, and community champion who gave countless hours to improving and supporting our local trail network. His efforts helped secure funding for trail infrastructure, improve bridges and trails, organize volunteers, and complete the hands-on work needed to keep our trails moving forward. This dedication is a fitting tribute to someone who understood the importance of trails not only for recreation, but for bringing people and communities together.
A memorial bench has also been installed overlooking the trail on the bridge overlooking the Mississippi River. Take a moment to stop, reflect, and remember Ian and the difference one dedicated volunteer can make.
We are grateful to everyone who helped make this tribute possible and to those who joined us for the dedication.
Ian’s work will continue to be enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, snowmobilers, ATV riders and other trail users for many years to come. His legacy truly lives on through the trail and the community he helped build.
Thank you, Ian.
