New grooming equipment will improve trail network and attract new visitors

IROQUOIS FALLS — The Ontario government is investing $18,717 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help the Iroquois Falls Cross-Country Ski Club purchase new trail grooming equipment. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, the NOHFC is making strategic investments to build stronger, healthier and more self-reliant northern communities by enhancing recreational infrastructure that will benefit residents, attract visitors and boost local tourism.

“By funding new trail grooming equipment, our government is boosting northern Ontario’s winter economy through improved tourism and recreational opportunities,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Northern Ontario is a premier destination for winter sports, and by supporting the Iroquois Falls Cross-Country Ski Club, we are ensuring high-quality outdoor experiences for residents and visitors alike.”

The club, a not-for-profit organization with over 50 years of history dedicated to promoting outdoor recreation in Iroquois Falls, will use NOHFC funding to purchase a new snowmobile for trail grooming. The new equipment will enhance the quality and reliability of the Iroquois Falls Cross-Country Ski Club trails by ensuring more efficient and effective trail maintenance, resulting in improved programming and more enjoyable experiences for skiers of all ages and capabilities. Well-groomed trails will also increase the club’s capacity to host future events and training camps, attracting more visitors and generating additional revenue. The club offers year-round programming, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, trail running, biking and hiking.

“The Iroquois Falls Cross-Country Ski Club is a shining gem in our small, rural, northern town,” said Bob Miller, President, Iroquois Falls Cross-Country Ski Club. “Nestled in the boreal forest, our pristine trails sparkle with fresh snow. As a non-profit established over 50 years ago, we offer healthy outdoor recreation, including skiing and snowshoeing, for people of all ages. Our family-focused activities include school programs, women’s nights, seniors’ afternoons and children’s ski camps. Donations from local businesses, citizens and government agency grants, such as this NOHFC grant, enable our club to thrive.”

The Ontario government is prioritizing investments through the NOHFC that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of northern Ontario. The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the north remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s investment of an additional $30 million over three years, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.

Quick Facts

• Over one-third of domestic tourist visits in northern Ontario included participation in an outdoor or sports activity in 2023.
• Through its funding programs, the NOHFC offers support to public and private sector economic development projects across northern Ontario.
• Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $1 billion in over 8,200 projects in northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 12,800 jobs.

Additional Resources

• The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.