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Groomed trails in P.E.I. National Park have become the latest victim of federal budget cuts. But many cross-country skiers say those trails are a necessary part of keeping active in the winter.
"Losing this as a trail system is a significant loss," said Don Mazer, who has used the Dalvay trails for the past 30 years. "Especially for people who do their primary skiing here."
Mazer said aside from private trails, cross-country skiers will be limited to Brookvale Provincial Ski Park. But Mazer argued the trails at the park provide options for all level of skiers.
Mazer said Parks Canada should look elsewhere to make the cuts. But the organization said it's a necessary step to protect summer programs.
"I understand why Islanders and some of our visitors would be upset with that decision," said Karen Jans of Parks Canada.
"We had to make some decisions here. We're focusing those investments when it's the highest need, the peak demand, so that we can ensure that we can continue to provide those kinds of quality services."
The park will remain open this winter, but along with cutting the groomers, Parks Canada won't be opening public washrooms, and no emergency services will be provided.
