Chutes Coulonge AGM highlights growth, heritage, and future plans
William Dale
Local Journalism Initiative
Published online August 27, 2025, at www.pontiacjournal.com.
MANSFIELD – The Friends of Chutes Coulonge held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on August 11, marking another year of progress for the non-profit that has managed the historic site since 1992. The meeting brought together board members, funding partners, and community supporters to review finances, discuss governance, and outline ambitious plans for the years ahead.
Executive Director Brittany Morin said the past year was a milestone, as the park completed its first full year of year-round operations. “This was a big step for us,” she explained. “Becoming a four-season destination has always been a goal, and now we’re seeing how it can work in practice.”
One highlight was Timbercut Hockey, a new winter attraction blending mini-putt with hockey. Morin said the pilot exceeded expectations. “It was very successful,” she said. “Families loved it, and it gave us something new to offer in the winter. This year we’ll start earlier so we can run it for the full season.”
Looking ahead, Morin presented a five-year plan focused on expanding spring and fall programming while strengthening winter activities. “We’ve come a long way in building a year-round offer,” she said. “But there’s still work to do. The goal is to create experiences that keep people coming back no matter the season.”
Board members also reviewed bylaws, appointed directors, and presented the financial report. The Friends operate under a 25-year lease with the MRC Pontiac, running until 2044 at a symbolic cost of one dollar per year. An eight-member volunteer board governs the organization, supported by a director general, operations manager, seasonal staff, and summer students.
Part of the group’s mission is to preserve and interpret the site’s heritage. Once central to the Ottawa Valley forestry industry, the Coulonge Falls were bypassed by a log slide that kept timber moving downriver. Today, visitors learn that history through interpretive trails, exhibits, and tours, alongside modern attractions such as zip lines, an aerial course, via ferrata, yurts, and a children’s water park.
Morin said balancing recreation with history makes Chutes Coulonge unique. “We’re not just an adventure park,” she said. “We’re also a place that tells the story of this region and its forestry past. Our goal is to celebrate both.”
As the organization looks forward with a clear roadmap, the AGM reaffirmed the Friends’ dual role as guardians of local history and innovators in regional tourism. “We’ve been holding these meetings every year since 1992,” Morin said. “Each one is about accountability, but it’s also about vision. We’re proud of what’s been accomplished, and we’re excited for what’s to come.”
Photo – The Friends of Chutes Coulonge gathered for their annual meeting
August 11 to review progress and discuss plans for future growth. (WD)
