Accuracy Without Boundaries: Trimble Catalyst and the Bruce Trail
The Site
The Bruce Trail in Ontario, Canada
Challenge
Achieving Precision Mapping Beyond RTK Coverage
Solution
Trimble Catalyst GNSS System
Outcome
Centimetre-level accuracy was achieved in remote and forested areas, enabling precise and successful surveying
Background
The Bruce Trail, Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath, stretches 900 kilometers along the Niagara Escarpment—a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Managed by the Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC), this vital corridor supports recreation, conservation, and environmental stewardship.
Since the 1960s, the BTC has relied on passionate volunteers like Pat Hills and his wife, Helen, who spend their summers at their cottage in Tobermory, Ontario. Pat, a retired Cansel partner, dedicates his time to trail maintenance, clearing fallen trees, and mapping new trail sections. “The Bruce Trail is a treasure,” said Pat. “Helen and I love being part of a greater cause. It’s great to give back to a trail that brings so much joy and connection to nature for so many people.”
The Challenge: Precision Mapping Beyond RTK Coverage
Urban sprawl, industrial development, and changing land use are threatening the continuity of the trail. In response, the Conservancy’s mission is to secure the remaining portions of the trail still located on private land.
Maintaining the Bruce Trail involves critical tasks like boundary demarcation, intrusion detection, and location and removal of invasive plant species. Given Pat’s extensive background in surveying and mapping, he was a natural fit to assist with creating and locating new trail sections, marking boundaries around private lands, and managing BTC-owned properties.
However, the Northern Bruce Peninsula lies outside Can-Net, the largest VRS (Virtual Reference Station) network in Canada, making precise locates in this remote region a significant challenge.
The Solution: Trimble Catalyst GNSS System
Cansel’s geospatial expert and Regional Sales Manager, Adam Tyler, recommended the Trimble Catalyst GNSS System, which combines:
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Trimble DA2 Antenna:
Lightweight and easy to deploy. -
Trimble TDC6 Data Collector:
Compact and field-ready. -
Trimble Access Software and Catalyst Subscription:
Enabling centimetre-level accuracy with Trimble's RTX global corrections via internet/L-band signal
“The performance of the Catalyst system was outstanding.”
Pat used Catalyst for mapping new trail sections and identifying ecological features.
“With a clear view of the sky, I consistently achieved centimetre accuracy, and in dense coniferous forests, it still maintained accuracy around 10 centimetres. Cansel’s recommended solution was exactly what we needed for this project. I would recommend a Trimble Catalyst system for any company who is looking to quickly deploy field staff for surveying efforts in remote regions where Can-Net is not available.”
Project Outcomes: From Open Skies to Forest Canopies, Trimble Catalyst Delivers
Precise and reliable location data in the Northern Bruce Peninsula was achieved using the Trimble Catalyst GNSS System. Thanks to its innovative capabilities, Pat Hills was able to avoid the complexities of ensuring positional accuracy in an area where traditional connectivity solutions were unavailable.
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Portable Efficiency:
Lightweight hardware ideal for remote fieldwork. -
Accuracy in Any Terrain:
Delivered high precision from open skies to dense forests. -
Streamlined Data Integration:
Simplified updates for BTC maps and operational planning. -
Cost Savings:
Eliminated the need for a physical base station, reducing complexity and costs. -
User-Endorsed:
“The combination of lightweight hardware and Trimble Access made Catalyst purpose-built for my needs on the Bruce Peninsula,” Pat shared.
Facing the Future with Confidence
Originally conceived as a walking path for the public, the Bruce Trail has expanded its purpose to include nature conservation efforts aimed at preventing environmental degradation and habitat fragmentation. These efforts are essential for preserving Ontario’s most cherished natural corridor.
With volunteers like Pat Hills, the BTC continues its mission to conserve the Bruce Trail amid challenges. But with the right technology, paired with expertise and a passion for positive impact, no challenge is insurmountable.
Partner with Us
To learn more about our GNSS systems, Can-Net, and other high-accuracy positioning solutions, reach out to Cansel today. We’re here to help.