MÉLISSA GÉLINAS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – MRC Pontiac is developing a prototype geocaching app for five cycling routes across the region, including some in Bristol and Otter Lake.

Called the “Géotour du Pontiac,” the initiative will feature illustrated guides highlighting historical, cultural and noteworthy sites. “It’s a bit like a treasure hunt, using QR codes on a phone that lead to quizzes, videos and images,” said Stéphanie Hébert-Potter, Economic Development Commissioner for Tourism and Culture. “It’s similar to the concept behind Pokémon Go.”

The Pontiac spans 14,000 square kilometres and includes 18 municipalities and an unorganized territory. “There will, of course, be plenty of little hidden gems to discover,” Hébert-Potter said.

The prototype will allow the team to test, refine and develop the concept before expanding it along the cycling routes. It will be managed internally by the economic development team.

“Once the project is developed, there will be awareness and media campaigns to explain how the activity works,” she said.

During the prototype phase, the team will also work on solutions for areas lacking cellular coverage or network access.

Specific sites for the Géotour are still to be determined and approved.