The Rideau Trail is a contiguous trail from Kingston to Ottawa, thanks to the co-operation of private and public landowners who grant permission to the Association and its members to access their property.

The continuity of the Trail may sometimes be affected by such things as rezoning for development or changes in land ownership with a subsequent denial of access. To help protect the integrity of the Trail, the RTA created the Preservation Fund in July 1986 "to ensure the protection, preservation and enhancement of the Trail". This Fund will help the RTA to combat undesirable changes and to provide a means for growth and improvement of the current Trail via special projects. RTA Members are encouraged to contribute to this Fund, and Canadian Members receive an Income Tax credit for their gift.

There are six specific objectives for the Fund:

• To enable the Association to purchase or lease, where necessary, lands, or to obtain rights of way or access along the route whch might otherwise be endangered or alienated.
• To enable the Association to provide financial assistance to other organizations in order to facilitate their purchase or lease of lands adjacent to the Trail or through which the Trail passes when this will ensure an appropriate environment for the Trail.
• To carry out physical improvements to the Trail which involve major expenditures.
• To establish structures and facilities which provide for overnight use of the Trail and provide protection in inclement weather.
• To facilitate major Trail re-routing which enhances or preserves the Trail.
• To permit the construction of additions to the Trail in the form of loops and side trails.