NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release 2010FOR0039-000341 March 30, 2010

Ministry of Forests and Range

 

OFF-ROAD VEHICLE USERS REMINDED TO RESPECT ENVIRONMENT

 

VICTORIA – In addition to people exploring the Cariboo, spring also brings patrols of Crown land and Forest Service roads to ensure off-road vehicles are used responsibly, Minister of Forests and Range Pat Bell reminded riders today.

 

“ATV, 4X4 and dirt-bike use increases from April to October, and riders should be prepared for a trip that brings no harm to themselves or the environment,” said Bell. “Most people value the experience and respect the land they are recreating on, but those who cause environmental damage will be held accountable.”

 

Environmentally sensitive areas such as grasslands, wetlands, streams, hillsides and alpine lands provide critical habitat for a wide range of plants and animals, but can suffer long-term damage from a single use of a motorized vehicle. People found damaging sensitive areas may be issued a violation ticket of $575 or face penalties of up to $100,000.

 

Crown land near 100 Mile House, Quesnel and Williams Lake will be patrolled throughout the spring, summer and fall. Patrols will be both random, and target sites that have been damaged by off-road motorized vehicles in recent years. The public is urged to respect the environment and stay on authorized roads, trails and designated motorized vehicle areas.

 

A brochure about responsible off-road vehicle use is at: www.for.gov.bc.ca/ftp/hen/external/!publish/web/otherPublication/ProtectOurForestsAndRangeLand.pdf

 

All motor vehicle operators on Forest Service roads must have a valid driver’s licence for the vehicle they are driving. All operators must also carry a minimum of $200,000 third-party liability insurance, available through insurance agents. Recreational motorized vehicle and outdoor recreation clubs often provide group insurance policies as part of their membership package.

 

The public is encouraged to use forest and range lands responsibly and report any suspected forestry or range contraventions or crimes to the Province’s toll-free, 24-hour, Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1-877 952-7277.

 

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Media Contact:

Public Affairs Bureau Ministry of Forests and Range 250 387-8482

 

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