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Snowmobile Restrictions Being Enforced in Wilderness Reserves Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are privileged to have a number of wilderness and ecological reserves that protect and conserve this province�s natural heritage. To ensure the protection of these ecologically-significant areas, users of the Avalon and Bay du Nord Wilderness Reserves are reminded that snowmobile use is restricted and this restriction is being enforced. "These wilderness reserves are important areas for our province�s woodland caribou herds," said the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Environment and Conservation. "Human activities which can influence the productivity and survival of species and impact the environment are regulated." Snowmobiling has been prohibited in the Avalon Wilderness Reserve since 1964. In the Bay du Nord Wilderness Reserve, snowmobiling is prohibited in the winter range of the Middle Ridge Caribou Herd but is allowed in other parts of the reserve, and low impact recreational activities such as skiing and snowshoeing are permitted. "The Avalon Wilderness Reserve was one of the first reserves established in the province and is considered a jewel in the reserve system," said Minister Jackman. "While I encourage the public to experience our wilderness and ecological reserves, I ask that everyone adhere to the snowmobile restrictions in order to keep these areas protected for the enjoyment of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and visitors to our province now and in the future." The minister also noted that enforcement officers from the departments of Natural Resources and Environment and Conservation have been conducting winter patrols of the areas. Officers are checking for entry permits and reminding users they must carry a permit at all times while in the reserve. Entry permits for the Avalon and Bay du Nord Wilderness Reserves are mandatory and are available free of charge. Since January, charges are pending against 31 individuals who operated snowmobiles in the Avalon Wilderness Reserve. If convicted under the Wilderness and Ecological Reserves Act, these individuals may be subject to a fine not exceeding $5,000 and not less than $200 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 60 days. For more information on entry permits or activities permitted within reserves, please call 709-635-4520 or e-mail parksinfo@gov.nl.ca .- 30 - Media contact: 2007 03 09 10:30 a.m.
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