Municipal District of Bonnyville
Media Release
Trail destruction at Muriel Lake M.D. Park must stop
January 22, 2021 – Parks, Recreation & Culture staff were disheartened to find the set cross-country ski trails at the Muriel Lake M.D. Park had been destroyed by snowmobiles this week – less than 24 hours after they had been groomed and set.
Off-highway vehicles (OHVs) — including quads and snowmobiles — are not permitted in the park, as per Bylaw 1624. The minimum fine is $200, but fines could increase to $600, based on the number of violations observed. M.D. Peace Officers can also impound OHVs if it’s found the operators have violated the bylaw.
This is the second time this season the M.D. has received a complaint about the destruction of the trails.
“It’s frustrating for sure,” said Manager of Parks, Recreation & Culture, Rodney Guilbault. “It’s also creating dangerous conditions for the skiers that use the trails. We want to make sure the park is an enjoyable and safe place for skiers, hikers and bikers.”
Peace Officers will be increasing patrols around the park in an attempt to deter OHV users, and to hand out fines. Parks staff will be installing more signs letting users know OHVs are not permitted in the park, and will also be setting up some barricades around the perimeter.
To report an OHV inside the park, please call the Public Safety Department at 780-812-3332. To report unsafe trail conditions, please call the Parks, Recreation & Culture Department at 780-826-3171.