New Trail Information Bulletin From ASRDI just received this information in an email. Please do your utmost to minimin your impact on the trails or if posible to postpone any trips you can until conditions improve.
Thanks,
Blair
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June 13, 2008
Wet weather heightens need for land stewardship
Saturated trails in southwestern foothills at risk
Edmonton... Due to recent heavy rains throughout much of southern Alberta, the Government of Alberta is recommending Albertans voluntarily refrain from motorized recreational use in the forest reserve south of the North Saskatchewan River to the north boundary of Waterton Lakes National Park.
Recent heavy rains and high water have saturated soils to a vulnerable and fragile state in much of the province. Albertans are encouraged to keep motorized vehicles, both off-highway vehicles (OHVs) and automobiles, away from stream banks, wetlands, and wet trails to allow soils to drain, stabilize, and recover. A single vehicle on a wet trail can cause more damage than many vehicles on a dry trail. Work completed by volunteers in the area is also at risk of being damaged by any vehicle use on saturated soils. These projects include new trailwork and work done on bank stabilization and water crossings.
Trails, roads, bridges, and popular camping locations may be impacted by the heavy rain and resulting flooding. Backcountry users are encouraged to support good stewardship practices, be aware of trail conditions, and be extra careful for their own personal safety.
Please travel cautiously and respect any local trail and road closures. Albertans can learn more Respect the Land tips at
http://srd.alberta.ca/lands/usingpublicland/recreation/headingout.aspx - 30 -
Media enquiries may be directed to:
Rick Blackwood
Area Manager, Southern Rockies Area
Sustainable Resource Development
403-297-8806 Eilish Lemieux
Communications
Sustainable Resource Development
780-427-8636
To call toll-free within Alberta dial 310-0000.