FREDERICTON, N.B. – Anyone riding an all-terrain vehicle on a managed trail in New Brunswick will be required to display a permit starting Jan. 1, 2013.
The mandatory trail permit program is the result of a partnership between the provincial government and the New Brunswick All-Terrain Vehicle Federation.
"The federation has been an excellent partner in this process, and we thank it for its continued good work on behalf of its members and the province," said Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Robert Trevors. “Making trail permits mandatory ensures that users pay the cost of trail development and maintenance, which is only fair."
Under the Off Road Vehicle Act, anyone caught riding on a managed trail without a permit will be fined $172.50.
Managed trails are located where written landowner consent has been obtained by one of the province's two motorized trail managers – the New Brunswick All-Terrain Vehicle Federation and the New Brunswick Federation of Snowmobile Clubs – and where appropriate signage has been erected.
On Crown land, the Department of Natural Resources authorizes the New Brunswick All-Terrain Vehicle Federation or the New Brunswick Federation of Snowmobile Clubs to manage activities associated with these uses.
On provincial highways and roads, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure authorizes the New Brunswick All-Terrain Vehicle Federation or the New Brunswick Federation of Snowmobile Clubs to manage activities associated with these uses.
"This agreement is in keeping with the commitment made by our government to support the continued development of trails for use by the two federations,'' said Natural Resources Minister Bruce Northrup. "The Department of Natural Resources is pleased to support our partners at the Department of Public Safety in assisting the New Brunswick All-Terrain Vehicle Federation and its members in the development of the all-terrain vehicle trail system.''
Sales of the permits will help fund the development and maintenance of managed all-terrain vehicle trails. Permits for 2013 will consist of a three-season permit at a cost of $25 and an annual permit at a cost of $75, which can be obtained through local all-terrain vehicle clubs. Maps of managed trails can be found on the New Brunswick All-Terrain Vehicle Federation website at http://nbatving.com/.
"We believe an enhanced trail system will boost New Brunswick's tourism potential, attracting riders from throughout Canada and the northeastern United States to enjoy our beautiful natural spaces," said Daniel Boucher, president of the New Brunswick All-Terrain Vehicle Federation. “We believe this is an excellent first step toward a better, safer and more sustainable managed trail network."
More information is also available on the Department of Public Safety Website at http://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/public_safety.html.
