ATV use in Alberta lakes and rivers illegal, province reminds riders
Fines of up to $25,000 possible for offenders
Provincial wildlife experts want people to keep quads and four-by-four vehicles out of Alberta's lakes and rivers — especially this long weekend.
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They say unseasonably warm and dry weather has river levels low, which raises the potential for damage to aquatic ecosystems.
It's also illegal to drive a motorized vehicle in a natural waterway, and could come with fines up to $25,000.
"While motorized vehicle users may think it is fun to drive their motorized vehicle into a river, lake or stream, it can be harmful to the environment, the fish and the pocketbook," said the province in a release.
Offenders can be reported by calling the environment hotline at 1-800-222-6514 or by contacting local police.
In an effort to drive home the message, the province released a video of ATV users ripping through provincial waterways and why it's a concern.