Parkland County supports safe snowmobiling
Springham Rally 2010
Having fun safely was a key message shared by Parkland County’s Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Unit at the Trail Seekers Snowmobile Club rally held February 6th at the Jack Pine Grazing Reserve. Jason Springham, OHV officer, was invited to attend the rally and share information regarding Parkland County’s OHV bylaw and best practices for safe operation of off highway vehicles.
“Parkland County really appreciated the invitation to be part of this event,” said Springham. “It was a great opportunity for the County and Trail Seekers to work together and help promote safe and responsible riding.”
Springham’s presentation included an overview of Parkland County’s OHV Bylaw 38- 2008, including required documentation such as registration and insurance, restricted age, and helmet requirements. Springham also fielded a number of questions regarding OHV use on provincial highways, County roads, and riding on private property.
Although there was no active enforcement during the event, all riders were required to comply with the Parkland County OHV Bylaw 38-2008 as well possess as an Alberta Snowmobile Association trail pass in order to participate. Underage riders with smaller machines were not permitted on the trail and were supervised on a closed course.
“Overall, this was a very positive event,” said Springham. “This particular trail system is marked to guide riders and provides for safe, enjoyable riding.”
The Off-Highway officer position was implemented in May 2009 as one of the recommendations from the Off-Highway Vehicle Committee. Since inception, the OHV Officer has been focusing on targeted enforcement and public education.
Parkland County first passed a bylaw regulating OHV use in 1993, with subsequent bylaws passed in 2003. In 2008, Parkland County Council passed the new OHV Bylaw 38-2008, which included increased fines for offences under the bylaw and changed the minimum age of OHV operators from 14 to 16 years of age and possessing a valid Class 5 Operator’s License. For more information on the OHV Bylaw 38-2008, visit the Parkland County website at www.parklandcounty.com or contact Parkland County Enforcement Services at 780-968-8400.
