Albertans heading into the great outdoors for the May long weekend will have to watch their campfires closely if they want to avoid being fined.
The province has introduced a new penalty of $287 for leaving a campfire unattended and anyone who starts a wildfire can be fined up to $100,000.
READ MORE: Alberta hopes increased fines will help bolster wildfire prevention
Also starting this week, users of off-highway vehicles on Crown land can be fined up to $155 for not wearing an approved helmet.
It’s all part of a move by government to protect its green spaces by enforcing rules in parks, on public land and in protected areas.
READ MORE: Camping in Alberta over May long weekend? Here’s what you need to know
Users of off-highway vehicles are being reminded they must stay on marked trails to avoid eroding river banks and destroying natural vegetation.
READ MORE: Riders question whether Alberta’s new helmet law goes far enough
They’re also being told that “mud-bogging” – or spinning wheels in muddy areas – can damage the landscape for good.
The province says more than 300 fish and wildlife officers, conservation officers and seasonal park rangers will be on patrol this summer.
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