A complete ban on recreational ATV and UTV use has been put into effect in Lac Ste. Anne County as of Friday, April 26, due to the current extreme fire hazard rating.
Experts say the combination of low precipitation, high winds, and warm temperatures has left grass and light-leafy vegetation in all regions of the county extremely dry and vulnerable to ignition from exhaust systems on ATVs and UTVs. Officials say tall grasses and crop residue along trail systems and wildland areas can often ignite from direct contact with exhaust pipes and sparks from mufflers and piping from these types of vehicles.
Officials note that this ban does not apply to required agricultural and industrial-operated ATVs and UTVs, however, extreme caution and continuous monitoring are advised.
Lac Ste. Anne County Fire Services are reminding residents to dial 911 if they see smoke or a wildfire and to provide as accurate a location as possible in order to assist Fire Services personnel in extinguishing these fires promptly
More information can be found on the Lac Ste. Anne County website, the County Fire Services webpage or by contacting the Lac Ste. Anne Fire Services department at 1-866-880-5722 or 780-785-3411.