People contemplating snowmobiling in the Purcell Mountains should first check out where there are Mountain Caribou closures to save themselves a major fine.

The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (COs) announced on Facebook today it will be conducting enforcement patrols this winter to protect mountain caribou.

“The high country of B.C.’s Interior Wet Belt provides treed areas amongst large open areas, which are ideal for Mountain Caribou as well as various types of snowmobiling and backcountry recreation. The presence of snowmobilers affects Mountain Caribou, as it may cause caribou to move into less suitable habitat where foraging is not as efficient or where steeper terrain may cause avalanche hazards.

“The unnecessary movement of caribou may also deplete their energy reserves during critical times,” the COs stated on Facebook, adding, “Packed trails may provide easier access for predators to move into caribou areas.”

In British Columbia, approximately one million hectares of Crown land has been closed to snowmobile use to support Mountain Caribou recovery in the Thompson, Kootenays, Cariboo, Omineca and Peace Regions.

COS said they will be conducting patrols to ensure snowmobiles are not being used in closed areas.

Operators of snowmobiles in closed can face fines under the BC Wildlife Act of up to $50,000 upon conviction.

Information on Mountain Caribou closures can be found HERE.

Lead image from BC Conservation Officer Service

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