Whitehorse considering updates to snowmobile bylaws

When your snowmobile bylaws still refer to “motor toboggans” it’s probably a good idea to give them a second look. According to a story in the Globe and Mail, the City of Whitehorse (in northwestern Canada) plans to do just that.

Whitehorse Mayor Bev Buckway says the misuse of snowmobiles have become an issue in the city, but finding a solution will not be easy. She quotes a survey that says 73 percent of respondents wish to limit the use of snowmobiles in residential areas, while 72 percent would like to have designated trails within the city.

City council in considering recommendations calling for new trail development while imposing penalties on those who operate snowmobiles off-trails.

Additionally, protection of environmentally sensitive areas has also been raised as an issue.

Dave Pruden, manager of bylaw services, said protection of environmentally sensitive areas has been raised as an issue.

“There are certain other areas that may not be environmentally sensitive, but we do live in the North and vegetation does have a tough time growing in certain areas so we do want to make sure that other areas don’t become damaged due to snowmobile use,” says Dave Pruden, manager of bylaw services.