Iqaluit pledges action on errant ATV owners

City officials are fed up with off-road vehicles chewing up the tundra in and around Iqaluit and are vowing to crack down on drivers who veer off the trail.

In a news release, city staff said off-road vehicle drivers were flouting a “no ATVs” sign in Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park, disturbing migrating swans.

Other areas of concern include Rotary Park, the West 40, and green spaces near Aqsaarnit Middle School and Joamie School.

“You can see the off-road tracks by snow machines, four-wheelers and larger tucks… all over the tundra and marshlands,” said city planner Arif Sayani in a statement.

“The main purpose of setting aside parkland is to preserve the beauty of the land in its natural state.”

Kevin Sloboda, Iqaluit’s chief municipal enforcement officer, said bylaw will step up enforcement of the city’s ATV bylaw.

He said the bylaw allows officers to seize machines, and violators can be fined up to $500.

The city says it will review existing ATV rules and launch a consultation with ATV users and Nunavut Parks officials.

The result could include designated trails or areas for off-road vehicles.