A Jasper National Park visitor has been charged by law enforcement personnel after entering an area closed for caribou conservation. 

On the afternoon of February 26, after receiving a public report, Parks Canada wardens tracked down a skier and a snowshoer who had ignored area closure signs on Jasper National Park’s Cavell Road, off of Highway 93A. 

“One individual was charged with an offence for disobeying signage on a roadway,” a statement explained.

This is the second such closure breach this winter. In December, three Ski Marmot Basin guests went past the ski hill area boundary into seasonal caribou closures west of the operation, toward Jasper National Park’s Tonquin Valley. 

“They attempted to come back into the hill boundaries, got turned around and stuck, had to call for help and climb back up with the help of ski patrollers,” a Parks Canada statement said. 

The group was issued one ticket for the ski hill boundary violation.

Seasonal closures in the Tonquin, Brazeau, and À la Pêche caribou ranges of Jasper National Park take effect on November 1 and access to these backcountry areas is prohibited until they reopen for recreation on May 16.

Parks Canada reminds the public that closing critical habitat for caribou in winter prevents the development of packed trails into high-elevation caribou habitat. 

“While Parks Canada clearly signs major access points to all closure areas, it is up to each visitor to seek out information and make well informed decisions before heading out,” a spokesperson said.

Important Parks Canada bulletins can be accessed here. 

Visitors and residents who witness concerning activity are encouraged to record and report them to Parks Canada Dispatch at 780-852-6155. 

“If safe to do so, take photos and record details of incidents including time of day, location, description and vehicle licence plates. For more information, review the Jasper National Park Regulations webpage,” a spokesperson said. 

Bob Covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com