Open letter to Environment Minister Currie Dixon:
Shortly after your appointment to cabinet, I wrote expressing my concern for the unchecked use and abuse of off-road vehicles and the resulting negative effects on our wilderness and wildlife. Since then, I have heard little on any progress being made on this file.
The problems persist to date and promise only to grow worse if government does not live up to its promise to make the issue a priority. As well, large numbers of Yukon citizens who expressed their wish to have checks and balances placed on off-road vehicles use through timely legislation are still waiting for some level of satisfaction.
All Yukoners deserve to enjoy their surroundings in a fashion that suits them, and for many this means outdoor experiences free from the effects of machinery. Needless to say, populations of wildlife and their habitat currently suffering degradation due to off-road vehicle use also require protection and relief from their stress, a duty you and your colleagues are tasked with.
Rest assured, I am not advocating the elimination of off-road vehicles, only a reasonable regulation that will better serve all citizens, our lands, and the plants and animals that share it with us. Kindly inform me of any progress made in this regard.
Wolf Riedl
Haines Junction