Three campers and a dog-walker have court dates after hiking into areas of Jasper National Park closed for caribou conservation.

Parks Canada law enforcement staff responded to two separate incidents on the same day, according to media spokespeople for Jasper National Park. 

On the afternoon of February 19, 2024, park wardens were notified of three hikers who had entered the seasonal caribou closure in the Tonquin Valley. They had entered the area via Portal Creek, off of the Marmot Basin Road.

“Park wardens located the group early the next morning and escorted them out of the closed area,” a spokesperson said. “Each individual was issued an appearance notice to appear in court with multiple offences under the Canada National Parks Act.”

In the second incident, on the afternoon of February 19, a park warden observed two off-leash dogs running out of the seasonal caribou area closure at Cavell Road. Shortly thereafter, the pets were followed by their owner. This individual was issued an appearance notice to appear in court with offences under the National Parks General Regulations and the National Parks of Canada Domestic Animals Regulations, Parks Canada said.

“Seasonal closures are one way Parks Canada is protecting caribou populations in Jasper National Park and are in place each winter from November 1 to May 15. Protected areas like national parks are key for caribou recovery.”

Parks Canada reminds the public that failure to follow closures could result in penalties and criminal charges. 

The park users have court dates in May.

“Visitors can plan ahead by researching their route and identifying alternatives in advance, checking the important bulletins webpage and obtaining all relevant permits,” the agency said in a statement.

Main access points to areas that are closed are clearly gated and signed by Parks Canada. 

Members of the public who see concerning activity are encouraged to record and report details 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.

Bob Covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com