Alberta hopes bridge over Waiparous Creek will strike balance

A bridge is being built across Waiparous Creek in southern Alberta to help protect a vulnerable fish population while still allowing all-terrain vehiclesto usethe area.

It's a popular spot for thousands of quadders and dirt bikers on May long weekend alonebut not all are respectful of the rules.

The Waiparous Valley Roadabout 45 minutes northwest of Cochranetakes you to a forested area with tents, trailers and motorhomes dotting the trail next to Waiparous Creek. Also there,a whole lot of off-highwayvehicles.

Curt Whachell says his friends briefed him on the rules.

"It's my first time here and I'm amazed," Whachell said.

"Stay on the trails, and you can cross the creek, but no riding up and down it."

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He says it was disappointing to catch others disobeying those rules.

"We saw some people driving their jeeps down the river which we though was unnecessaryright, but some people just do whatever they want."

Once the province builds the bridge across Waiparous Creek, it will be the only place to cross, says Garry Salekin of the Alberta Off-Highway Vehicle Association.

"Once they get educated they'll use it cause there will be stiff fines," Salekin said.

He saidthere could be as many as 10,000 people in the area May long weekend. Most will obey the rules, but some won't.

"Some are crossing all over, they've got to be educatedand that's what I think they'll do this weekend, like Fish and Wildlife and the RCMP," Salekin said.

"They'll educate the people."

The province has put the bridge out for tender and it's expected to be completed by the fall.

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