Published Wednesday September 29th, 2010 in the Moncton Times & Transcript

FREDERICTON - The New Brunswick All Terrain Vehicle Federation Inc. has been charged in Caraquet provincial court with a violation of the Clean Water Act. The Department of Environment alleges that, between Oct. 7 and Oct. 29, 2009, the federation undertook a wetland alteration near Inkerman, between Tracadie-Sheila and Shippagan, without having obtained a permit issued by the minister of environment. The federation, based in Hanwell, just west of Fredericton, is scheduled to make its first appearance in court on Oct. 5, according to a government press release.

Jacques Poirier, general manager of the federation, said they have been advised to plead not guilty.

A spokesperson for the department said the government couldn't add any information until the charges are resolved.

On September 21, 2010, Federation President Daniel Boucher attended a meeting in Fredericton of Operation Lifesaver.

The purpose of the meeting was to prepare the 2011 education campaign in New Brunswick.

The goal of Operation Lifesaver is to prevent collisions between trains and motor vehicles. They also work to prevent trespassing incidents that lead to serious injury or death.

Also in attendance were representatives from Safety Services NB, the RCMP, Transport Canada, and NB Southern Railway.

On September 21, 2010, Federation President Daniel Boucher and General Manager Jacques Poirier attended a meeting in Fredericton with representatives from the Department of Natural Resources.

The purpose of the meeting was to prepare the public meeting in Saint-Quentin to be held the next day on trails joint-use.

On September 20, 2010, Federation General Manager Jacques Poirier met in MacDougall Settlement with representatives from Codiac Printing to discuss our needs for the 2010-11 ATV trail passes.

On Sunday September 19, 2010, Federation Board of Directors met in Fredericton. In addition to normal business topics, the Board also discussed:

• ATV Trail Permits for 2011

The same ATV Trail Permits system will be in place in 2011 with:

1. Annual 4 seasons Permit: Defined by ATV trails accessible 12 months of the year = $75
   
2. Summer 3 seasons Permit: Defined by the period or time of year/season where an ATV trail is accessible without grooming the snow or removal of the snow to make it accessible = $25
   
3. Youth model for any seasons Permit = $20
   
4. Daily Permit = $15
   
5. Weekly Permit = $25

• AGM

Beginning with the next Annual General Meeting set for April 2011 the AGM will be extended to a two-day event.  The AGM will include workshops and other sessions on issues of importance to Clubs and their delegates.  Two main topics that will be discussed during the meeting will be trail development and safety. The Federation will also host an open session, to provide delegates an opportunity to raise important issues for discussion.