The Manitoba Wildfire Service will enforce a full ban on motorized backcountry travel in several regions starting at 8 a.m. on Friday, May 9.
As hot, dry conditions continue to elevate wildfire danger, the restrictions will apply to Areas 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 8, including provincial parks such as Whiteshell, Spruce Woods, Birds Hill, and Beaudry. Affected areas stretch from southeastern Manitoba to the Interlake region and extend to the Ontario border.
Under Level 1 fire and travel restrictions:
- All motorized backcountry travel, including ATVs, is prohibited at all times.
- Fires are banned between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., except in approved fire pits.
- Travel to remote cottages via trails or forestry roads requires a permit.
- Burn permits in the eastern and Interlake regions are cancelled until further notice.
A map of the impacted areas subject to the fire and travel restrictions can be found online.
Essential agricultural or industrial burns may still be considered with strict conditions and site inspections. Residents are urged to check with local municipalities for additional restrictions, as many have implemented their own fire bans.
Violations of these rules could lead to prosecution under the Manitoba Wildfires Act, with fines up to $100,000.
