Vandalism, fires, prompt winter closure for conservation area

The two vehicular access points to the Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority's Mark's Bay conservation area are closed off as of November 1 and will remain closed until April 30.

The decision to close off vehicular access comes after an increase in incidents of vandalism in the area, said Rhonda Bateman, Conservation Authority general manager, speaking to SooToday.

Vehicular access to the Mark's Bay conservation area will be once again available after April 30.

"There has been illegal harvesting of trees on the property, a great deal of damage done to the forest and roadways, tearing down and burning of our signs and posts and cutting down trees to be used in fires on site," Bateman said.

"Camping, fires, hunting, motorized vehicles and alcohol, all of those things are restricted." 

"The concern is not just for us, it's for the neighbouring property owners as well, especially in the case of fire, because the Pointe Aux Pins neighbourhood is right there and they continue to have concerns," Bateman said. 

Anyone needing more information regarding the November to April vehicular access closure may contact SSMRCA General Manager Rhonda Bateman at 705-946-8530, extension 205, by email at [email protected] or go to the SSMRCA website