by Karina Hunter

Might this become a not so common sight in Manitouwadge?

The Township of Manitouwadge held a meeting Wednesday, as part of their ongoing review of by-laws pertaining to the safe operation of off road vehicles within municipality limits.  Snowmobiles, ATV’s, and golf carts are some of the vehicles currently sharing use of most streets in Manitouwadge however concerns have been raised as to the adequacy of signage, promotion and enforcement of the by-laws allowing this access. Manitou Sno-Drifters executive, Ontario Provincial Police, Economic Development, and recently formed group, MOE (Manitouwadge Outdoor Enthusiasts) were invited to sit in on the meeting, intended to bring the groups up-to-date and discuss the results of a public interest survey which had recently been circulated by the township regarding the aforementioned concerns and possible amendments of the by-laws. 

Township Deputy Clerk and Director of Leisure Services, Randy Mattson stressed that the intent is not to ban snow machines or ATV’s within the township but rather to ensure that proper measures are in place for the safe operation of these that they may continue to share access. Mattson explained that to keep the process moving forward in a productive manner, the township believed it was best, at this time, to involve those groups that represented or dealt with various components of the existing by-law. Subsequent meetings will be held to further review ideas and solutions.  Any persons wishing to submit comments at this time are asked to do so in writing.  Submissions should be addressed to

Township of Manitouwadge
Attention: Off Road By-Law Amendments
1 Mississauga Drive
Manitouwadge, ON P0T 2C0

Submitted to Chronicle Journal & The Echo 07.19.09

Published in Chronicle Journal Page A3 07.23.09

Here is the letter I have sent to the township stating my opinion regarding any possible amendments to the by-law. I encourage you, wether you are for or against any amendments, to write to the township, without our feedback it is impossible to expect those making decisions to properly represent us. Letter to Township of Manitouwadge regarding snowmobile_ATV by-law amendments(Click to download/view PDF).

 A good website if you are interested in information on ATV & Snowmobile vacations in Northern Ontario is www.algomasledtours.com tell Bob Collins that I sent you!