While it may not seem like it now, as the cold lingers and temperatures drop to at or below freezing nightly, we are well into spring and it will be summer before you know it.

And with the warm spring and summer weather, East Kootenay residents head for the hills - literally. B.C. residents love to recreate - we love to hike and camp and fish and enjoy the beautiful outdoors.

The provincial government has a word of warning for those who like to get out on off-road vehicles - ripping around in the bush and harming Crown land is a crime.

The government has been implementing a framework of regulations for off road vehicles such as ATV's, dirt bikes and snowmobiles, since 2009. Off road vehicles now require a one-time registration with a licence plate. The license plate makes it easier for conservation officers and park rangers to identify vehicles not following the rules. New standards for mufflers minimize noise impact on wildlife and spark arresters reduce the risk of forest fires.

CO's will be targeting mud boggers this year. Violation tickets for mud bogging are $575, and other penalties may include towing or impoundment of vehicles, jail time and expenses related to habitat restoration.

The public are encouraged to report suspicious activities and environmental damage to the province's toll-free, 24 hour Report All Poachers and Polluters - RAPP line at 1-877-952-RAPP (7277) or from a cell phone *7277.

Under section 7 of the Wildlife Act, a person commits an offence if they alter, damage or destroy designated wildlife habitat and they receive an automatic court appearance. The Wildlife Act, the Motor Vehicle Act and the federal Fisheries Act can all be used to prosecute offenders who cause environment damage to Crown land.