The M.D. of Bonnyville is reviewing trail safety concerns around Moose Lake as officials look at possible signage updates and future bylaw changes tied to shared-use pathways.

During the May 12 council meeting, Director of Public Safety Luis Gandolfi provided council with an overview of the municipality’s growing trail network and increasing concerns involving trail usage.

The M.D.’s paved trail system around Moose Lake now stretches more than 20 kilometres and connects several recreation areas, campgrounds and residential communities.

“As use increases, we’re seeing more interaction between different types of users,” Gandolfi told council. “Our focus is on helping keep the trail safe and comfortable for everyone.”

The discussion focused heavily on e-bikes, off-highway vehicles and trail etiquette.

Gandolfi explained Alberta already has provincial rules governing standard e-bikes, including speed limits and safety requirements, but said concerns are emerging around more powerful electric dirt bikes appearing on trails.

“We’re starting to see high-powered electric dirt bikes,” he said. “They’re actually quite powerful.”

He added one issue is that the quieter electric vehicles can be difficult for pedestrians to hear approaching.

Council also raised questions about snowmobiles, side-by-sides and golf carts using paved pathways.

Councillor Caroline Palmer asked whether public safety staff were receiving complaints about motorized vehicles operating where they should not be.

Gandolfi confirmed complaints do occur periodically and said updated signage is being prepared to help clarify expectations.

“One of the issues that’s been identified is signage,” he said. “Public safety will be working with parks to review and update trail signage so expectations are clearer for everyone.”

The municipality plans to focus primarily on education and voluntary compliance rather than enforcement.

“Our approach will continue to be education first,” Gandolfi said.

Council was also invited to provide feedback ahead of a planned review of the municipality’s consolidated public safety bylaw later this year.