Leaving camper earns fine

A Thunder Bay man was fined $750 for leaving his camper on Crown land.
Peter E. Black, 41, pleaded guilty to illegally depositing material without the consent of the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Court heard Black left his truck camper by Trout Lake Road, near Northern Light Lake, from May to October this year despite warnings from a Thunder Bay District conservation officer that he was past his 21-day limit.
The officer kept a record of how long the camper was there.
It was not the first time the vehicle had been left at that location. It was there the previous winter, but the officer had not been able to trace the owner.
Justice of the Peace Marcel Donio heard the case Dec. 6 in Thunder Bay.
The ministry reminds the public that it is illegal to leave camping units, including tents, trailers, and truck campers, as well as semi-permanent structures such as moose hunt camps, on Crown land for more than 21 days in the same location.
The Crown land that is available to the public for recreational activities, such as hiking, camping, canoeing, hunting, and fishing, is a provincial treasure. It is ours to use wisely and protect for future generations.
To report a natural resources violation, call toll-free 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) any time or contact your local MNR office during regular business hours.
You also can call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).