"We must all respect the boundaries in place to protect the land" says DEFA
Off-road motorcyclists are being urged to stick to legal routes, and respect boundaries, after reports of criminal damage in the Manx uplands.
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture says it has concerns over ‘enduro-type’ motorcycles straying off designated green lanes and causing harm to protected habitats.
This includes damage to restored peatlands and plantations.
Minister Clare Barber said: "These incidents cause environmental harm and put the livelihoods of upland grazing tenants at risk.
"We must all respect the boundaries in place to protect the land, wildlife, and the safety of livestock – so I urge everyone to stay on designated routes and use the proper access points.
"We are committed to enforcing the law and dealing with those who flout it.”
Failure to stay on legal routes contravenes the Road Traffic Act and the Forestry Act 1984.