Officials with the Ministry of Natural Resources clarified this week that snowmobilers who are repeatedly caught in non-motorized zones in Whistler's watershed areas could face fines of up to $1,000.

Officials previously told The Question that violators would receive verbal warnings.

On the first offence, officials will issue verbal warnings as to help users understand the impact of motorized vehicles in the watershed, said David Currie, ministry spokesperson.

But if snowmobilers do not comply and are found to be operating in unauthorized zones they will face a $1,000 fine under section 59 of the Land Act for trespassing on Crown Land, he added.

Signs are in place to educate and inform users of possible damage to the watershed and to deter them from the possible damage their machines may cause to the watershed.

Currie said the ministry wants to assure backcountry users that the first obligation is to create public awareness and education in areas that are vital to the health of lakes and rivers within the watershed.