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CITY, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) The Office of the State Engineer will begin enforcing new rule changes regarding vehicle usage on sovereign lands beginning July 1. Signs have been posted at several access points along the Missouri River, making the public and riparian owners aware that all recreational vehicular use on the river’s beaches and sandbars is prohibited.

People who own land adjacent to navigable waters, or the person’s authorized agent, will now be included in the law changes and will receive no special privileges regarding recreational vehicle use on sovereign lands. Motorized vehicle use for permitted or authorized activities, including ag-related uses, are however, still exempt.

Sovereign Lands Manager, Jerry Heiser says, “The rule change was necessary to ensure that any legitimate need to operate motorized vehicles on sovereign lands is preserved while at the same time maintaining the function and integrity of these public lands.” 

People using beaches and sandbars are being asked to please obey the new laws and comply with the posted signs in all areas. Recreational vehicular use is strictly prohibited on all sovereign lands. The fine for driving an ATV or any vehicle in these areas carries a maximum penalty of $100.