Provincial police are asking for the public's help identifying those who rode ATVs and Jeeps through a protected forested area southwest of London, causing damage and distressing wildlife.
Over the past couple of days, someone cut down wire fences around the Mosa Forest, also known as Skunk’s Misery, near Wardsville, and trespassed onto the 300 acres of property with motorized vehicles.
Middlesex OPP say the ATVs and Jeeps caused a great deal of damage to the forest floor. They also panicked the wildlife in the forest.
Mosa Forest (Photo courtesy of the OPP)
The Mosa Forest, which is owned by the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority, is considered an area of natural and scientific interest and is home to several at risk species. It is one of the largest Carolinian Forests in southwestern Ontario.
To prevent trespassing or vandalism in the future, the conservation authority has teamed up with OPP and the Municipal Enforcement Unit to keep a closer watch over the wooded area.
Police say the illegal activity deprives area residents of the lawful use and enjoyment of the forest. They are asking anyone with information about this incident to come forward or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).