With snowpack in the Lake Tahoe Basin at low levels and in anticipation of a busy holiday weekend, the U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is warning snowmobilers they will be fined if they operate their sleds in areas with inadequate snow.

“Snowmobile operators should avoid bare dirt and patchy snow and should not ride across streams or over small trees or brush. Operating snowmobiles on too little snow creates ruts in the soil and crushes vegetation,” the USFS said.

Causing resource damage can result in a citation punishable by a fine of $5,000 or more and/or six months in jail.

Information on areas where snowmobiles are allowed is available in the online Snowmobile Guide.