There has been a 31 per cent rise in park usage within the City of Kamloops this year.

Parks manager Jeff Putnam says that’s great news, but does come with concerns.

He says many people have been going off trails into unauthorized areas, which he says damages ecosystems and can be a safety hazard.

“There’s been a lot of real benefits for getting people outdoors and getting exercise. But on the other side there’s also been challenges with waste removal and trail maintenance and that type of thing for our staff. So we’re working hard and we’re happy that people are getting out and enjoying our nature areas.”

Putnam reminds people to follow signage at all times with local parks.