Rule-breakers beware: Park rangers can issue fines of up to $100 for your first offense.
 / WNWO newsfile
TOLEDO -- Rude behavior and rule breakers are forcing rangers at Metroparks of Toledo to step up their enforcement on 148 miles of trails.
"We have rules and regulations, but what's most important on the trails is common courtesy," said Joe Fausnaugh, chief ranger for Metroparks of the Toledo Area.
Cyclists, dog walkers and runners are apparenty crowding other trail users off the paths. Rangers say they're concentrating their crackdown on all-purpose trails.
The biggest problem reported is people not staying on their side of the trails.
"The bottom line is that everyone has a right to use the trails," Fausnaugh said. "We want everyone from bird watchers to joggers and bicyclists to have a pleasant experience. We can't allow inconsiderate visitors to interfere with others' enjoyment of the parks, especially when there are safety considerations."
According to the Metroparks rules and regulations, a violator can be fined up to $100 for a first offense and up to $500 for each subsequent offense.