I just finished speaking to Gimli mayor and council, seeking permission to install permanent barricades to protect the snakes.

They listened very respectfully and appreciated my presentation, saying it gave them a lot of useful information.

The mayor says the next step is for council to consult with Gimli Public Works, safety experts, ATV associations and other stakeholders to get their input on my proposal. That makes sense and I have offered to meet with any of these to be of as much help as I can.

The mayor noted that this public engagement process will take some time.

But hopefully, it will result in a plan that is a win-win all around, especially for the snakes. And hopefully that plan will come in time to protect the snakes this spring when they emerge from hibernation.

Fingers crossed!