Alberta Snowmobile AssociationAlberta Snowmobile Association . 2013 / 2014 Season Summary . ... 2014...

www.albertasnowmobile.ab.ca

www.altasnowmobile.ab.ca Alberta Snowmobile Association 2013 / 2014 Season Summary The past season was down a little, poor snow conditions early in the season, followed by extreme cold in February, made for an abbreviated season. We now host Canada’s second largest Snowmobile & Powersports show, are active participants in the Canadian Avalanche Centre, and our Safe Riders school program reached over 8,000 students so far this season. We continue to increase our member services, including improved insurance programs, discount programs with our corporate partners and increased participation at the national and international level.

ASA Snowmobile, ATV & Off-Road shows www.albertasnowmwobileshow.com Held in Edmonton, October 18, 19 and 20. The Edmonton show was very successful last year, with around 20,000 attendees and we ran our SAGM and Awards night in conjunction with the show weekend.

We also hosted, on behalf of the snowmobile manufacturers (ISMA) the annual snowmobile Spring Sneak Peek this year, in St. Albert. As proven show producers, ISMA contracted us to produce this show for them. We are also adding a show in Calgary this coming season. November 1 and 2 at Spruce Meadows, in conjunction with the ski and snow show. Environment Month – Snowmobilers care about the Environment Campaign – February 2014 Articles in the SnoRiders Magazine (Alberta), News Release will be sent out in January, Province wide radio campaign for February through Skywords media and secondary radio coverage through Corus Radio Network (Alberta), Artwork is used on correspondence and e-mail . Snowmobile Safety Week - January 2014 Articles in SnoRiders West, News Releases sent out, Province wide Radio campaign for January through Skywords media (Alberta). Safety Week Ride held with local law enforcement, government, and media at one of the ASA clubs.

SAFE RIDERS Program Last season our school program, presenting the provincial RIDE WITH RESPECT curriculum, reached around 8,000 students, bringing the message of safe, all season off highway riding to Alberta students. This season, with funding again coming from the Alberta Government and our corporate sponsors, we will again have our instructors across Alberta bringing this much needed safety program to our schools and community groups. We also launched a new website for the program, at www.albertasaferiders.com

http://www.albertasnowmobile.ab.ca/

http://www.altasnowmobile.ab.ca/

http://www.albertasaferiders.com/

www.albertasnowmobile.ab.ca

-2- The ASA has again stepped up its participation with the Canadian Avalanche Centre this year, participating in many seminars, groups’ studies and the recent Sledcom advisory committee for the centre. We provide free trade show spaces to the Centre, free club outreach, free public outreach space for presentations in major centres and equipment (truck and trailer) for an avalanche safety instructor in Alberta.

This year, for the second year in a row, we are sponsoring large, illuminated Billboards on the major Alberta Highways that lead into BC, to bring the avalanche safety message to non-organized sledders who are heading that direction. Our goal is to lead them to the CAC website, where they can check the avalanche conditions and read about safety courses, equipment and materials.

SledNSnap.com Working with corporate partner Flaman Trailers, The ASA, along with the associations in Saskatchewan, Manitoba (Snoman) and North Dakota, launched SlednSnap at the Edmonton Snowmobile & ATV show. Participants post photos of sleds in various categories and the winners can win a new Trailer from Flaman, and Trail Passes/memberships from the Associations. CCSO – We are proud and active participants at the National level. We attend all meetings and national events, including a parliament hill reception and CCSO ride in PEI this season. Western Chapter – We are active participants in the Western Chapter, via email and annual meeting. IASA – We are active participants in the Administrators Association, with Chris as co-chair. CLUBS – The ASA trail/club programs returned over $268,270 to the ASA clubs this season for trail work, constructions and grooming activities. To date we have around 5000 trail passes returned to the office from the clubs this season, with close to 6,500 km of managed trail. Passes continue to come into the office through the next month so membership numbers will continue to grow. Lyle Birnie, President Chris Brookes, Executive Director

http://www.albertasnowmobile.ab.ca/

Box 21059 Thunder Bay, ON, Canada P7A 8A7 Tel: 807-345-5299 Email :[email protected]

June 2014

Re: Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO) CCSO Strategic Plan - The CCSO Board of Directors shelved the existing 5-year plan at the November 2013 national board meeting in Ottawa and agreed on a new focused strategic direction. The top 3 priorities for the CCSO Executive Committee are now: Legislation, Recognition and Funding. With this focus the Executive completed a number of events over the winter.

A meeting in central Canada to discuss strategic planning and next steps in Ottawa with the CCSO Executive Committee, OFSC, FCMQ, NBFSC and SSA – Completed on December 17, 2013.

Coordinate a social event in Ottawa. Completed March 25, 2014 with over 60 guests in attendance from Senators to MPs and Ministers and some of their staff. Very positive feedback to date on the way that we showcased snowmobiling in Canada.

Arrange a strategic planning session with the full board in PEI with a report for the June ISC meetings. The report is an agenda item for the upcoming meeting.

Attend key events to raise CCSO awareness and respect – Update: The most recent event was in Fredericton, NB with Prime Minister Stephen Harper in attendance. CCSO President Dale Hickox and NBFSC Executive Director Ross Antworth attended the event and had a discussion on snowmobiling in Canada. President Dale also had the opportunity to express our thanks for the $10 million trail improvement dollars announced in the recent budget of February 11, 2014. We believe that the CCSO is seen as a trusted and valued partner with the Federal Government.

National Trails Coalition (NTC) – The CCSO Board has 2 directors for the NTC national trails organization – CCSO Sec. /Treasurer Brenda Welsh and Executive Director Dennis Burns. The recent Federal Budget of February 11, 2014 confirmed that the NTC will be granted $10 million dollars for snowmobile and recreational trails over the next 2 years. This is Part 2 of the Economic Action Plan which originally committed $25 million dollars towards projects at 50 cent dollars. Part 1 saw the completion of 474 projects at over $57 million dollars. This newly-announced Part 2 funding is estimated to create 100 plus projects at over $20 million dollars in total project value. The members of the coalition with 2 directors each are: 1. The CCSO: representing winter motorized 2. The Canadian Off-Highway Vehicles (COHV): representing summer motorized 3. The Canadian Trails Federation (CTF): representing the non-motorized trail groups. The contract is currently in negotiations with the Federal Ministry of Infrastructure Canada. Our teams worked very well with round 1 so this is great news. We are anticipating that the contract will be completed mid June followed by a national call for projects as soon as the contract details can be released.

CCSO/CCOM Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations Conseil Canadien des Organismes Motoneiges

A volunteer led, not-for-profit national organization which through strong leadership provides support

to our members and provides the unified voice of organized snowmobiling at the national and

international levels.

Environment Canada – a draft 5-year strategy for the Woodlands Caribou Recovery Plan for British Columbia and Alberta was reviewed with comments submitted to Ottawa by March 18, 2014. A professor from the University of Alberta assisted the efforts of the CCSO, ASA and BCSF. We are now looking for their next steps – stay tuned as the environment movement continues to close riding areas and spread across Canada and the USA. The CCSO would also like to offer a special thank you to Fred Wiley for offering the expertise of Scott Jones in reviewing our response to the federal government as well. Sneak Peek Spring Shows - The CCSO, in partnership with its members, completed another successful tour with BRP, Polaris and Yamaha on the spring showcase of the 2015 snowmobile models. The same seven city venues are being secured as part of the preliminary development for next spring. Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) – The CCSO board members have been encouraged to identify their best tourism lodge, resort owners, rental agencies and tour guides and to get them signed into the CTC Signature Experience Program. The CTC budget has been cut from $110 million in 2010 to $57 million dollars this past year. With these cuts the CTC is leaving any marketing efforts to the USA to the provinces and are focusing their efforts to the top 8 world markets. The CTC will only work with those that are partnering with them and for the snowmobile trails to get any traction we require the best snowmobile operators, tour/rental companies to get identified on the CTC Signature Experience Program. Canadian Avalanche Centre (CAC) - A new executive director was hired in the Fall of 2013 – Gilles Valade. Gilles appears eager with new ideas on funding for the 3 organizations – Canadian Avalanche Foundation (the charity), Canadian Avalanche Association (the professional forecasters and AST Instructors) & CAC (the public information arm). At their recent AGM in Penticton, British Columbia in early May, the group is working to rebrand the CAC – the new name accepted by the membership is Avalanche Canada. CCSO Meeting Elections - During the spring meeting elections were held for the CCSO positions of President and 2nd VP. The new CCSO President is Dale Hickox from Prince Edward Island and the returning CCSO 2nd VP is Janet Riopel from Alberta. At the upcoming June meeting there will be an election for the position of CCSO 1st VP. National Event in Prince Edward Island - The CCSO Spring meeting was held in conjunction with the PEISA Three Day Snowmobile Ride as part of the “Creation of Our Nation” 150 year celebration of the Founding Fathers of Canada. In 1864 members travelled from what we now know as Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec and Ontario to discuss the formation of our great country we call Canada. With over 100 riders from Canada and the USA, PEI Snowmobile Association celebrated this historic event with the Premier of PEI and many of his Ministers joining the 3 day snowmobile tour of the entire province from tip to tip. We even had a number of visits from the “Founding Fathers” - Congratulations to PEISA on the huge success of this event. On behalf of the Board of Directors I would like to share a special thank you to our outgoing President Steven McLelan and 1st VP Mario Cote for their national contributions and years of dedication service.

Dale Hickox Dale Hickox CCSO President

2014 Colorado Snowmobile Program - Colorado Parks and Wildlife

Tom Metsa- OHV/Snowmobile Program Manager [email protected]

Gabrielle Smiley- Snowmobile Program Assistant [email protected]

History: Since 1977, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) (formally Colorado State Parks) and the Colorado Snowmobile Association have partnered to create statewide rider safety/ education programs and to groom and sign winter snowmobile trails.

General Snow Conditions: Colorado Started the season with great snow state wide, but about mid season the snow fall waned off a bit, especially in the southern and southwest parts of the state. Then as the season was coming to a close, we got several back to back storms and were back in business. Many clubs groomed well into April.

Capital Grants/Equipment: Colorado has 2773 miles of trails that are groomed by volunteer snowmobile clubs that operate under the Colorado Snowmobile Association umbrella. Clubs purchase their own snow cats, and are able to do so through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife capital grants program. Clubs who wish to participate in the competitive process must show Need and Urgency, Benefits, Partnership, and Leverage. Projects are scored and ranked by a subcommittee who represent snowmobile interests in the state and make project funding recommendations to the Parks and Wildlife Commission. The subcommittee is comprised of a Chair person who is appointed by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission, nine district Representatives; one each from the state’s nine snowmobile districts and two CPW Regional Trails Coordinators. In 2014 the Snowmobile Program received $468,500.00 in grant requests and was able to award $289,500.00. Five ‘newer’ used groomers were added to the fleet and the Colorado Snowmobile Association was awarded a $10,000.00 grant to help in their effort to host the 2014 International Snowmobile Congress.

Grooming Grants: In the 2013 - 2014 season, CPW committed $660,000 to grooming. Because the grooming season stretched into April, almost the entire allocation was used.

Sled Registrations: Colorado registered 28,023 snowmobiles and sold 4,161 non-resident use permits. Registrations are down from last year by approximately 2%: Both registration and use permits cost $30.25 with the .25 going to the Search and Rescue program, and are renewed annually.

Snow Patrol: Approximately $31,000 was spent on Law Enforcement in our most popular snowmobile areas. These funds pay for fuel, travel expenses, equipment, and repairs for CPW Rangers. This year 6 new Polaris 550’s were added to the CPW fleet giving us additional recourses for safety and education. Patrol information from 2013-2014:

• Patrol Time: 828 hours • Number of Contacts: 5634 • Number of Citations: 43 • Snow Patrol Miles: 10,025

Safety programs: Snowmobile safety program: We have 65 certified Snowmobile Safety instructors (mostly volunteers), and this year 147 students received training, 5 of whom are between the ages of 10 -14. Avalanche classes: CPW personnel provided 8 days of avalanche training for the snowmobiling public. WSTA: Winter Skill Training Academy is an intensive 3 days of training that train law enforcement officers and search and rescue personnel. This year WSTA trained 22 agency personnel.

mailto:[email protected]


Idaho Annual IASA Report

2013-2014

Program overview:

Idaho has twenty-nine county operated grooming programs that run 40 OSVs. Approximately 1/3 of the groomers are Pisten Bully, 1/3 Bombardier and 1/3 Tucker. Each Program runs a drag. We use both Mogul Masters and Maxeys. Several programs use renovators. The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) purchases the OSVs and Groomers with state gas tax and Recreation Trails Program (RTP) funding. The operation and maintenance costs are generated by the registration stickers required for snowmobile operation in Idaho. Each snowmobile owner designates the county program of their choice and IDPR distributes the funds to the designated county grooming program. The snowmobile registration fees that aren’t designated are administered by IDPR to pay for statewide catastrophic equipment failure and other statewide snowmobile related endeavors and training. Idaho also has a motor vehicle snowmobile license plate that generates revenue for education and training.

The majority of the 5600 miles of groomed trail are on USFS land. IDPR, the USFS and the county have a Challenge Cost Share Agreement that identifies the role of each partner with regard to grooming. This document is signed every 5 years. Additionally, the USFS and County sign an annual operating plan that determines the frequency of grooming and location of routes to be groomed.

Additional amenities for the program are acquired through ORMV (state gas tax) and RTP (federal gas tax) grant funds. Common projects include mapping, warming huts, OSV maintenance buildings, haul trucks, parking lots, vault toilets and snowmobiles for search and rescue, law enforcement and grooming program use.

A county snowmobile advisory committee appointed by county commissioners is responsible for setting an annual operating budget for funds that it receives from IDPR. Up to 15% of the registration fees may be used to fund snowmobile related law enforcement.

Education:

IDPR teaches avalanche classes to the public that involve both a classroom and field portion. The class focuses on avoiding avalanche terrain during times of high avalanche danger and limiting high marking to one person on a slope at a time. The field portion teaches snowmobilers to be confident and effective in using a probe pole, shovel and beacon. We taught 724 students this past season. We also partner with the Idaho State Snowmobile Association and provide an online snowmobile safety training class which is available at http://www.snowmobilecourse.com/usa/idaho/snowmobile-training.aspx. We taught 25 snowmobile operator students this season.

New Legislation (allows tracked vehicles on groomed trails):

A law was passed to allow tracked ATVs and UTVs to operate on groomed snowmobile trails. This was done by raising the weight limit of a snowmobile from 1000 to 2000 pounds. Effective July 1, 2014 Idaho Code 67-7101.

http://www.snowmobilecourse.com/usa/idaho/snowmobile-training.aspx

(Snowmobilers of Manitoba)

2121 Henderson Highway Phone: 204-940-7533 Email: [email protected]

Winnipeg, MB R2G 1P8 Fax: 204-940-7531 Web Address: www.snoman.mb.ca

ISC Report – June 2014 Season Overview Compared to the 2012-2013 season when most trails were open by mid-December, this season saw trails opening closer to the yearly average. We didn’t have the benefit of an early start this year, but all clubs had trails open by early January. Low snowfall in some areas combined with extreme cold temperatures and very strong winds, presented a challenge to both equipment and volunteers. By the end of the season clubs groomed a total of 156,000 kilometers of trail. Economic Impact Study Snoman received the results of the economic impact study it commissioned and the results provided great information and a few surprises:

Snowmobiling’s economic impact in Manitoba has increased by 38% since 2010;

Snowmobiling has a $300 million + impact on the Manitoba economy;

Snowmobile registration has increased by 43% since 2010; and

80-90% of snowmobile riding takes place on the designated trail system. Snowmobile Congress Snoman held its 3rd annual snowmobile congress in November and it was again a great success with over 75% of clubs in attendance and over 275 people attending the awards banquet. Provincial Trail Numbering System To further enhance rider safety, this season Snoman and it member clubs embarked on a trail numbering system for all designated trails in the provinces. Trails were designated as a club trail or a provincial trail. Provincial trails were assigned a two digit number and club trails a three digit number. There has been only positive feedback about the numbering system. New Executive Director In November of 2013 Snoman embarked on the search for a new Executive Director. After an exhausting search reviewing countless applications and conducting interviews in March we found the person we were looking for. Yvonne Rideout was selected as Snoman Executive Director and started in the position on March 24, 2014. Yvonne has a very strong background working with volunteer boards and considerable experience working with provincial and federal governments. We are very pleased to welcome Yvonne to the Snoman Team.

(Snowmobilers of Manitoba)

2121 Henderson Highway Phone: 204-940-7533 Email: [email protected]

Winnipeg, MB R2G 1P8 Fax: 204-940-7531 Web Address: www.snoman.mb.ca

Snopass Sales We are pleased to report that snopass sales have increased by 8% in the past two years and there has also been a 13.5% increase in snowmobile registrations during the same time period. This year Snoman will be requesting a $25.00 increase in the price of a snopass bringing it to $150. Snoman License Plate Snoman plans to start the 2014 snowmobile season with the launch of the Snoman license plate. The plate will be available to all Manitoba motorists at any Manitoba Public Insurance outlet. All proceeds from the license plate will go to Variety, the Children’s Charity of Manitoba. Trail Safety Program This season Snoman launched an on line Trail Signing Course. The aim was to help standardize the signing on our trail system and provide a simple yet effective way for club members to be aware of the correct method to sign their trail systems. The program has been well received with most clubs participating. There has also been an improvement in the findings during trails audits. Snoman would like to thank the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association for supporting our safety program. We were very successful this season in getting media interest in our initiatives. Snoman and City TV featured a program on snowmobile safety for Breakfast TV. Volunteers Again our club volunteers did a fantastic job in keeping the trails groomed focusing on safe conditions. However clubs are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit volunteers and it is one of the biggest

problems they face today.

2013-2014 State of Michigan Snowmobile Program Report

Michigan had record setting snowfall this past snowmobile season. It snowed from the beginning of the season in December until the end of March and was also very cold. Many places had huge amounts of snow through April. Grooming and snowmobile use was done statewide throughout the season. There were 577,170 miles groomed during the four month season! 362,536 miles were groomed in the Upper Peninsula and 214,634 in the Lower Peninsula. There were 6,417 miles of designated trails open this year with grooming being done by 68 trail sponsors during the months of December through March. Trail sponsors were paid $5.17/mile to groom the trails and $90 /mile to brush and sign. Fuel was quite expensive this year. At this time, it looks like the fuel portion of the grooming reimbursement rate will be adjusted and a supplemental payment will be distributed after all grooming requests are finalized and submitted. The State of Michigan Snowmobile Trail Permit was $45 for the season. Permit fees paid for grooming, brushing and signing, trail development, special maintenance projects, equipment, major repair of equipment and miscellaneous expenses. The initial grant outlay for these items was $6,734,005. To date, there has been an additional $1,082,423 in amendments this year, many having to do with major repair costs to grooming machines. To date, there were 143,566 trail permits sold, an 8.13% increase from last year. Also, the Department of State reported that there are 283,860 registered snowmobiles. Registration for three years costs $30. There was a last minute emergency and a bridge needed at the Cranberry Lake flooding near Detour. An old damn was taken out and the trail would have been closed if not for some quick work and placement of a bridge. There were numerous reroutes needed, approved and established in southwest Michigan by several clubs because of lost landowner permissions. The biggest concern this year is being able to purchase new equipment on a steady and reliable timeline for the entire fleet and the huge cost of repairing existing machinery. The snowmobile program is currently working on a better maintenance standard and exploring alternative equipment funding strategies. There were 14 fatalities this year, a decrease of 9 from last year.

IASA Annual Report: 2014 Minnesota Report Submitted by: Kim Lockwood, Program Administration Supervisor

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Parks and Trails Division

Overview The winter of 2013-2014 provided abundant opportunities for snowmobiling on the vast system of trails throughout Minnesota. Like other states and provinces in the Snowbelt this season, the winter was full length accompanied with an abundance of snow cover and cold temperatures statewide that provided many opportunities to enjoy the sport of snowmobiling. Some would say the success of the season was a bit limited by a few excessively cold periods that kept folks from enjoying the trails. As one would expect revenue into the dedicated snowmobile account was up from the norm due to an increase in the sale of registrations and trail passes. Grant-in-Aid Program (GIA) For the 2013/2014 season there were a total 21,372 miles of designated GIA trails statewide funded with a budget of about $7.3 million. Funding for trail maintenance and grooming grants are distributed to GIA sponsors and subsequently to clubs on a rate per mile basis. There are nine separate rate zones throughout the state with rates based on factors such as snow depth, snow duration, amount of use and location. Each GIA trail receives a funding amount equal to their number of miles multiplied by their rate per mile. Throughout the season, (4) payments are processed when performance benchmarks are met. This season the GIA program experienced a $1 million adjustment to the budget in order to address a structural deficit that arose two years ago. Measures were put in place to ensure the dedicated snowmobile account did not go into deficit. Without a considerable amount of new registrations or abundant snowfall for many years in a row, there will most likely need to be more revenue introduced into the account. Discussions are ongoing as to how best to address the structural deficit. A capital improvement grant program is also on hold until the account balance is sufficient to award grants. 2014 Legislative Session The 2014 Legislature focused primarily on policy and capital bonding during the session that ended in early May. This session did produce the following two noteworthy snowmobile related statute changes.

• The definition of a snowmobile as defined in statute was modified for purposes of snowmobile registration and other Department of Natural Resources’ provisions to

exclude all-terrain and other vehicles equipped with aftermarket ski and track configurations. M.S. 84.83 Subd. 3. Snowmobile. "Snowmobile" means a self-propelled vehicle originally manufactured and designed for travel on snow or ice steered by skis or runners. Snowmobile does not include the following vehicles equipped with aftermarket ski and track configurations: (1) an all-terrain vehicle defined in section 84.92; (2) an off-highway motorcycle defined in section 84.787; (3) an off-road vehicle defined in section 84.797; (4) a mini truck defined in section 169.011; (5) a utility task vehicle described in section 169.045; or (6) any other vehicle being operated off road.

• Snowmobile oodometer tampering was prohibited. Applies to any “off-road recreational vehicle” which is defined to include snowmobiles and OHVs. Minnesota Statutes 325E.13 is amended by adding a subdivision to read: Subd. 5. Off-road recreational vehicle. "Off-road recreational vehicle" means a snowmobile as defined in section 84.81, subdivision 3, and an off-highway vehicle, as defined in section 84.771. Sec. 62. Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 325E.14, subdivision 1, is amended to read: Subdivision 1. Tampering. No person shall knowingly tamper with, adjust, alter, change, set back, disconnect or, with intent to defraud, fail to connect the odometer of any motor vehicle or off-road recreational vehicle, or cause any of the foregoing to occur to an odometer of a motor vehicle or off-road recreational vehicle, so as to reflect a lower mileage than has actually been driven by the motor vehicle or off-road recreational vehicle.

Snowmobile Safety and Incident Report Submitted by: Leland Owens, Recreational Vehicle Coordinator, MN-DNR Enforcement

For the 2013-14 snowmobile season there were a total of 246 youth snowmobile safety classes taught by our volunteer instructors which number approximately 1800. Of the 246 classes, 162 were the CD based course and 84 were our traditional classroom style courses. (See graph below for historical context.)

Youth trained in snowmobile safety in the 11-15 years old category totaled 5,782. Individuals who were 16 years old and over that completed snowmobile safety were 3,598. The total number of individuals that participated in snowmobile safety training for 2013-2014 season equals 9, 380. (See graphs below for historical context.)

Conservation Officers issued 788 written warnings and 468 tickets/summons for snowmobile related violations. There were a total of 15 fatal snowmobile accidents, shown in the historical graph below. Of these, seven had taken snowmobile safety. Alcohol was a factor in nine of the fatalities. It was not a factor in three and unknown in one. We are awaiting results in two of the fatality reports. Injury accidents reported totaled 160.

End of report.

New Brunswick’s White Gold – A Record Season The New Brunswick Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (NBFSC) recorded a record season in 2014. Our snow-belts saw White Gold begin to accumulate early and stay late. Many regions and clubs groomed our 7400 kilometer (4300 miles) of trails till the end of our land leases and agreements till April 15th. Here is a quick snap shot of the record numbers;

May 6th was the last recorded Ride date; Snowmobilers started in backcountry in November. 16,612 Registered Sleds 15,000 Trail Permits (all types, approximate) 30,000 Grooming Hours (normal average is approximately 18,000 hours) $1.7 million; Club’s financial Payouts this season, again largest ever

Entering 2014, new Off Road Vehicle Act (O RVA) Legislation brought changes lobbied for by the NBFSC over many years. Not all the Act’s changes were well received however all changes were introduced to improve the Clubs and Volunteers sustainability. Major changes introduced were;

Sound legislation; OEM and SSCC exhaust systems or a market equivalent required Mirrors on all snowmobiles; minimum of one permanently mounted on left-hand side (trails) Specific dedicated placement of sled registrations; metal license plate Specific dedicated placement of all sled’s Trail Permits; bottom dead center of windshields

Our annual “Go Snowmobiling-Take a Friend” ride in partnership with Nova Scotia (SANS), Prince Edward Island (PEISA) and the Atlantic Region’s four District Sales Managers was again well attended. Our N.B. Premier, the Hon. David Alward, our Tourism Minister, the Hon. Trevor Holder and our Finance Minister, Hon. Blaine Higgs were joined by supporters and the Presidents of our 4-Member Clubs in the region. Our 2014 Go Snowmobiling Ride took all the participants to the newest snowmobile trail in New Brunswick on the Fundy Trail Parkway overlooking the Bay of Fundy at the Atlantic Ocean- spectacular.

Alphee Leblanc, a long time volunteer , passionate snowmobiler and one of the longest serving members of the NBFSC’s provincial Board of Directors is the 2014 Canadian Snowmobiler of the Year. Alphee has joined the NBFSC at the 2014 International Snowmobile Congress and will receive his award from the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations at our closing banquet this week. Alphee is the fifth volunteer from New Brunswick to be awarded with organized snowmobiling’s highest award in Canada – A Record Year.

Newfoundland and Labrador Snowmobile Federation

7 Wellon Drive, Deer Lake, NL, A8A 2G6 Tel: (709) 635-4395 Fax: (709) 635-4396 Website: www.nlsf.org

E-mail: [email protected]

Two winters in One Season

This winter has been one of the longest and best snowmobiling seasons we have

experienced in many years. Many areas around the province had sufficient snow

accumulations in late November and early December 2013 for snowmobiling enthusiasts

to begin riding the trails. As a result of the excellent snowmobiling conditions it was

expected, by trail sticker buyers, that the NLSF would begin grooming operations at that

time, and we did.

With a January mild and rain, most areas lost a lot of snow. When the cold weather

returned, it returned with a vengeance, dumping twice as much snow as we had before

Christmas. With this much snow it was possible to snowmobile, in some areas, till mid

May.

This season the NLSF has conducted over 5500 hours grooming trails throughout the

island portion of the province. This is a 25% increase in the amount of grooming hours

from the previous two seasons. This increase coupled with significant maintenance and

operating cost increases has placed a strain on the resources available for the NLSF to

conduct grooming operations. The 25% increase in grooming hours is expected to cost

an additional $125,000 over and above our normal trail sticker sales.

This season the NLSF put on a pilot project of using a HISS Groomer. With the

assistance of Arctic Cat and BRP, supplying a demo model each, we tried these groomers

in the low usage areas. They worked well. After the trail was initially groomed with a

larger groomer the trail could be maintained adequately by these sleds c/w 6 ft. drag.

Again this year the NLSF Safety Program was in full swing. With this program being the

only one recognized by the Provincial Government most of the training was done to

various Government departments as well to larger corporations that use snowmobiles for

some of their work ( i.e.: Hydro & Aliant ) . As well this year we had a director take on

the job of Safety for Youth. Making inroads to having it included in the Phys. Ed.

Programs in schools.

All in all it was a great year for snowmobiling Newfoundland.

Yours in Snowmobiling,

Kevin Sweetland

http://www.nlsf.org/


State of New Hampshire Jurisdictional report for IASA Colorado 2014

• New Hampshire experienced an above average winter and riding season. Riding began in mid-December and extended well into mid-April.

• We registered approximately 48,000 snowmobiles which is the highest since 2011. • Bureau of Trails distributed 1.7 million dollars for grooming operations statewide. • NH Fish and Game Dept. certified approximately 1500 students in the traditional snowmobile safety

class. • New for 2014, NH now offers an OHRV/Snowmobile combined online safety course certification in

addition to the traditional course. • Conservation Officers patrolled over 25,000 miles on snowmobiles and OHRVs enforcing safety, speed,

landowner, and modified exhaust laws and rules. • There were 80 reported accidents, 4 were fatalities. (1 on-trail, 3 off-trail on lakes and near an earthen

dam). The number of reported rental accidents stabilized at 14. • The NH Fish and Game Department launched an electronic OHRV/Snowmobile Registration system at

the agent (Point of Sale) • A new law was passed in 2014 that authorizes the New Hampshire to negotiate with the States of Maine

and Vermont to develop a potential new tri-state trail pass/registration endorsement that would be recognized by all three jurisdictions.

New York State

Office of Parks, Recreation, & Historic Preservation’s Snowmobile Unit’s

2013 - 2014

Season Report

Visit our web page at www.nysparks.com.

NYS OPRHP Snowmobile Report 2013-2014 2

2013-2014 REPORT NYS SNOWMOBILE PROGRAM

The New York State Snowmobile Program was created by the State Legislature and falls under the jurisdiction of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (“OPRHP”), which has the responsibility to plan for the development, maintenance and oversight of a statewide snowmobile program. See, Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation Law (“PRHPL”), Title D, Articles 21-27; Rules and regulations applicable to administration of the snowmobile program by OPRHP are found at Title 9 of the Official Compilation of Codes, Rules and Regulations of the State of New York (9 NYCRR 453-460). Mission Statement for OPRHP Snowmobile Unit & Trail Maintenance Entities (“TME”) as outlined by law: § 21.01. Legislative Findings and Purpose The legislature hereby finds that it is in the public interest to: Register snowmobiles as recreational vehicles for the purpose of enforcement of

reasonable provisions concerning their use and control; Encourage the sport of snowmobiling as a family activity; Promote the proper and safe use and operation of snowmobiles; Provide an adequate safety educational program for youthful operators; Limit the operation of snowmobiles upon public highways and private property

without the consent of the owner; Protect and preserve the sate’s natural resources, including its wildlife, wild

forests, waters and scenic and wilderness character; Reduce the effect on the environment of excess noise; Insure privacy of remote areas; Afford opportunity for compatible enjoyment of various recreational activities on

the state’s lands and open spaces. It is the purpose of this title to promote the safe and proper use of snowmobiles for recreation and commerce in this state by encouraging their use and development and minimize detrimental effects of such use upon the environment. § 21.02. Snowmobile Trail Maintenance Entities Snowmobile trail maintenance entities play an important role in the trail system. As general guidelines, to further promote the proper and safe operation of snowmobiles and the other purposes as set forth in section 21.01 of this article, snowmobile trail maintenance entities should strive to:


1. clearly mark and delineate state designated snowmobile trails for which they are

responsible; 2. encourage riders to participate in available snowmobile educational programs to

make riders aware of the inherent risks associated with the sport; 3. equip trail maintenance vehicles that they operate with such warning implements

or devices as specified by law;

4. hold training sessions each season, for operators of trail maintenance equipment concerning the proper operation of such vehicles;

5. provide education for all other personnel charged with trail maintenance,

inspection or patrol duties as to methods to be used for summoning aid in emergencies; and

6. maintain for public use trail area information showing the following: (a) the

location of state designated trails; and (b) the status of each trail as open or closed. Nothing in this section shall create a legal duty or obligation beyond that which may already exist.

Program Overview: Program funding is authorized by section 21.07 of the PRHP Law, and obtained through state snowmobile registration fees. All but ten ($10) dollars of the $45 or $100 registration fee collected is dedicated to support snowmobiling in New York State. Ten dollars is allocated to the Department of Motor Vehicles (“DMV”) to cover the cost of staff printing, mailing and two-year record retention associated with processing registrations, including the New York State Snowmobile Association (“NYSSA”) voucher system. The balance of the registration fee is deposited into a State Special Revenue Snowmobile Account for program purposes. Snowmobile registrations for the 2013-2014 season totaled 115,982 reflecting a decrease of 758 or 0.6% from the 2012-2013 season. In 2012, the New York State DMV instituted an online snowmobile registration system making the registration process faster, easier, and more convenient. A chart reflecting statewide registrations since 1991 is provided later in the report. In the 2012-2013 season, $4,839,535 was collected from 116,740 registrations and $3,021,970 was budgeted to provide financial support for the maintenance and development of the statewide trail system, which comprised approximately 9,860 miles. This revenue is returned to local areas as grants-in-aid for snowmobile trail development and maintenance. In the 2013-2014 season, $4,802,695 was collected from the 115,982 registrations and $ $4,033,085 was budgeted to provide financial support for the maintenance and development of the current statewide trail system, which is comprised of 10,317 miles.


The Statewide Trail System traverses 46 counties and is maintained by over 200 TMEs funded through 55 municipal sponsors. This vast trail network is comprised of lands under the jurisdiction of OPRHP, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (“DEC”), New York State Canal Corporation, local governments and many private landowners. Private landowners have increasingly opened their property to snowmobiling, with the protection of insurance coverage provided by the state snowmobile program. OPRHP has established programs for snowmobile trail grants, premium payments for the statewide trail insurance policies, law enforcement grants, a law enforcement development school, snowmobile safety education programs, special event permits, accident reporting protocols, snowmobile publications, groomer education, trail signage guidelines, as well as general program oversight. Director’s Season in Review Report: As part of a continuing effort to improve snowmobiling in New York State, the following is an overview of this season’s accomplishments and a discussion of future concerns and objectives. Like the Local Sponsors, and the Trail Maintenance Entities, OPRHP remains focused on enhancing the delivery of services in order to provide a safe and enjoyable snowmobile trail system. This year the Snowmobile Unit further enhanced the Automated Trail Grant Program (ATGP). Comments have been very positive and supportive. Several suggestions to improve the program have been received and implemented. Of note is the added ability to attach scanned receipts, completing the goal of a paperless auditing system. It is anticipated that the Program will continue to improve and significantly reduce the workload for Clubs, Sponsors and the Snowmobile Unit. This reduced workload will translate to faster and more accurate audits thus meaning quicker release of Trail Grant Funds. At this time all clubs and Local Sponsors have been afforded the opportunity to receive ATGP training and OPRHP continues to conduct additional training on a regional basis as warranted. We have continued responding to the concern that communication between OPRHP and the snowmobiling community was sometimes confused, or perhaps too limited. To address the issue OPRHP has: Attended and participated at monthly NYSSA Board of Directors meetings. Conducted annual meetings with Local Sponsors. Visited as many local snowmobile clubs and associations as our schedule allows. Conducted public outreach by maintaining a Snowmobile Unit booth at the 12-

day New York State Fair, which attracts thousands of snowmobilers, landowners and other stakeholders.

Met with Senate, Assembly and local governmental officials in an effort to disseminate a clear and consistent message about snowmobiling in New York.

Furthered the dialogue with DEC, DOT and the Adirondack Park Agency (“APA”) concerning the implementation of the Adirondack Snowmobile Trails Plan. The issuance by APA of trail guidelines within the Forest Preserve has facilitated permanent placement of snowmobile trails that connect communities and establish attractive riding locations.

Participated in a historic Governor's ride and "I Sled NY" promotion campaign.


Another area of concern relates to the public’s understanding and the enforcement of New York’s snowmobile laws. To address this issue OPRHP has: Facilitated Law Enforcement multi-agency roundtable discussions and meetings. Held the Snowmobile Law Enforcement Development School (“SLEDS”) officer

training to achieve consistent law enforcement practices. Worked with DMV to implement an out of state online registration process and

on issuance of new registration decals for those that have been placed incorrectly. Other noteworthy accomplishments- OPRHP has:

Increased awareness of the Special Event Permit process, including explanation of

the exemptions provided to participants, and implemented a new database application for permit processing. As a result, the issuance of permits has been streamlined. OPRHP has reinforced to event organizers that the Special Event Permit does not allow for underage operation.

Continued the Magistrates Training Program. Continued implementation of the IASA Zero Alcohol Campaign, a proactive

program to help individuals realize that NOT consuming alcohol before and while riding is:

“YOUR SMART CHOICE.” Areas of future concentration for OPRHP will be: Developing a more efficient and equitable delivery of trail maintenance funds. Updating the Snowmobile Safety Education course to allow for an interactive and

multi-media approach to learning including development of an online registration process for both instructors and class attendees.

Working toward making the grant application and documentation process even more user-friendly.

Increasing the accuracy of trail data in order to support the decision-making process for OPRHP, DEC, DOT, TME’s, and local sponsors.

Developing a system to allow Law Enforcement, rescue agencies and snowmobilers to download maps of the trail system to individual GPS systems.

Creating a downloadable Statewide GPS POI system that notifies motorists and snowmobilers of an upcoming snowmobile trail crossing.

Continuing to clarify and update snowmobile laws, codes, and regulations, concentrating on the definition of what is a snowmobile.

Exploring reasonable staffing and program delivery levels that will improve the delivery of services and the maintenance of the trail system.

Developing enforcement guidelines for the updated Title D, Article 25.17 regulation for sound testing of snowmobiles.

Production of an updated statewide snowmobile trail map. At the end of this report, you have an opportunity to assume the perspective of the Director of Snowmobiling and indicate to OPRHP where you would like OPRHP to concentrate efforts to advance the program. Direct, candid feedback from stakeholders is an important way for OPRHP to improve communication and identify where to focus attention for the coming seasons.


Major Areas of Responsibility: Snowmobile Trail Grants Local governments contact the OPRHP Snowmobile Unit for information and applications to participate in the snowmobile trail grants program. Local governments can undertake the trail work directly or sub-contract with a TME or other organization for the maintenance of the trails. There are 55 local governments and over 200 TME’s that participate in this program. Trail mileage is officially incorporated into the statewide snowmobile trail system after review and approval by the Snowmobile Unit. Once the grants are finalized and funds are available, 70% of the grant amount is released at the beginning of the season and the remaining 30%, if any, is released after the final audit at the end of the season.

TRAIL GRANT/MILEAGE 2013 – 2014

Trail Type Mileage Rate Funding Corridor A 5,866 miles $315/mile $1,847,790 Corridor B 745 miles $245/mile $ 182,525 Secondary A 3,139 miles $315/mile $ 988,785 Secondary B 567 miles $245/mile $ 138,915 Totals 10,317 miles High Snow 2,778 miles $315/mile $ 875,070 Grand Total: $ 4,033,085


Snowmobile Safety Education Courses Anyone who is at least 18 years old may operate a snowmobile in New York State without any other qualification, except as defined by state and local laws regulating that operation. However, it is recommended that all operators complete a recognized snowmobile safety course. Operators between the ages of 10 and 17 years face restricted operation on lands other than those owned or leased by his or her parent or guardian unless he or she has successfully completed a safety course. Throughout New York State, over three hundred active volunteer instructors are certified by OPRHP and offer snowmobile safety courses. If you are interested in becoming an instructor, the first step is to take a snowmobile safety course. Then, please call or send us a letter requesting the application package. Individuals interested in taking a course should visit www.nysparks.com during the fall and winter to obtain a listing of courses offered throughout New York State. As of March 31, 2014, approximately 153 courses were held and 3,055 students received certification for the 2013-2014 season.

Law Enforcement Program OPRHP is the lead agency conducting the Snowmobile Law Enforcement Development School (“SLEDS”) training program. SLEDS accepts law enforcement officers from state, county, and local agencies involved in snowmobile law enforcement. SLEDS was started in 1994 and redeveloped in 2008 to provide actual field situation instruction. The course covers snowmobile safety, law, patrol procedure, accident investigation, field operations, and basic ice rescue training. The updated SLEDS program is four days and nights of intensive instruction, riding, field exercises and skills development necessary to

Students Successfully Completing OPRHP Snowmobile Safety Course

01,0002,0003,0004,0005,0006,0007,000

1992

-199

3

1993

-199

4

1994

-199

5

1995

-199

6

1996

-199

7

1997

-199

8

1998

-199

9

1999

-200

0

2000

-200

1

2001

-200

2

2002

-200

3

2003

-200

4

2004

-200

5

2005

-200

6

2006

-200

7

2007

-200

8

2008

-200

9

2009

-201

0

2010

-201

1

2011

-201

2

2012

-201

3

2013

-201

4

Year

# o

f S

tude

nts


help maintain a safe trail system. The primary goal is to achieve effective and uniform snowmobile law enforcement practices and policies across New York. Currently, a basic course is offered for first time attendees. An advanced course for basic course graduates is under development for future implementation. These programs are open to officers from all law enforcement agencies throughout New York State involved in snowmobile enforcement, and officers from other states and Canadian provinces have also attended. This seasons SLEDS course was attended by 20 new officers from 13 agencies. Law Enforcement Funding With the current Snowmobile Law Enforcement Grant program, OPRHP offers up to 50% reimbursement for costs incurred by municipal police agencies in the enforcement of snowmobile rules and regulations, and safety training. The maximum award to an individual county is $12,500 with a statewide total maximum payout of $150,000. Funding is provided from state snowmobile registration fees. Snowmobile Trail Mapping The Snowmobile Unit approves all funded trails for inclusion in the Statewide Snowmobile Trail System. In accordance with the Phase I documentation, Local Sponsors delineate changes and/or updates to their county or town trail system, using GPS developed data. Decisions are made regarding mileage approval and allocation of funds based on the maps and information provided. Only those trails that meet the program requirements and enhance the existing statewide trail system receive funding approval. Each season all sponsors who submitted a Phase I packet received written notification of the status of their Phase I trail requests. This has helped to limit confusion as to which trails were approved for funding and those that were denied. This past season over 700 individual requests for trail, changes or additions were processed. OPRHP currently funds 10,317 miles of trails through payments to local government sponsors. There is a total of 10,186 miles of snowmobile trails in the NYS Snowmobile Trail System, with the additional 131 miles of trails maintained directly by OPRHP and DEC for the public. The single largest participating landowner is the State of New York, with over 40% of trails crossing public lands. This represents a significant increase from the past when only 20% of trails existed on public lands. Trails on public lands have the advantage of being generally more stable, as opposed to trails on private land which may be rerouted or closed from season to season or mid-season.


Snowmobile Special Events A "special event" is an organized rally, race, exhibition, or demonstration of limited duration, which is conducted according to a prearranged schedule and in which general public interest is manifested. A permit allows participants to operate snowmobiles at OPRHP-approved special events (including on-site practice) with exemption from provisions concerning speed, mufflers and lights and the provisions of Article 47 of the Vehicle and Traffic Law concerning registration. For 2013-2014 OPRHP continued to reinforce that the snowmobile special event permit does not provide an exemption of Section 25.19 of the PRHP Law regarding the minimum age for operation No individuals under the age of 10 may participate in an event. Those age 10 to 17 must have a valid Snowmobile Safety Certificate and/or be within 500 feet of an adult 18 years or older. The sponsor of a snowmobile special event must secure a permit from the Snowmobile Unit. The application must be submitted at least 15 days prior to the special event. Appropriate law enforcement agencies must be notified of the event and written permission from the landowner must also be secured. It is the responsibility of the person in charge and the event sponsor to plan and undertake the event with the utmost regard for the safety of the participants and spectators. The Special Event permit application and instructions are available on the OPRHP website. For 2013-2014 OPRHP received and approved 74 special event permits and is continuing efforts to streamline application processing. Snowmobile Accident Reports The operator of any snowmobile involved in any accident resulting in personal injuries or death of any person, or in which property damage in the estimated amount of one thousand ($1,000) dollars or more is sustained, must report such accident to both an appropriate law enforcement agency and OPRHP. That law enforcement agency will in turn submit to OPRHP an original snowmobile accident report. OPRHP compiles the accident reports into a yearly statistical report containing such information as: total accidents, injuries, fatalities, location, nature and primary cause of collision, age of operator, engine displacement, alcohol involvement, and whether a helmet was worn. Unsafe speed is the primary cause of snowmobile accidents. Most accidents continue to involve collisions with fixed objects, such as trees. While OPRHP believes that all fatal accidents and most injury accidents are reported, it is possible that some accidents go

Special Event Permits Issued 2005-2014

37 47 42

7499

113

62

136

74

0

50

100

150

2005-2006

2006-2007

2007-2008

2008-2009

2009-2010

2010-2011

2011-2012

2012-2013

2013-2014


unreported. As of April 17, 2014, 207 total accidents were reported for the 2013-2014 season, of which 12 resulted in fatalities. This is an increase from 2012-2013 in the total number of accidents but a decrease in fatal accidents. Normalized for number of registrations, this represents 1.65 accidents per 1000 registrations in 2012-2013 and 1.78 accidents per 1000 registrations in 2013-2014.

Fatal Accident Reports Received as of 4/17/14 for 2013-2014 Snowmobile Season. Month Fatal Accidents December 3 January 4 February 2 March 3 TOTAL TO DATE 12

Number of Snowmobile Accidents Per 1000 Registrations

3.13

2.09

3.86

3.10

2.89

1.57

2.25 2.

46

2.37

2.23

2.05

1.12

1.65 1.78

0.00

0.50

1.00

1.50

2.00

2.50

3.00

3.50

4.00

4.50

2000‐2001

2001‐2002

2002‐2003

2003‐2004

2004‐2005

2005‐2006

2006‐2007

2007‐2008

2008‐2009

2009‐2010

2010‐2011

2011‐2012

2012‐2013

2013‐2014

Average


Snowmobile Publications Publications available to the public from the OPRHP Snowmobile Unit include: *The Snowmobiler’s Guide is an easy to use reference guide to snowmobiling in New York. It contains practical information for all snowmobilers whether they are experienced or novice, resident or visitor, an adult or youthful operator. The handy checklists included can be copied for use on many occasions. The Guide received minor updates in 2014. *The Snowmobile Trail Signing Handbook outlines a comprehensive and uniform system of trail signing across the state. The objective of trail signing is to enhance the safety of persons, vehicles, and property; improve travel within and between trail systems; increase comfort and confidence in navigating the statewide trail system; and standardize and promote recreational snowmobiling. *The Guidelines for Snowmobile Trail Groomer Operator Training serves as a resource guide for trail grooming managers and equipment operators. A PowerPoint presentation that enhances the Guidelines is also available on CD upon request. Safety education publications are created and provided to instructors and students who participate in the New York State Snowmobile Safety Course. (* available online at our website: www.nysparks.com) Snowmobile Trail Groomer Training The Snowmobile Unit has developed a Groomer Operator Training Program. Using the guidelines from the International Association of Snowmobile Administrators (“IASA”) Grooming Manual, input from experienced groomers, and past OPRHP publications, the training includes technical information and advice on the art of grooming snowmobile trails. Through the cooperation of OPRHP, NYSSA, and local TMEs, many groomer operators have attended grooming workshops held in various locations throughout the state. OPRHP is consistently working on more detailed and updated training materials, as reflected by the Snowmobile Unit’s development of the NYS Snowmobile Trail Groomer Operator Training DVD. A copy of the DVD was mailed to each TME in August 2009. Magistrates Training In 2009, it was recognized that there were issues obtaining appropriate and timely dispositions from local magistrates concerning snowmobile violations and offenses. In response, the OPRHP Snowmobile Unit approached the NYS Court System for approval to develop a training course for magistrates. The focus of the training course is on how magistrates in the course of carrying out their duties, can assist the snowmobile community achieve a safer trail system. The course emphasizes the importance of attaining adherence to the snowmobile laws ensures everyone’s safety on the trails. The


course was designed for two hours and is accredited as a source of continuing education credit that magistrates are required to attain each year. This class has been presented at the annual conferences of the magistrates with over fifty counties represented. Examples of which counties have been offered training are: Essex, Warren, Orleans, Chautauqua, Chenango, Lewis, Oneida, Allegany, Madison, Franklin, St. Lawrence, and Cortland counties. Additional meetings will be scheduled for any interested Magistrates Associations. If you feel your county magistrates need training, please contact the Snowmobile Unit. To date, there has been a very positive response including an increase in the appropriate processing of those who violate the laws and rules regulating snowmobile operation. NYS Snowmobile Registrations since 1991_____________

Snowmobile Registrations for NYS

117,

823 14

6,66

2

151,

287

172,

164

163,

635

155,

000

149,

610

130,

502

128,

283

136,

471

131,

664

134,

442

90,4

33 116,

740

115,

982

49,4

36 61,4

77 80,2

86 94,6

07

101,

933

108,

463

126,

041

020,00040,00060,00080,000

100,000120,000140,000160,000180,000200,000

1991

- 19

92

1993

-199

4

1994

- 19

95

1995

- 19

96

1996

- 19

97

1997

- 19

98

1998

- 19

99

1999

- 20

00

2000

- 20

01

2001

- 20

02

2002

- 20

03

2003

- 20

04

2004

- 20

05

2005

- 20

06

2006

- 20

07

2007

-200

8

2008

-200

9

2009

-201

0

2010

-201

1

2011

-201

2

2012

-201

3

2013

-201

4

# R

eg

iste

red


2013-2014 NYS Snowmobile Registrations by County County Originals Renewals Trail fund Club Non-club Club Non-club Total receipts Albany 340 91 1318 441 2190 $105,910Allegany 150 28 517 44 739 $29,825Bronx 2 1 11 2 16 $725Broome 261 55 1059 94 1469 $59,610Cattaraugus 311 106 1005 137 1559 $67,930Cayuga 352 61 1282 126 1821 $74,020Chautauqua 574 70 1923 125 2692 $104,945Chemung 52 21 187 30 290 $12,955Chenango 217 52 804 66 1139 $46,355Clinton 267 44 947 95 1353 $55,000Columbia 114 20 434 46 614 $25,120Cortland 204 39 728 65 1036 $41,980Delaware 237 52 990 138 1417 $60,045Dutchess 173 86 928 184 1371 $62,835Erie 1287 278 4879 664 7108 $300,590Essex 186 46 660 141 1033 $46,440Franklin 213 88 846 116 1263 $55,425Fulton 413 101 1564 114 2192 $88,545Genesee 240 34 1093 72 1439 $56,195Greene 115 20 342 64 541 $23,555Hamilton 173 12 640 48 873 $33,855Herkimer 673 67 2238 81 3059 $115,205Jefferson 448 77 1554 172 2251 $92,480Kings 3 6 26 12 47 $2,635Lewis 432 25 1518 68 2043 $76,620Livingston 124 59 610 85 878 $38,650Madison 465 104 1661 138 2368 $96,190Monroe 793 157 3091 317 4358 $178,600Montgomery 252 55 1044 91 1442 $58,500Nassau 85 40 446 139 710 $34,695New York 7 2 19 12 40 $2,170Niagara 425 87 1386 187 2085 $88,045Oneida 1410 155 4547 246 6358 $244,585Onondaga 1047 225 3861 417 5550 $229,560Ontario 233 62 968 87 1350 $55,445Orange 215 88 1142 243 1688 $77,285Orleans 126 23 458 40 647 $26,110Oswego 925 116 2597 194 3832 $151,170Otsego 189 46 992 83 1310 $52,945Putnam 62 24 304 51 441 $19,560Queens 11 11 64 47 133 $7,845Rensselaer 249 64 1051 152 1516 $64,940Richmond 21 9 82 19 131 $6,125Rockland 31 10 263 51 355 $15,780Saratoga 687 149 2557 235 3628 $115,105Schenectady 210 51 878 120 1259 $148,100Schoharie 100 38 622 64 824 $53,470Schuyler 53 25 200 23 301 $34,450Seneca 105 44 298 36 483 $13,175St Lawrence 547 156 1870 183 2756 $21,305Steuben 157 42 579 79 857 $36,650


Suffolk 252 123 1276 292 1943 $90,830Sullivan 134 32 666 106 938 $40,420Tioga 112 24 397 22 555 $21,955Tompkins 111 28 440 56 635 $26,845Ulster 276 85 1027 201 1589 $71,345Warren 273 69 1510 109 1961 $78,425Washington 310 60 1186 96 1652 $66,400Wayne 529 101 1846 177 2653 $108,145Westchester 53 38 416 101 608 $28,925Wyoming 261 61 1238 117 1677 $68,485Yates 48 14 182 32 276 $12,190Total 18325 3957 69267 7793 99342 $4,123,220 Out of State Subtotal 3679 572 11117 1186 16554 $676,080Out of the US 42 4 37 3 86 $3,395Total 3721 576 11154 1189 16640 $679,475 Grand Total 22,046 4,533 80,421 8,982 115,982 $4,802,695

Registration Overview Total Club Registrations 102,467 Total Non-Club Regs 13,515 Total NYS Registrations 99,342 Total Out of State Regs 16,640 Total Renewals 89,403 Total Originals 26,579

Grand Total 115,982

(All others: less than 1,000)

2012-2013 Snowmobile Registrations

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

Erie

Oneida

Onondaga

Monroe

Oswego

Saratoga

Herkimer

St Lawrence

Chautauqua

Wayne

Madison

Jefferson

Fulton

Albany

Niagara

Lewis

Warren

Suffolk

Cayuga

Orange

Wyoming

Washington

Ulster

Cattaraugus

Rensselaer

Broome

Montgomery

Genesee

Delaware

Dutchess

Clinton

Ontario

Otsego

Franklin

Schenectady

Chenango

Cortland

Essex


2013-2014 Out-Of-State NYS Snowmobile Registrations* State Originals Renewals Trail fund Club Non-club Club Non-club Total receipts AZ 0 0 1 0 1 $35CA 1 0 5 0 6 $210CO 1 0 2 0 3 $105CT 274 44 898 137 1353 $57,310DE 14 3 95 6 118 $4,625FL 14 1 72 18 105 $4,720GA 2 2 14 3 21 $1,010ID 0 0 1 0 1 $35IL 2 0 6 0 8 $280IN 1 0 4 2 7 $355KS 0 0 1 0 1 $35KY 0 0 3 0 3 $105MA 116 26 204 25 371 $15,790MD 55 22 172 27 276 $12,355ME 5 1 2 0 8 $335MI 10 5 6 1 22 $1,100MN 1 0 0 0 1 $35MO 0 0 3 0 3 $105MT 1 0 0 0 1 $35NC 15 4 42 6 67 $2,895NH 21 3 21 4 49 $2,100NJ 582 100 3170 367 4219 $173,350NV 2 0 1 0 3 $105OH 389 40 916 80 1425 $56,475OK 1 0 0 1 2 $125OR 0 1 0 0 1 $90PA 2047 290 5149 485 7971 $321,610RI 8 5 25 4 42 $1,965SC 2 0 12 2 16 $670SD 1 0 1 0 2 $70TN 3 0 10 0 13 $455TX 4 4 14 1 23 $1,080VA 8 0 55 4 67 $2,565VT 62 14 70 3 149 $6,150WA 0 0 1 0 1 $35WI 9 0 2 1 12 $475WV 7 2 19 2 30 $1,270Unknown 21 5 120 7 153 $6,015Subtotal 3679 572 11117 1186 16554 $676,080Out of the US 42 4 37 3 86 $3,395 Grand Total 3721 576 11154 1189 16640 $679,475

*States not listed have zero registrations


Upcoming Season Highlights April 1, 2014 Start of the new project year. June 2, 2014 Trail system Phase I (Prior Approval) application deadline. September 2, 2014 Phase II Trail Funding Application deadline to OPRHP. November, 2014 70% payment process begins. Notification by OPRHP of projected

allocation of State aid for each applicant and issuance of 70% vouchers for signature of Local Sponsor (dependant on sufficient funding availability).

March 31, 2014 End of project year. May 31, 2014 Deadline for Post Project submissions from Local Sponsor including

documentation (Attachment worksheets). July, 2014 Final Payments processed (based upon available Statewide fund

balance and available documentation). OPRHP CLOSES OUT THE 2014 – 2015 FILES

NYSOPRHP Snowmobile Unit Phone: (518) 474-0446

Fax: (518) 486-7378 Email: [email protected]

Web: nysparks.com/recreation/snowmobiles/

Stephen Lewis, Director James MacFarland, Senior Natural Resource Planner

Bennett Campbell, Administrative Program Aide


This page was intentionally left blank.


Survey of Snowmobiling Priorities

If you were the Director of Snowmobiling, what changes/improvements would you make to the Snowmobile Trail Program? Example areas: Funding Distribution, Safety Education, Trail Signage/Marking, Promotion of NY trail system, Snowmobile Laws, Registration

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Before leaving the Forum, please return this to the NYS OPRHP Snowmobile Unit.

Thank you!

North Dakota’s Snowmobile Trail Program IASA Annual Report 2013-2014

The ND Parks and Recreation Department (NDPRD) are charged with the task of managing the state snowmobile trails in the ND Century Code. The Department contracts the trail and equipment management to Snowmobile North Dakota (SND). The contract has existed for over 25 years. Snow Conditions: General Trail Information

ND Trail Program Information # of Trail Systems # of Miles Official Season Trail Requirement

14 2,800 Dec. 1st to Apr. 1st Min. of 4" base Trail systems were open longer this season compared to last but conditions were more favorable for grooming last season. Last season an additional 6,500 miles of trail were groomed. This season the program dealt with lots of cold temperatures and wind factors delaying the grooming operations.

North Dakota Snow Conditions (Table based on inches and an average across the state)

Amount of Snow Snow Base 4 Month - Total

Snowfall Temperature # of Weeks Open 2011-2012 1.8 0.7 18.0 21.5 3 2012-2013 10.4 3.1 32.0 20.6 11 2013-2014 9.0 3.5 31.0 8.9 14

Trail Information: 3 Year Comparison

Season Miles Groomed Fuel Expenses Payroll Expenses Equip. Maint./Repair Exp. 2011-2012 1,095 $3,819.17 $1,096.95 $7,191.54 2012-2013 18,092 $50,235.32 $14,127.06 $5,360.40 2013-2014 11,536 $36,431.08 $12,362.85 $11,488.97

Equipment The snowmobile trail program manages over $1.9 million dollars in equipment; operating 14 Tuckers, 19 implements (drags), a couple snowmobiles and trail grubbing equipment (UTV’s, mowers, trailers). The equipment fleet has depended on the existence of the Recreational Trail Program and the grant opportunities it provides. The ND Parks and Recreation Department established a Trail Crew that assists with snowmobile trail grubbing in the fall based on requests for assistance. Snowmobile Registrations Registrations in North Dakota are collected on a biennial basis and the current biennium comes to a close on June 30, 2015. In comparison to the same month from the previous biennium there is an increase of approximately 9%.

Snowmobile Program Biennial Revenue (Comparing April of 1st Year in Biennium)

Sled #'s

Registration Revenue

Safety Revenue

Gas Tax Revenue

Trail Pass Revenue

Dealer $5 Safety Fee

Total Revenue

Apr-11 17,994 $618,222.00 $17,160.00 $168,933.00 $8,535.00 $7,890.00 $822,120.00

Apr-13 14,528 $508,471.00 $4,385.00 $148,467.00 $2,715.00 $4,055.00 $668,093.00Apr-14 12,282 $429,900.00 $1,500.00 $367,178.40 $1,526.70 $2,710.00 $502,815.10

Safety Education Program The ND Parks & Recreation Department conducts the snowmobile certification classes in the state. This past season, 153 youth (12 years of age and older) were certified with a total number of 12 classes. The safety simulator purchased in 2009, traveled around North Dakota to safety fairs, safety education classes and schools educating proper riding practices along with the new safety education trailer. The safety trailer uses ISMA’s safety messages, in the form of safety panels inside the trailer to teach safe and ethical snowmobiling.

Enforcement The ND Parks & Recreation Department was able to conduct 8 enforcement checkpoints. 101 out of state snowmobile permits were sold. This is down by 59 permits from last season. Events

1. Convention, Annual Meeting, Snow Shows, Workshops, (Please include # attending): The Northeast Trail Association hosted State Ride on February 8, 2014 in Walhalla, ND. Roughly 300 participants supported the event. The Gasmann Coulee Cruisers will be hosting SND convention, scheduled for October 31st – November 2nd, 2014 in Minot, ND, annual meeting held with convention, snow show, will host classes (workshops for grooming, signing and grubbing) at convention. SND attended 9 snow shows this past season in ND, MN and Canada.

a. New Officers: Next election of officers is scheduled for November 1st, 2014. 2. Charity Fundraisers ($’s raised): SND hosted the 5th Annual Pink Ribbon Riders ND Snow Run. The

event had approximately had 45 participants and raised over $30,000 for the Pink Ribbon Riders. In five years, ND has raised over $225,000 for the organization. The Pink Ribbon Riders is a non-profit organization that creates breast cancer awareness for both men and women and provides $500 gift cards to breast cancer patients through its Patient Assistance Program.

3. Other events involved in: a. PSA Video’s: The snowmobile PSA video’s created during the 2012-2013 season were launched

with the “Get Registered” campaign this season. The snowmobile program received over $350,000 in free airtime to run the PSA’s helping boost snowmobile registrations by 9% this season.

b. 13-17 Snowmobile Program Strategic Plan: The full plan can be found on SND’s website at: http://www.snowmobilend.org/?id=75&ncid=3&nid=66 The program accomplished 10 of the strategic plan objectives this season including changing how the trail systems were reimbursed for grooming expenses, researching legislative opportunities for 2015, started to develop grooming tracking software that is compatible with ND’s program and researching youth snowmobile training opportunities.

c. Established International Trail: An International Trail between ND and Saskatchewan was developed this season. The programs coordinated to host an International Ride in honor of the new trail but the event had to be postponed till 2015 because of low snow.

Partnerships SND continued its existing partnerships during the 2013-2014 season with Bunke Racing, Keep ND Clean and the Pink Ribbon Riders. In August of 2013, SND entered a contract to add a new partnership with Fishing Buddy. Respectfully submitted: Keri Wanner, Executive Director, Snowmobile North Dakota

5516 Spring Garden Rd., 4th Floor

Halifax, NS

B3J 1G6

Ph: 425-5450 ext. 360

Fax: 425-5606

E-mail: [email protected]

Summary of Highlights from June 2013 to May 2014

Held SANS 3rd Annual Learning Symposium and Workshop

Working with Department of Environment on the more than 12% of land

being designated as Wilderness Protected Areas (WPA’s). We are under

pressure from the DOE and our trails may be at risk in certain areas.

Held the 2nd Annual SANS Snow Show with dealer support

Honoured 6 Individuals with Lifetime Achievement Awards who were vital

to SANS over the past 42 years.

Working closely with the ATV association (ATVANS and the off road

motorcycle sector (NSORRA) on a number of cooperative issues related to

trails, regulations, training, education and enforcement. The sharing of our

separate association resources is currently being discussed.

This past winter was great across our province with most areas having the

longest seasons in recent memory. Interestingly we had to issue a safety

bulletin where the snow was up to the high tension wires on the trail and

snowmobiler safety was at risk!

We held a successful segment of the “Maritime Go Snowmobiling” rides with

plenty of government and special invitees taking part. We also had 2 film

crews in the province, 1 print media and gained some traction with local

tourism and arranged a government sponsored film shoot for material to be

used in promoting our sport.

SANS has worked for the past two years on a Trail Strategy and has just

had approval of this at the latest Board meeting. SANS has created a trail

Committee who now has a priority work plan that outlines what needs to be

completed over the next 3 years.

Continue to work with Natural Resources for our Trail Warden’s to have the

authority to write summary offence tickets for snowmobiles on trail without

a permit. We are also working toward a MOU with DNR on each of our

expectations related to trail enforcement.

In order to implement the findings of the SANS Strategic Plan and

Sustainability Study we developed a Tactical Plan which has recently been

approved by the Board of Directors.

A permit review process took place and province wide meetings were held to

explain why an increase to the fees charged was required. We also needed

to change the associated policy(s) on how the funds were dispersed to the

clubs. This process culminated with the approval of the Board.


Municipal government worked with SANS and OHV partners to request a

change in government regulations. We request the ability to be allowed to

use the shoulder of the roadways to access amenities such as gas, fuel

accommodations etc.

SANS held the 2nd Annual Snowmobile Ride For Dad which is a fundraiser

for prostate cancer awareness and research. Attendance was up and our

fundraising was over $25,000.00 to the cause. All attendees had lots of fun

and we see this growing again next year.

For the 2nd year in a row SANS and ATVANS agreed to pay a private

landowner (Wagner Forest Resources) for access to trails on the

approximately 500,000 of acres they control. This situation is unique in that

they use our funds along with their own money to make repairs to trails that

we identify as important. In 2013 $130,000 was spent on trails with Wagner

contributing $80,000 while ATVANS and SANS contributed $50,000

toward the work. We are planning to include the off road motorcycle

association as well in the next agreement.

Again this year we received $50,000 from OHVIF for Small Grant Program

managed by SANS for projects. $5,000 is the maximum contribution from

the SANS controlled fund.

Successful Grant request to IMSA for Video Mike of Snowtrails TV to

come to the province for filming one of his shows.

Permit sales were up approximately 7% this past winter. Great conditions

can be attributed to this. Unfortunately in-province travel and utilization of

accommodations was in decline.

Snow conditions were strange through the winter. Some areas had lots of

snow through the season while others had an early start, lost their base and

then had spring conditions to rival the best of any winter. Overall the

conditions were such that many had limited opportunity to do as much

sledding as they had hoped

Our current challenges haven’t changed and are: low club membership, aging

volunteer base, expensive infrastructure to maintain, limited government

support, trail amenities such as food and lodging closing due to lack of

winter business, increased standards of trail work and bridge construction,

WPA’s (Wilderness Protected Areas), Dept. of Environment and of course

dealing with the expectations that trails will be groomed perfectly every

day!

Report respectfully submitted by Mike Eddy, General Manager of the

Snowmobilers Association of Nova Scotia (SANS)

Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs 1 of 2 June 2014 ISC Report

ONTARIO FEDERATIONOF SNOWMOBILE CLUBS 501 Welham Road, Unit 9, Barrie, Ontario L4N 8Z6

Tel: 705-739-7669 Fax: 705-739-5005 www.ofsc.on.ca

ISC Report – June 2014 Keystone, Colorado

Submitted by Paul Shaughnessy, Executive Director

FAST FACTS

Enjoyment – over 96 % of respondents believe that Ontario snowmobiling is enjoyable, very enjoyable or extremely enjoyable. (2014 Ontario Snowmobiler Preference and Opinion Survey)

Participation ‐ 2014 OFSC snowmobiling participation increased to the highest number of permitted sleds and participants in the last 10 years.

Economic Impact ‐ The economic impact generated by organized snowmobiling in Ontario has grown from $1.2 to $1.7 billion annually since 2005. (2013/14 Economic Impact of Snowmobiling in Ontario – Harry Cummings & Associates)

Season Length ‐ Snowmobiling season length for parts of Ontario topped 24 grooming weeks, with provincial grooming hours approaching 200% of the four year average.

Riding Opportunities ‐ For the better part of the season over 30,000kms of trail were available for great riding experiences throughout the entire province.

Framework For Change Highlights: The OFSC implemented its bold new plan to reinvent Ontario snowmobiling for the 2014 season. This innovative initiative, “A Framework For Change”, contains several key objectives that include addressing declining participation, stemming the downward trend of permit sales and revenues, and reducing club workload by

Mission: The Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs is a volunteer led not‐for‐profit association, which through strong leadership, provides a wide range of quality programs and services to, and on behalf of, its member organizations. Vision: Our provincial network of organized snowmobile trails connects Ontario communities providing responsible riding experiences that are safe, enjoyable, and environmentally sustainable. Values: As a provincial federation, the OFSC succeeds when our members succeed. Consequently, we strive to fully understand and consistently meet the needs and expectations of all our various members. Our decision‐making processes are accountable, transparent, inclusive, timely, provincial in perspective, and respectful of local interests and priorities.

Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs 2 of 2 June 2014 ISC Report

driving more permit sales online. As these 2014 results clearly show, A Framework For Change was a resounding and unqualified success in its first transitional year:

Participation Up: Snowmobilers registered over 104,000 sleds for a 2014 Snowmobile Trail Permit of one type or another. This is the highest number of permitted sleds and participants in the last ten years.

New Participants Up: 2014 participants included more than 10,000 new, full season permit buyers this winter and over 15,000 Try Our Trails Permit registrants (no charge, Family Weekend permit), 75% of whom were new participants.

Permit Sales Up: 2014 full season permit sales (Seasonal + Classic) are up 21% over the 2012/13 season. This is the second highest number of full season permits sold in the last eight years.

Permit Revenue Up: 2014 permit revenue is over $2.2 million more than Framework For Change projections and 13% higher than in 2012/13.

Online Sales Up: Online sales increased 400% this season, with 2/3 of riders doing their permit transactions online.

Winter of 2014: Following a strong finish to the 2013 season, Mother Nature brought an even better gift to Ontario for 2014 – a good, old‐fashioned winter. The benefits to OFSC snowmobiling and snowmobiling tourism in Ontario included:

Every region in Ontario had good to excellent snow conditions for much of the winter.

The first OFSC Prescribed Snowmobile Trails were ready to ride on December 4 and the last closed for the season on April 28 – the longest season in the past decade.

Almost 100% of OFSC Prescribed Snowmobile Trails were open during this winter.

For the first time in many years, some OFSC Prescribed Snowmobile Trails were available for riding during two key vacations periods, the Christmas and Easter Holidays.

Investment in Snowmobiling Tourism: The OFSC benefitted from $1.5 million in provincial government investment for snowmobiling tourism through investment in 35 club and 3 provincial projects. Go Snowmobiling Campaign: In its 8th year, the OFSC Go Snowmobiling Campaign promoted Ontario’s premier winter activity to hundreds of thousands of Ontarians through a radio campaign on 50 radio stations in most Ontario markets that included over 25,000 commercial messages and PSA’s, 10,000 30‐second trail status and Intrepid Snowmobiler reports, and over 6,000 12‐second messages tagged on traffic and weather reports. Groomer Operator Training: During the past season, the OFSC developed and implemented a very successful new online training course mandatory for all groomer operators with 1,610 operators successfully completing the course.

***

2014 ISC/CCSO/IASA Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association Report

2013-2014 snowmobile season saw many positives, along with a few bumps in the trail.

• New snowmobile sales continue to rise • 2nd largest number of snowmobiles registered in a season • 10,000 km of trail opened this season • Snow conditions were good to adequate • On line and classroom mandatory snowmobile safety training continues to be supported • Snowmobile tourist from out of province continues to rise • We are working closely with the Province to see advancements for the 2014/2015 season • Annual snowmobile show continues to grow • Annual 4 Sled Raffle continues to be a success seeing over $80,000 going to our clubs • Annual safety campaign grew this season and an addition of a trespass message coming in

2014/2015 season • Take A Friend Snowmobiling campaign Feb 9 – 25, 2014 was a success, in place for the

2014/2015 season • A few minor bumps in the trail, 60 days below -28 C, early spring in the southern half of the

province, we had hope to open a new trail connecting Saskatchewan and North Dakota, but Mother Nature wouldn’t cooperate.

• All in all we had a good season, numbers are all up and that’s good for snowmobiling in Saskatchewan

Submitted by

Chris Brewer

Pres./ CEO

Saskatchewan Snowmobile Assoc.

South Dakota Snowmobile Program

IASA Annual Report 2013-2014

Outstanding Snowmobile Season in the Black Hills: Snowfall began in early October and was very consistent throughout the winter. South Dakota’s Black Hills trail system saw grooming operations begin on the season opener of December 15 and grooming stayed consistent until March 23 when spring like conditions halted the grooming operations. 32,329 miles of trails were groomed in the Black Hills this season and 2,990 miles were groomed on the Wyoming side of the Black Hills. Snowmobile trail counts were up 32.5% compared to the prior year. Minimal snowfall throughout the winter resulted in limited grooming operations for a majority of the eastern South Dakota Snowmobile clubs. This season, snowmobile clubs groomed, signed and maintained 1,217 miles of trail through the East River Grant-In-Aid program. Grant-In-Aid trail proposals from 15 clubs in Eastern South Dakota totaling approximately $335,000 were tentatively approved in May by the Governor appointed Snowmobile Advisory Council for the 2014-2015 snowmobile season and will be finalized in August by the council. South Dakota's Snowmobile Trails Program is entirely self-sufficient. The Program receives no general tax fund dollars, but instead, relies upon three main income sources:

1. Snowmobile registration fees.

2. Fuel tax reimbursement, which is based upon the number of registered snowmobiles in the state.

3. A 3% initial registration tax on the purchase price of new or used snowmobiles.

Snowmobile Registrations: 14,589 snowmobiles were registered in South Dakota for Fiscal Year 2014. Registration numbers are down 2% compared to the previous Fiscal Year 2013. Motorcycle Snowmobile Trail Pass: This was the first season that the motorcycle snowmobile trail pass was sold. 13 permits were sold to individuals that modified machines in order to meet the definition of a snowmobile in South Dakota:

Any resident owner who has titled a motorcycle which has been modified to comply with the definition of a snowmobile for use as a snowmobile on a state snowmobile trail or area established pursuant to the provisions of chapter 41-19 may purchase an annual permit valid from December first to March thirty-first, inclusive, for a fee of twenty dollars. The permit shall be affixed to the motorcycle on the right side of the unit and shall be clearly visible. The Department of Game, Fish and Parks shall collect the annual permit fee imposed by this section and shall deposit the fees in the snowmobile trails fund South Dakota Snowmobile Association Governor’s Ride: SDSA and the Game, Fish and Parks Department hosted the 34th Annual Governor’s ride out of Hardy Camp in the Black Hills. A record crowd was in attendance. SDSA was proud to host 210 snowmobilers including 41 legislators for the ride held annually over President’s Day Weekend. Accident Reports: 34 accidents were reported during the season with one fatality (not trail related.) A majority of the accidents occurred in the Black Hills and were due to excessive speed and failure to negotiate a corner. Submitted By: Tony Schmitt Trails Program Specialist South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Division of Parks and Recreation

Wyoming State Snowmobile Program

IASA Annual Report 2013-2014

ABOVE AVERAGE! That is the story of our year here in Wyoming. The Wyoming Statewide Snowpack was 163% of normal. Just recently May 5th, 2014 the Snowy Range received 42” of snow in a 48 hour period. The Togwotee/Dubois area had a daily average snowfall of 8” every day from January 28 – March 6. There were only 2 days during this 36 day stretch that it did not snow. Everybody had a great time with all of the snow, although it did make our staff and our grooming contractors work a little more difficult.

Grooming: The State of Wyoming manages 2,573 miles of designated snowmobile trail. Utilizing 9 grooming contractors operating 17 snow cats and 8 state employees operating another 8 snow cats, we completed 65,040 miles of trail grooming this year. In order for the snow cat operators to find their way through all of this snow, our 6 man trail crew installed and maintained roughly 33,000 temporary snow poles/trail markers. The vast majority of these trails are on National Forest Service lands, with a very small percentage (1-2%) of these trails crossing BLM, State or Private Lands.

Registration/User Fee: We have sold 31,019 2013-2014 snowmobile registration/user fee decals. Of those, 16,989 were non-resident user fees and 14,030 were resident registrations. We have been selling roughly 33,000 decals for the last couple of years. We expect to see a slight increase this year, based on reports from a couple of our big selling agents that tell us that they are up 16-20% over last year.

Safety: This year kicked off a new era of Avalanche safety and training. We worked with the Bridger Teton Avalanche center in Jackson WY to apply for an RTP Grant for avalanche training. They were awarded $68,000 for two years to provide free avalanche training classes to back country users across the state. The BTAC provided avalanche awareness presentations that were funded by a 2013 RTP grant on 16 occasions during the 2013/14 season. Over 500 people attended these presentations. They included avalanche training classes to seven snowmobile clubs, two search and rescue groups, six outfitter guide courses (including one to dog sled guides), two fireside chats to the public at Togwotee Mountain Lodge, a presentation and field session to a University of Wyoming Outdoor Course and an avalanche hazard presentation at the BLM office in Kemmerer.

RTP Grants/Funding: Almost one million dollars of RTP funds were used to purchase three new Tucker Sno-Cats and pay for the major grooming contracts for the State of Wyoming.

Maps: We printed and distributed 74,000 State Snowmobile Trail Maps to vendors, lodges, local municipalities and other locations across the state this past year. There is a separate map for each of the four main snowmobiling regions across the state.

Law Enforcement: The USFS applies for “Trail Ranger Grants” through the State Trails in order to provide funding for Forest personnel to patrol the trail heads, trails and wilderness boundaries.

Legislation: This past legislative season was a productive one for the future of the Wyoming Snowmobile Program. The Wyoming State Snowmobile Association, made up of members from snowmobile clubs around the state, lobbied the legislature for a $10 fee increase. After much deliberation, the $10 fee increase passed and was signed by Governor Matt Mead. The current $25 registration/user fee will increase to $35 this next year. Snowmobile Club members, lodge owners and members of the general public provided support for this bill. The commercial registration fee was also increased from $75 to $105. Due to the uncertainty of the future of RTP funding, the increase in fees for the Wyoming Snowmobile Program will be significant.

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