With snowmobile season just a few weeks away, the New York State Snowmobile Association is reminding snowmobilers local trails are not considered officially open until the local club has inspected and cleared trails for the 2012-13 season.
Although the snowmobile season won’t begin until after the hunting season ends in late December, NYSSA is encouraging all snowmobilers to use this time to join their local clubs and register their sled.
"Our recent economic impact study shows that our sport contributes $868 million to the state economy," Executive Director of NYSSA Dominic Jacangelo said. "We work with local municipalities and landowners to provide riding options for our members as well as identifying opportunities to work with local businesses to ensure services are available to our club members."
Snowmobilers are encouraged to visit www.nysnowmobiler.com for information on clubs as well as the latest news on snowmobiling in New York State.
"Our number one priority is safety. That’s why we ask everyone to reach out to their local club before hitting the trails for the first time," Trail Coordinator for NYSSA Jim Rolf said. "Trails continually change as clubs continue necessary maintenance. Our local clubs are working to inspect and repair these trails in order to ensure a safe experience throughout the season."
NYSSA encourages all snowmobilers to abide by all the safety regulations and to refrain from consuming any amount of alcohol until they have parked their snowmobiles for the day. "Operating a snowmobile safely requires drivers to be alert and focused at all times," NYSSA President Gary Broderick said.
"Don’t invite something bad to happen by riding beyond your skill level or consuming any amount of alcohol before your riding is done."
Before having fun with family and friends enjoying the natural beauty of New York State, riders should use this time to have their club memberships and registrations completed.
The New York State Snowmobile Association, a non-profit corporation, is the largest snowmobile association in the country working on behalf of the registered New York snowmobile owners, who contribute $868 million to the New York State economy, and 242 snowmobile clubs to improve trails, facilities and services for participants, and defend snowmobilers against discriminatory legislation.
