The Sudbury Trail Plan Association (STP) announced recently the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) has designated the week of Nov. 25 to Dec. 1, 2006 as Get Ready for Snowmobiling Week.
"With the start of the upcoming snowmobile season only a few
short weeks away, snowmobilers are reminded that now is the
time to perform pre-season inspections and make any necessary
repairs to their snowmobiles, trailers, and associated
equipment," said STP President Gilles Tessier in a news
release. "Time spent now will only increase the enjoyment of
their winter excursions and ensure maximum safety for
themselves and others."
Recommendations made by OFSC and STP also include checking
snowmobile registrations and insurance policies to ensure they
are current. Clothing and safety equipment should be inspected
and replaced as necessary to ensure proper operation.
"Snowmobiling is an off-road activity and as such riders need
to recognize and be prepared for any associated risks they may
encounter through riding choices they have made," states
Tessier.
While riders are preparing their equipment, over 6,000
volunteers representing 240 clubs province-wide are busy
preparing trails. Locally, riders can use any of the
1,200-kilometres of local trails maintained by the STP and its
eight member clubs, as well as the 41,000 km of OFSC prescribed
trails by purchasing and displaying on their sled a 2006-2007
Snowmobile Trail Permit.
"Snowmobile Trail Permits are the most significant source of
revenue for snowmobile clubs each season," states Tessier.
"Each permit sold allows us to groom trails more frequently
thus making the overall riding experience more enjoyable and
potentially safer."
Permits also identify that only authorized snowmobilers are
legally utilizing the land provided to OFSC member clubs by
over 15,000 landowners.
Permits are available through the local snowmobile clubs and at
over 25 authorized permit outlets throughout the City of
Greater Sudbury. Buyers can save $50 by purchasing their permit
by Dec. 1 at the same pre-season price of $180 offered last
year.
For further information, at 693-7669 (SNOW) or by visit
www.sudburytrailplan.on.ca
.
