Utah Snow Scoop - December 2016

DECEMBER 2016 VOLUME 25 ISSUE 3

IN THIS ISSUE: Snofitters - Page 10 SLVSC News - Page 17 Volunteers Team Up - Page 21

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Cal Taylor, President

Lisa Kowalewski, Treasurer

1236 South 1800 West Syracuse, UT 84075 801-882-8659 calandgena@gmail.com

1794 North 6250 East Eden, UT 84310 801-745-6138 treasurer@snowut.org

Dennis Kowalewski,

Jay Ombach, Executive Director

Vice President

1794 North 6250 East Eden, UT 84310 801-745-6138

Russ Mangone, Secretary

2260 West 4805 South Taylorsville, UT 84118 801-969-7335 slvsnow@gmail.com

2159 North 550 West Layton, UT 84041 801-825-1164 jayo@beacon-metals.com

Curt Kennedy, Director–Public Lands

302 South Maryfield Drive Salt Lake City, UT 84108 801-582-3882 ccklpk@gmail.com

CLUB DIRECTORY Golden Spike Snowmobile Association

Salt Lake Valley Snowmobile Club

Jeffery Eddings, President 2645 East 7800 South South Weber, UT 84405 801-510-7791 ridegssa@yahoo.com

Les Thompson, President 2760 N 1650 E Layton, UT 84040 801-771-8748 slvsnow@outlook.com

Chalk Creek Riders

Davis County Snowmobile Club

Wes Blonquist, President P.O. Box 385 Coalville, UT 84017 435-336-4496 wesntrac@allwest.net

Eston Kimber West Center Street #91 North Salt Lake, UT 84054 801-244-8172 sledguy163@gmail.com

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Stacey Eddings, Snow Scoop Coordinator and Awards/Charity

2645 East 7800 South South Weber, UT 84405 801-510-7796 utahsnowscoop@yahoo.com

Chris Haller, State Parks Representative

P.O. Box 146001 Salt Lake City, UT 84114 801-349-0487 chrishaller@utah.gov

USA BUSINESS MEMBERS Frank May Ski-Doo 6740 North Hwy. 38 (Honeyville) Brigham City, UT 84302 www.frankmayskidoo.com Brandin’ Iron Inn 201 N Canyon St. West Yellowstone, MT 59758

Utah State Parks 1594 W North Temple STE 116 Salt Lake City, UT 84116 www.stateparks.utah.gov Weller Recreation 936 W 200 S Kamas, UT 84036

Flying Saddle 118878 US Hwy 89 & 26 Alpine, WY 83128

FIND THE SNOWFLAKE INSIDE THIS ISSUE AND YOU COULD WIN! Last issues winner was Dennis Kowalewski. Congratulatiosn!

E-mail the location to utahsnowscoop@yahoo.com and you’ll be entered into a drawing to win a $50 America First Visa Gift Card. Winner will be notified by e-mail and drawing to be held on January 11, 2017.

Must be a USA member to participate.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 GSSA NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 SNOFITTERS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 DCSC NEWS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 CHALK CREEK RIDERS CLUB DECEMBER 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 SLVSC NEWS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 PARTNER ACTION ALERT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TRAILS STEWARDSHIP ACT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 VOLUNTEERS TEAM UP TO PREPARE FOR SNOWMOBILE SEASON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 2ND ANNUAL POKER RIDE FUNDRAISER AND DINNER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

DISCLAIMER USA is Utah’s advocate for snowmobiling! As the voice of over 26,000 registered sled owners in Utah, the Snow Scoop is USA’s official publication.

All contents of the Utah Snow Scoop are copyrighted and may not be reprinted without permission.

Submitted articles and advertising do not necessarily represent the opinion of USA or the Utah Snow Scoop.

The Utah Snow Scoop is not liable for any claims by those not of the same opinion.

The Utah Snow Scoop welcomes articles, letters, pictures and advertisements.

Please submit all material in electronic format by the respective issue due dates to the Snow Scoop Coordinator.

Articles should be .doc files and advertisements should be .jpg, .tiff, .psd, .ai, or .pdf files.

ISSUE DEADLINE RELEASE DATE October September 28 October 12 November November 2 November 16 December December 7 December 21 Winter January 11 January 25 March February 28 March 22 The Utah Snow Scoop is owned and published by the Utah Snowmobile Association.

The Snow Scoop coordinator is Stacey Eddings. She may be reached at: Utah Snow Scoop 2645 East 7800 South South Weber, UT 84405 801-510-7796 utahsnowscoop@yahoo.com For current Snow Scoop advertising rates, please click here or visit http://www.snowut.com/

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

by Cal Taylor

Christmas is here! I hope your season is merry and bright and we enjoy the holidays with family and friends. As president of the Utah Snowmobile Association, I have written a song that I hope you all will enjoy, it sings to the tune of Jingle Bells: Dashing thru the snow, on a 150hp sleigh Over the hills we go, laughing all the way Bells on a bobsled ring, making paint jobs bright What fun it is to sing, this sledding song tonight!

This marks my two favorite seasons: The Christmas holiday season and the snowmobiling season! It’s always better when the two get mixed in and can be done at the same time. It’s been a very busy fall for me and not much has been done on anything other than hanging holiday lights for work. I’m ready to see my family, hang out with extended family and friends and of course focus on all things snowmobiling for a while. I hope the rest of you are ready to hit the ground sledding as we have many things going on.

•• Be sure to perform any maintenance on your vehicles, trailers and sleds so your memorable time won’t be on the side of road.

•• Be aware of each snowmobile registration and any club or association dues or subscriptions that need to be paid up.

•• Parking passes at Monte Cristo have been changed to be included in the State Parks Annual Pass. Day passes are available at the entrance of the lot.

•• The snowut.com website is being updated and payments along with other information and member features will be back on track.

•• Many club rides begin in January. Join a club or grab some friends and start one of your own.

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•• The 2nd annual Poker Run will be held at Strawberry Marina on January 28th 2017.

•• Trail Host program. Clubs or groups can help manage trailheads.

What are some of the traditions you and your family do during the holiday season? One of my favorites is our Annual Christmas Tree Hunt.

“This year’s hunt was a memorable one for sure. We had several feet of fresh snow in the mountains of Utah the first weekend of December; an amazing sight with thoughts of soft pillows and bottomless fields of fresh powder dancing in my head. As the day grew closer and the hunt was on, I needed to tame the beasts of winters past to wrestle the magnificent trophy to put on display in my living room. The excitement was there as I transferred the beasts from their pen to my truck in hopes that the hunt would not leave us stuck or without the fortunes we had been looking for. As we traveled northward into the land of Idaho, the color of the ground changed from white to brown, yet the fierceness of the wind led us to believe that we were in the dead of winter. We happened upon the gatekeeper at the beginning of the long winding road to nowhere. With a plethora of personal information and gold left to the gatekeeper, we had our tag and treasure map in hand. The road to the top of nowhere was steep, snow covered and a sure death with one wrong move. The hunting dogs and hunters in training were anxiously awaiting the summit for the surety of instant pleasure upon arrival. The top was uninviting with howling winds and frigid temperatures that encompassed every inch of my body. The beasts were unloaded from the truck and the dogs and hunters in training were ready for combat. The beasts roared down the canyon in search of the perfect fit. “Stop! Over there!” one of the young hunters exclaimed! As

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we unmounted to take a closer look, it seemed to be the perfect match. “Wait! Look at this one over here!” shouted another hunter. “Well, let’s look around the corner and see if we can find something better,” said the Snow Goddess.

Once again the beasts roared onward thru the forest, this time finding that the herd had been decimated and all that was left was the carcasses of where they once stood tall and mighty. It was time to turn around, back to where we had seen several others on the hill. A quick scamper to site revealed a similar finding of greener grass on the other side and better trees. The evening was setting into darkness and the moment would soon be lost. With a skilled pull of the saw our kill had been made. A quick slide to the trail made for a quick getaway on our beasts with tree in tow. Once again we returned to the summit and loaded the beasts for our journey homeward.

Feeling exhausted, our young hunters had smiles on their faces as we tarried back to town.”

May your holidays be bright and cheery and I hope to see you in the backcountry.

Cal Taylor President Utah Snowmobile Association

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GSSA NEWS

by Debbie Hudman

We’re off to a good snow start. Let’s hope it just keeps coming. The quick fall in temperature was a bit of a shock but expected—it is winter.

A small group of GSSA members had a fun activity in November. Our Club Ambassador, Bruce Grandin reported that they got a fantastic education at Dustin Sweeten’s Snowmobile Museum in Lindon and Legends Motorcycle shop in Springville. Dustin has over 400 vintage sleds in various conditions. He has one of the largest Rupp collections in the country.

He and his Dad have been collecting sleds since the 70’s. Dustin’s day job is running Power House Motor Sports where they provide parts, repair and restore snowmobiles, ATV’s and motorcycles. Dustin’s other passion is cars. The highlight of the visit was a ride in his stretch hot rod. It holds 12 passengers.

Larry Ramsey fell in love with a 1965 Goat, GTO, that was for sale. Dustin took him for a ride and Larry was hooked. Unfortunately, the car had just sold. They then went to Springville and had lunch and took a tour through Rick Salisbury’s Legends, an amazing motorcycle shop that specializes in vintage American bikes. He has two restaurants, a barbershop, museum, art gallery, gift shop, and restoration shop. They got to see a 1907 Harley that Rick paid over a million bucks for. There are only three that are known to exist in the world. It was a great adventure and members thank Jeff and Stacey for organizing this get together.

Our Christmas party this year will be held at the home of new members Gary and Kim Goodnuff. If you’d like to join us, feel free to call President Jeff at 801-510-7791 to RSVP and volunteer for a pot luck dish.

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Now on to the fun stuff—riding! We will hold our Annual Ride at West Yellowstone this year from February 17-February 21, 2017. Call The Brandin’ Iron Inn at 406-646-9411 for reservations. This is always a great area to ride and we welcome all to join us.

We are making plans for the Martin Luther King weekend and are thinking of making a 5-day weekend out of it. If you think you can keep up with us, call and we’ll give you details of where we’ll be—we’ll know by the time this hits print.

We’ll have a ride schedule out shortly. Feel free to check our Website at ridegssa.org for the dates and locations. We look forward to lots of fun and laughs and hope you can join us.

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SNOFITTERS

by Weylin Richards

Snowmobiling has been a way of life for co-owners Weylin Richards and Derek Proctor of SnoFitters.com having nearly thirty years of combined snowmobiling expertise. Even though they harass each other for their sled choices (Richards rides SkiDoo and Proctor rides Polaris), they both wanted to build a company to help everyone access a sled and high-quality snow gear. SnoFitters believes in three main components for a successful company. The first is to support and utilize local snowmobiling clubs. The second is bring innovation to the industry with tried and tested products. And lastly, to always expand their product line to fit the needs of their customers.

The creation of the “SnoVenture Giveaway” is a large part of SnoFitters. For every $5 spent on SnoFitters gear, this enters people to win a ride. For this giveaway, there is a choice of 2016 SkiDoo 800 Summit X with a 174” track, a 2016 Polaris 800 Pro-RMK with a 155” track, and a 2012 KTM Enduro 300 XC with a 2016 Timbersled Mountain Horse Short Track Snow Bike Package. For all you Artic Cat or Yamaha riders, don’t give up hope just yet! They will continue to offer giveaways in the future. Their merchandise is oneof-a-kind with hoodies, hats, shirts and snowmobile and snow bike accessories. They also specialize in snowmobile wraps meant for a distinctive look for your ride, tailored to snowmobilers and snow bikers.

SnoFitters is also a dealer for IceRock and Strikt gear and many avalanche safety vendors. IceRock is a division of Choko Design Powersports that specifically specializes in extreme snow gear. IceRock is known for their Nortex material which keeps riders warm and dry. It is a no-sweat breathable, windproof, waterproof material.

IceRock has both men and women’s sizes in various colors.

Strikt is another clothing line that specializes in both snow and dirt gear. Their snow gear is top of the line, with unique colors, designs, and incorporating SledTec AR8 fabric. Their Faeder Bib is especially designed for snow bike riders with genuine leather inner legs to protect from exhaust or aggressive running boards. Check out their website at SnoFitters.com for more on sizes and colors of each brand.

SnoFitters also sells Highmark by SnowPulse Avalanche bags and accessory items. Richards and Proctor are committed to safety in the mountains and want everyone to make it back to their loved ones. With the Spire, Ridge, Pro or Vest there is a safety backpack or vest for everyone with every need. SnoFitters also sells BCA bags, probes, and radios. Being prepared is the best way to face adventure.

6740 HWY 38 | Honeyville Exit | Brigham City, UT 84302

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SnoFitters also recognizes that snow gear of any type is a costly investment and most riders just want to be warm when riding.

No matter what machine you are on, being wet and cold is no way to ride and enjoy the sport. SnoFitters offers a layaway plan for riders who want to pay monthly for their gear. With no money down or credit check, payments are spread out for three months, making gear available to all. By doing this, they encourage positive vibes on the mountain in gear which keeps you warm and you can afford. Give SnoFitters. com a try.

There’s ‘Winter Fun’ and then There’s

Winter Fun at the gates of Bryce {Exclusively at Ruby’s Inn}

The closest lodging to Bryce Canyon

DCSC NEWS

by Eston Kimber

The Davis County Snowmobile Club has had a fun and busy fall season, in preparation for this season.

The Intermountain Snowmobile Show is done and put away for another year. Our opening social was a great success, with over 85 people in attendance.

The Club’s family style Boondocker’s premier is also in the books and was another success. Our Christmas party was also a fun get together with over 70 club members and kids in attendance.

With all that behind us now, we can concentrate on what brings us all here; SNOW and Snowmobiling.

A handful of the DCSC members inked up for new rides this season. We have all taken delivery, and have been out for some “break in miles” a time or two, and we already have a victim of thin snow.

The tree won and the A-arm lost. Speaking for the others, I can’t wait to get my new sled in some deep snow and see what it can really do! We have a very mixed bag of sleds in our club. From Polaris to Yamaha (and everything in between). It’s always a good time ribbing the next guy about the whale, tank, baby grand or ship anchor he or she rides. We have one club member that owns over 30 machines.

He has a collector’s problem- can’t have too many!

Membership is up in the DCSC this season. We are up a modest 32% in memberships from last season.

Cr oss Count r y Sk iing | Ice Sk at ing | Snowshoeing Winter Photography | Hotels | General Store

RUBYSINN.COM 866.866.6616

Planned events for the Club: •• January 7 – Club ride – TBD •• January 14 – Cowan Ride (Timber Lakes) •• January 28 – USA Poker Run Fundraiser •• February 11—Camp Kostopulos Ride in Kamas •• February 11 – Club ride after the Camp K ride (Soap Stone Basin) •• February 22-26—Annual Ride in Pine Idaho •• March 4th - Club ride at Wolf Creek Pass (Nobletts PL) •• April 1st - Club ride at Strawberry Ridge •• April 3—Closing Social / Elections (Location TBA) We hope to see you on the snow this month!

We have a lot planned out and we’re anxious to get after it!

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The Utah Snowmobile Association will be hosting it’s 2nd annual Poker Run Fundraiser on January 28th at Strawberry Bay Marina. Ride will start at 9:00 a.m. from the Strawberry Bay Marina parking lot and will conclude at 3:00 p.m. at the Strawberry Bay Marina Lodge.

All-You-Can-Eat Prime Rib or Turkey dinner will be served around 4:30 p.m.

***Dinner limited to the first 75 people who sign-up***

Thousands of dollars in Raffle Prizes!!!!

10% Discount on Room Rates and Snowmobile Rentals for Participants Reservations must be made prior to December 17th Call Claire at 801-616-1164 to make your room reservation Ride/Dinner/Poker Card (Members) - $40.00 Ride/Dinner/Poker Card (Non- Members) - $50.00 Poker Cards - $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00 Raffle Tickets - $1.00 each or $20 for an arm length

Event open to the public. Dinner not required to participate. For information or to sign up please contact Russ Mangone at 801-518-1825 or visit www.snowut.com or our Facebook page!

1st Place - $300 2nd Place - $200 3rd Place - $100 Worst Hand - $50

CHALK CREEK RIDERS CLUB DECEMBER 2016 The Chalk Creek Riders Club was formed in 2005 with the mission statement of keeping the trail access open to year round and multi-use travel from the State Corner of Utah/Wyoming to the Whitney area of the Wasatch-Cache National Forest. The trail is approximately 18 miles of road/snowmobile trail and please “No Trespassing� on the adjacent private property which is both sides of the 18 mile road/trail.

The club has been extremely busy this year with appropriating funds for enhancing the trail and also helping with maintenance on the Whitney warming hut along with our normal trail maintenance.

In early November the club did its annual trail marking, clean-up and fallen tree removal with help from Utah State Parks. In mid-November certain club members installed a complete new chimney for the wood stove at the Whitney warming hut. We have also been working with the Polaris Foundation on appropriating funds for better signage and snow fencing along the trail for both safety and enhancement. The trail has a bunch of hazards that need better signage and also installation of snow fencing to eliminate extreme snow drifting/moguls on the Rigby ridge. The signage and snow fencing will continue through 2017 as some of this will need summer weather to install.

Special thanks to the following groups and individuals for what they do, as without these folks donating time, money and patience we wouldn’t have such a great trail.

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•• Special thanks to Summit County Search and Rescue for all their help with appropriating the fire wood and helping fund for the new stove pipe for the Whitney warming hut.

•• Special thanks to Utah State Parks for helping with trail marking, fallen tree removal and grooming of the trail.

•• Special thanks to all the club members that helped with trail maintenance and grooming in 2016 and a very special thanks to Whit and Mark Oldham for Whitney warming hut new chimney install.

•• Special thanks to Wasatch-Cache Evanston/Mt. View Ranger District for allowing the continued use of the Whitney warming hut.

•• Special thanks to Summit County on continued snow removal at the Chalk Creek trail head.

•• Special thanks to adjacent land owners for patience on trespass issues.

•• Special thanks to the Polaris Foundation for the cash contribution for maintenance, signage & additional snow fencing. This will improve overall safety of the trail for all users.

•• Special thanks to all those users of the trail that play by the rules!

Changes and Safety Concerns while traveling in 2016-2017 on the Chalk Creek to Whitney Trail.

The adjacent private property landowners along the trail have been fencing parcels of their property,

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FLYINGSADDLERESORT.COM so again it makes it imperative to stay on the trail.

The fences are not lay down fences which means exposed steel posts and wire posing a safety concern if not on the trail. The trail has been marked appropriately when utilizing the trail to avoid these hazards. There are also five cattle guards that have also been installed which have also been marked.

Please be careful!! Please stay on the road/trail until you get to the forest boundary at the Whitney area.

The trespassing has been a big issue over the years on the adjacent private property especially in the Florence Creek of the Chalk Creek & Little West Fork of Bear River drainages and continues to be an issue today and MUST STOP! The continued use of this area depends upon all of us playing by the rules!

A few pictures included of club rides, trail maintenance, and new Whitney warming hut stove pipe install and clean-up.

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SLVSC NEWS

by Les Thompson

I would like to introduce you to one of our club members Chris Maria. I have known Chris for 3 years and to this day I have never seen him without a smile on his face. This man is always in a good mood no matter what life throws at him.

Chris has a unique prospective on life much different than most of us who grew up in a nation of plenty.

Let me give you a little back ground on Chris, he grew up in France in the 70’s and early 80’s, where you can work hard even working multiple job at the same time and still not be able to provide some of the basic needs for your family, i.e. a home of your own, good education for your children and most of all a sense of accomplishment for yourself and your family, These are just a few of the things we all take for granted here in the USA.

snowmobiling. From that point on he was hooked.

Chris’s first sled was an Artic Cat 440 and he spent more time getting it unstuck than riding it, which lead him to upgrade to a better sled more suited to the type of riding we have here in the mountains and as usual for Chris he had to modify it by putting a long track on it.

In the early days of Chris’s snowmobiling days he belonged to a club based out of Highland which has since disbanded, Robyn enjoyed the club but the snowmobiling, as with most wives, was a bit too much and much too cold.

Chris has two lovely daughters Tiffany and Emylee along with a son Joshua, the girls have shown little interest but the same is not true for Josh. On a snowmobile Josh is a holy terror. I have learned by experience anytime Josh is behind me whether I’m All the time Chris was growing up he and his family going up through the trees, across a field or on the would hear stories about the land of plenty across trail don’t stop because he will run you over and the ocean, so in 1984 Chris’s father took a leap of not look back. faith and sold everything the family owned and moved Chris along with his family to the USA, Chris About 3 years ago Chris knew he needed to find a group to ride with, knowing far well how unsafe it being 14 at the time. was to ride alone. He found our club at the snow Arriving in the USA, neither parents were able to show and when I asked him what drew him to our speak English, a long way from everything they club he told me the connection he made with the came to know and in a strange country. Not knowing member running the booth. anyone and still at the airport they were speaking among themselves when a stranger over heard them When I asked Chris what is the one thing he would speaking French. That stranger opened his home like to share with the readers and his response was and gave the Maria family a place to live until they everyone needs to join a club for an array of reasons, but first and foremost safety never, never ride alone. could get themselves on their own feet.

When you ride with a group if the unexpected Shortly after arriving, Chris’s father was able to get happens, whether you get stuck, break down, get work and get a car. Within a year, after much hard hurt, get lost or the unthinkable get caught in an work, the family was able to buy a home in California avalanche, there is someone there to help. This where they were living. may make the difference of you returning home to In 1992 Chris met the love of his life Robyn. The your loved ones. Secondly by belonging to a club it following year in pursuit of a dream, Chris moved to gives you’re a voice on how this beautiful playground that we all enjoy is used, because without the many Utah where he and Robyn were married. voices of the member of the clubs the right to use After buying a home in Lehi, in 1999 a good these lands will most certainly be taken away. neighbor of Chris’s introduced him to the world of

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AMERICAN COUNCIL OF SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATIONS

National News December 2016

Who is ACSA? ACSA is the National Organization that fights for our rights as snowmobilers and as citizens of the United States. Many groups feel they should be the only ones that are allowed to use lands that your tax dollars pay for.

We fight against precedent setting decisions that can be used on the Federal and State Level barring you from using the lands you pay for.

Want to know more about ACSA?  www.snomwobilers.org  Facebook.com/ AmericanCouncilofSnowmobileAssociations  www.snowmobileinfo.org  When You Visit Our Website, Please Click on Our Ad Sponsors (at the top of the page), which helps us generate revenue. Thank you.

ACSA is a Charitable Organization making your donations tax deductible. There are several ways you can get involved. Become a friend of ACSA: http://www.snowmobilers.org/friend-ofacsa.aspx. You can help, at no cost to you, by registering ACSA as your charity of choice when you shop online at www.smile. amazon.com, www.iGive. com and www.good shop.com.

Congress Gives Outdoor Recreation and Early Christmas Present!

In the lame duck session, the outdoor recreation community received an early holiday gift! The U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Outdoor REC Act! The bill was led by Senators Cory Gardner (RCO) and Jeanne Shaheen (DNH) with a total of 15 cosponsors. The bill had passed the House on November 14, where it received bipartisan support, with 13 Republican and 12 Democrat cosponsors.

The bill will formally assess and analyze the outdoor recreation economy in the United States – which supports an estimated 6 million jobs and generates $646

billion in economic activity annually. Congress’ action is necessary to make sure the outdoor economy receives official government recognition for years to come. Federal agencies play an important role in outdoor recreation, managing lands and waters which host more than a billion recreation visits each year. The Outdoor REC Act will help shape good choices in allocating federal funds through the budget process and in investing private funds which enhance recreation on public lands and waters.

Scholarship Info The Bill Townsend Memorial Access Scholarship— $5000—See www.snowmobiler s.org for more info.

C.J. Ramsted Memorial Scholarship—$1000—See www.snowmobile media.org State and Chapter Scholarships: Please see www.snowmobiler s.org, Our Community Tab

The bill is now on the President's desk where it awaits his signature.

Marlys Knutson, Hall of Fame Snowmobiler and Polaris Legend announces retirement Marlys Knutson has announced her intent to retire at the end of the year, after 33 years with Polaris. Since joining the company in 1983, she has served in a variety of roles, including Marketing Communications, Government Relations, and Corporate Communications. In recognition of her dedication and contributions to the company, Marlys was inducted into the Polaris Hall of Fame in 2008.

“Polaris and snowmobiling have been my passion for more than half of my life,” said Knutson. “The lifelong friendships I’ve made around the globe are special and it’s been my pleasure to work together with the best team in power-sports and watch the tremendous growth and diversification of Polaris. While I am moving on to the next phase of my life, I hope to continue to be involved with the snowmobile community.”

You know Marlys if you’ve ever been to the International Snowmobile Congress—And/or heard of the Thirsty Dogs. We look forward to spending time with Marlys for many years to come!

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WYOMING - Snow Devils and Snow King Mountain Resort Need Your Support!

The Snow Devils and Snow King Mountain Resort, where the World Championship Snowmobile Hill Climb is held each year, are asking for your support.

Snow King Mountain has proposed its Phase 2 Development Plan to the Town of Jackson and the U.S. Forest Service and would like your support.

GREAT FINANCING

††

OFFER ENDS OCTOBER 31, 2016 FIND OUT MORE AT SKI-DOO.COM

By signing their petition you are showing your support for the U.S. Forest Service to move forward with the National Environmental Protection Act process and complete an Environmental Impact Study (EIS) on the proposed improvements to the mountain. Read the letter. Please sign the petition or send your letters of support in before December 31, 2016. Letters of support can be sent to Snow King Mountain, 100 East Snow King Ave, PO Box 1846, Jackson, WY 83001.

The EIS will allow for public comments and for the USFS to provide feedback on the plan--both positive and where there might be concerns. The outcome of the study will then allow Snow King Mountain, the Town of Jackson and the USFS to make decisions on whether to move forward with the plans implementing adjustments as needed, or even decide not to pursue the improvements.

See their email below on how you can HELP. Thanks in advance and, as always, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact BRC. Ric Foster Public Lands Department Manager BlueRibbon Coalition 208-237-1008 ext. 2

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Dealer Imprint Goes Here

© 2016 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. This offer is valid in the U.S.A. and in Canada only at participating Ski-Doo® dealers on new and unused Ski-Doo snowmobiles. (excluding racing models and units sold under the Spring Fever promotion) purchased, delivered and registered between August 1, 2016 and October 31, 2016.

The terms and conditions may vary depending on your state and these offers are subject to termination or change at any time without notice. See your Ski-Doo dealer for details. † Get up to $1,500 on select 2016 models: Eligible units are select new and unused 2016 Ski-Doo® models. Rebate amount depends on the model purchased. While quantities last. †† GREAT FINANCING: Low financing rates are available.

Subject to credit approval. Approval and any rates and terms provided are based on credit worthiness. Multiple financing offers available. Other qualifications and restrictions may apply. Financing promotion void where prohibited. BRP is not responsible for any errors, changes or actions related to the financing provided by the financial institutions.

NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TRAILS STEWARDSHIP ACT

by Curt Kennedy, USA Director, Public Lands Anyone recreating on public lands in the last decade has undoubtedly noticed the ailing infrastructure (trails, roads, campgrounds etc.), in addition to an overall decrease in the general health of the forests.

This is largely a result of constrained budgets of land management agencies, particularly in the Forest Service. One of the end results of this dilemma is a “close it off because we can’t manage it” mentality. There is a unique Bill that was signed by the President on November 28, 2016 that may go a long way toward reducing the backlog of projects that exist within our National Forests.

The official title is “National Forest System Trails Stewardship Act” that amazingly went through the Senate with no changes from the House version.

In a nut-shell this Bill directs the Department of Agriculture to publish a national strategy to significantly increase the role of volunteers and partners in trail maintenance. The strategy shall: •• Augment and support the capabilities of federal employees to carry out or contribute to trail maintenance; •• Provide opportunities for volunteers and partners to carry out trail maintenance in each region of the Forest Service; •• Address barriers to increased volunteerism and partnerships; •• Prioritize increased volunteerism and partnerships in those regions with the most severe trail maintenance needs and where backlogs are jeopardizing access to nation forest lands; and •• Aim to increase trail maintenance by volunteers and partners by 100% within five years.

Utah State Parks

There are many other stipulations within the Bill that deal with volunteer administration, safety, liability, prioritization of projects (including public input), and follow-up evaluation of the effectiveness of the overall concept. However, suffice it to say this Bill certainly appears to be a step in the right direction for taping into a resource that has long been stifled by the bureaucracy within a federal government agency. As you recreate with family, friends, clubs and other organizations keep in mind this upcoming change within the tool kit of Forest Service management and see how you can make a difference. It can be fun and instills an incredible sense of accomplishment.

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VOLUNTEERS TEAM UP TO PREPARE FOR SNOWMOBILE SEASON

by Nathan Turner

Winter is coming in with a bang and the season is looking to be a good one. Especially with the help from volunteers who have helped mark trails from the Utah Snowmobile Association, the Davis County Snowmobile Club along with some independent volunteers and State Park and Forrest Service employees.

Trail marking helps keep trails safe by keeping riders away form dangerous and hazardous areas, it also helps the snow groomers to stay on track. Volunteers helped with trail marking on the Cold Springs trail in Soapstone on 9/24/2016 with about 15 inches of snow at the top Cal Taylor was able to get his first ride in for the season. In October we had two trail marking events along the Mud Creek Trail and the Coop Creek Trail at Strawberry Reservoir. We would like to give special thanks to the volunteers, who came out to help; they are a fundamental asset to the OHV program. Volunteers set good examples for others to follow and help keep trails safe for the OHV community. Also, a special thanks to Jordanelle State Parks Ranger Jacob Hinton and Chris Johnson, the USFS staff from the Heber-Kamas Ranger District and Ranger Aaron Hone from Rockport State Park.

From our friends at Tread Lightly, Ride Hard and Tread Lightly. Being responsible doesn’t mean being boring. Have a blast out there! Just use common sense and simple outdoor ethics to keep your riding areas beautiful, healthy, and open.

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UTAH SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION’S 2ND ANNUAL POKER RIDE FUNDRAISER AND DINNER

There will be a grand prize drawing for a nights lodging and day rental of a pontoon boat at Strawberry Bay Marina. Everyone that turns in a poker card will be eligible for the grand prize.

Therefore, the more poker cars you buy, the better your chances of winning the grand prize.

The Utah Snowmobile Association will be hosting its 2nd annual poker ride and dinner fundraiser. The event will be Saturday, January 28th 2017. The ride will begin at 9:00 am and start from the Strawberry Bay Mariana parking lot. Registration will be located inside the Strawberry Bay Lodge. After the ride, a dinner will be served at the Strawberry Bay Mariana.

The cost for the dinner will be $40.00 for USA members and $50.00 for non-members. The dinner will be an All-You-Can-Eat Prime Rib and Turkey with numerous side dishes to choose from. However, the dinner is limited to the first 75 people to sign-up due to space requirements. Dinner participants will receive one poker run card with their meal.

If you attended the ride last year you know how much fun it was. Well it’s going to be even better this year. Here are what some people had to say about last year’s event: OMG!!!.. What a success the Poker Ride weekend was for my family I brought and it was AWESOME FUN. The trails where well marked and groomed. All of the awesome people we talked to and interacted with... Even as the “Biggest Loser” it will go down as one of the BEST Saturday’s of my life! Thank you so much???

I thought it was fabulous and you folks did a marvelous job. Everyone seemed happy and it was fun bumping into other riders at the stops and being able to visit. Everything was so positive and seemed so well planned and prepared for. Kudos to USA for putting it together

You do not need to sign up for the dinner to participate in the Poker Run ride. Poker hands can be purchased the morning of during registration for $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00.

I thought the USA poker run event was very well done. I think everyone had a good time. It was fun to meet people from other clubs and areas.

Kudos to those who worked so hard to make it happen. KSL was there with their movie camera.

Does anyone know when their report aired or will air?

There will also be numerous great raffle prizes to enter to win. Tickets are $1 each or an arm length of tickets for $20.

The ride will be a “Ride on your Own” style ride to pre-determined locations along the way. Each stop will have a roaring campfire going so you can get warm and some stops will even have complimentary hot chocolate and snacks available.

Remember this is a fundraiser event for the Utah Snowmobile Association, Utah’s advocate for organized snowmobiling and keeping the trails open! So if you’re not a member of the Utah Snowmobile Association, now is a good time to become on. Becoming a member is easy to do, just join a local club and you automatically become a USA member. Or if you wish not to join a club and would still like to become a member, contact Russ Mangone at rumangone@gmail.com. You can also follow us on Facebook at USA-Utah Snowmobile Association. So join a club today and get involved and make some new riding buddies and memories!

At the conclusion of the ride, participants will need to turn their completed Poker Run cards in to registration by 3:00 pm in order for the staff to determine the prize winners. Announcement of the prize winners will be between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m.

Prize breakdown is as follows: 1st Prize - $300.00 2nd Prize - $200.00 3rd Prize - $100.00 Worst Hand - $50.00

Pray for snow and we’ll see you on the trails.

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WHY ADVERTISE IN THE SNOW SCOOP? According to the latest economic data, total annual expenditures resulting from snowmobiling in Utah exceed $60 million.

Our readers: •• Are 87% male, with a median age of 45.

•• Have an average annual household income exceeding $100,000!

•• Spend over $6,000 per person annually on snowmobiling!

•• Average 14 trips per season!

•• Our latest survey shows: •• 100% of respondents read every issue of the Snow Scoop!

•• Snow Scoop in-home time averages 75 days!

•• Over 80% of our readers own other OHV’s/ recreation equipment!

Our online presence: •• 96% of our readers have high speed internet and shop online!

•• 25% of our site visits are from our membership!

•• 75% of our site visits are by those who may not have seen your ad!

•• Plan now to capture your share of snowmobile dollars!

Advertise in the Utah Snow Scoop! Call Stacey at 801.510.7796 to reserve your space today!

BECAUSE IT’S PROFITABLE! utahsnowscoop@yahoo.com

801.510.7796

JOIN THE UTAH SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION! Utah Snowmobile Association Represents ALL Snowmobilers in Utah by: •• Maintaining & expanding trailheads •• Working to protect land access •• Improving trail marking & grooming •• Lobbying for positive legislation •• Distributing critical information •• Sponsoring the Annual Snow Show •• Assisting in education/safety •• Working with land administrators •• Assisting in search & rescue •• Maintaining website www.snowut.com Membership Includes: •• Six Issues of the “Snow Scoop” E-Newsletter •• Membership Card program enrollment •• “Members Only” access to the website •• Updates on critical Issues •• Club Information/Contacts •• 50% off Intermountain Snowmobile Show admission •• USA Decal

CALENDAR November 16 - USA Board Meeting December 05 - DCSC Christmas Party December 17 - GSSA Christmas Party

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