Utah Snow Scoop - March 2015

MARCH 2015 VOLUME 23, ISSUE 5

IN THIS ISSUE:

Utah Public Lands Initiative - Page 5 Weller Recreation - Page 13 USA Mission - Page 16

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

By Jeff Eddings

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ell it is hard to believe that this is the last issue of the Snow Scoop for the year. It seems very weird to me that this is the last issue and winter hasn’t even gotten started this year, and who know if it ever will. A very strange winter for sure, very upsetting to us snowmobilers. However, I did get the sleds out the other day to wash the mud from out underneath the track from a recent ride and it started snowing pretty heavy. With that reasoning, if we all get out and wash our sleds maybe it will snow hard enough for it to amount to anything. Well…..wishful thinking anyway.

On February 24th, we held the “Take a Friend Snowmobiling” event at Monte Cristo. The weather cooperated and we had a very good turnout for the event. We had over 80 adults and countless kids that come at to try snowmobiling for the first time. At Your Leisure was on-site documenting the entire event and provided hot chocolate and chili from a chili cook off. Dealers were on site for individuals to test ride all the new model snowmobiles. Buttar’s Tractor from Tremonton made the trip up as well and provided a Sno-Pro 120 for the little kids to ride around. This was a huge success with the kids and a nice touch by Buttar’s! A special thanks to the following for making the event another huge success: Utah State Parks, Golden Spike Snowmobile Association members and Russ Mangone (Russ came up to the event to volunteer immediately after work, Russ works the night shift. That’s dedication!).

Check out the video of the event here: http://ayltv.com/images/ episodes/____13/episodes13-22.php Unfortunately, we had to cancel our USA members ride scheduled for January 31st at Soapstone due to poor snow conditions and a lack of interest from USA members. Seems like the last couple years of this event we just can’t win; last year we had to much snow and this year not enough. We will give it another try next year and hopefully we can have a happy medium.

Please ensure to read the articles in this issue involving Land Access Issues. Curt Kennedy is USA’s Director of Public lands and puts countless hours into staying on top of Land Access Issues as they

relate to snowmobiling. Curt always does a great job of putting the issues down on paper and bringing you the details.

Please remember that we are always looking for stories and pictures to include in our Snow Scoop. Therefore, if there is a good story of a ride or some great snapshots that you would like to see published, please send them in to utahsnowscoop@yahoo.com.

Lastly, I would like to thank Drew Bingham for putting the Snow Scoop together every month. Drew always does a great job and puts out a professional product every month. I also want to thank my wife, Stacey for coordinating all the content of the Snow Scoop and ensuring it gets to Drew for production. Stacey also handles all the advertising in the Snow Scoop. She secures the advertising and coordinates all the financials that go along with it. She has done a stellar job this year and has gone above and beyond what you would expect from a volunteer. If you ever get a chance, ensure to say “Thank you” to these two individual. Well, I guess that wraps it up for another year. Throughout the remainder of this year and over the summer months I will ensure to send out e-mails or a “USA E-News” with any important announcements or upcoming events.

Thanks to all of you “USA Members” for supporting a being a part of organized snowmobiling. After all, it is the voices of many that are heard, versus the voice of just one or two! Until next year, keep the rubber side down and the shiny side up.

FIND THE SNOWFLAKE INSIDE THIS ISSUE AND YOU COULD WIN! Unfortunately, no one was able to identify the location of the snowflake in the last issue.

The snowflake was located in the bottom right hand picture that was included with the SLVC News article.

Find the snowflake in this issue and e-mail the location to utahsnowscoop@yahoo.com and you’ll be entered into a drawing to win a $100 gift certificate from Jorgensen’s in Richfield, UT Winner will be notified by e-mail and drawing to be held on March 28th.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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

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

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

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

Curt Kennedy, Director - Public Lands 302 South Maryfield Drive Salt Lake City, UT 84108 801-582-3882 ccklpk@gmail.com

Stacey Eddings, Snow Scoop Coordinator and Awards/Charity

Golden Spike Snowmobile Association Jeffery Eddings, President 2645 East 7800 South South Weber, UT 84405 801-510-7791 president@snowut.com

Chalk Creek Riders

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

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

Chris Haller, State Parks Representative

Salt Lake Valley Snowmobile Club

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

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

Davis County Snowflakes

Jay Ombach, Executive Director

Shane Egan 686 N 275 E Kaysville, UT 84037 801-589-6401 eganauto.1@gmail.com

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

USA BUSINESS MEMBERS Vernal Sports Center 2029 W Highway 40 Vernal, UT 84078

Tri-City Performance 461 South Frontage Road Centerville, UT 84014

Utah State Parks 1594 W North Temple STE 116 Salt Lake City, UT 84116

Cutlers, Inc. 271 N State Street Orem, UT 84057

www.beersharley.com

CLUB DIRECTORY

www.tricityperformance.com

www.shopcutlers.com

www.stateparks.utah.gov

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TABLE OF CONTENTS AVALANCHE CENTER NEWS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 UTAH PUBLIC LANDS INITIATIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 ASCA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 GSSA NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 “WHAT HAS THE UTAH SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION DONE FOR ME?” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 FINAL SNOWMOBILE ACCESS RULE IS RELEASED BY U.S. FOREST SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 WELLER RECREATION – A STRONG PARTNER!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 USA SCHOLARSHIP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 LET’S CELEBRATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 USA MISSION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 GO SNOWMOBILING/TAKE A FRIEND SNOWMOBILING CAMPAIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 TAKE A FRIEND SNOWMOBILING EVENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 WASATCH MOUNTAIN STATE PARK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 YOUR BACK OF THE WASATCH 4 SEASON PLAY GROUND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 U.S. FOREST SERVICE RELEASES FINAL SNOWMOBILE RULE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

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 30 October 14 November October 28 November 11 December November 25 December 9 Winter January 13 January 27 March February 24 March 10 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/

AVALANCHE CENTER NEWS

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ow…. hard to believe it’s late February. Across much of the state it hardly seems like winter ever came to visit. While the trailheads took a hard hit from all the unusually warm weather, the snowpack was happy in its own skin and we never developed the weak, sugary layers we often have to deal with throughout the season. As a matter of fact, upper elevation, shady terrain has harbored surprisingly good snow. The good news… it looks like we’re gonna get some spring storms as we transition into March and the long days a promise of spring pow should help improve spirits. Yep, I’m stoked!

It hasn’t been an epic snow or avalanche year by any means, but we’ve been busy at the Avalanche Center teaching classes, revamping trailhead signs, and ramping up our outreach programs statewide.

In additon, we’ve devloped some great new partnerships throughout the community. Sam T Evans Trucktops and Trailers in partnership with Look Trailers was an enormous help to our program and came to the plate generously donating a loaner trailer for the 2014-15 season. This is a huge upgrade for us particularly in the trailer department and we look forward to continuing this relationship next season.

UTAH PUBLIC LANDS INITIATIVE Congressman Rob Bishop is heading up an effort with Congressmen Jason Chaffetz and Chris Stewart to pass a law that would attempt to bring resolution to some of the most challenging public lands disputes in the state of Utah. The initiative (which has been in the works for several years) is rooted in the belief that conservation and economic development can coexist and make Utah a better place to live, work and visit. The process for developing a law hinges on collaboration, compromise and creativity. Structurally, the discussion process has largely centered on the county level, but all interested parties continue to be encouraged to participate.

From an outsider looking in, it is readily apparent that significant concessions would be necessary to make an overall master plan work for bringing to a conclusion the allowable use for public lands that have been debated for decades. As a snowmobiler, the primary concern likely focuses on what happens within Uintah County and any extension of the High Uinta Wilderness.

To date, most of the material available for review largely deals with the process itself and very little insight is provided on what a draft bill would look like in the form specific land use designations. Conceptually, we know there is a designation called an “SMA” (Special Management Area) that could have differing definitions depending on the specific characteristics expected to be achieved

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for a specific area. In discussion with Congressman Bishop’s staff we understand a draft Public Lands Initiative bill should be forthcoming by the end of March, followed by a short comment period.

We encourage all snowmobilers to get on the website for their specific county and determine if there are any riding areas that could be impacted by this broad initiative. You should then provide comments to both the county and to Congressman Bishop’s office. It would also be helpful to share your perspective with our public lands volunteer, Curt Kennedy, at ccklpk@gmail.com so that USA can add further support.

ASCA

The ACSA Board of Directors is made up of Delegates from each of our member Associations. ACSA works closely with each state A Message from the President.

Association and the International Snowmobile Manufacturers he Holidays are behind us, credit card bills are arriving, Association to stay on top of issues that arise and policies that could we all begin to focus on taxes and how to get out of pay- have a negative impact on our sport. In addition, ACSA has a close ing more than we feel we should, snowmobile trails are working relationship with the Canadian Council of Snowmobile signed and in some areas groomed and are being ridden, and for Organizations, our sister entity in Canada. those of us who snowmobile, we are in the middle of our favorite As many of you know, each June, snowmobilers get together at season. I hope you are all enjoying it, and have been blessed with the International Snowmobile Congress (ISC) to network and adequate snow. together work on snowmobile related issues. Many other snowmoI happen to live in an area that hasn’t been so lucky yet, but I’m bile related organizations are also represented at Congress, making certainly not giving up hope. Depending on where you live, many it one of the most critical annual snowmobile events. In June of are used to having to trailer to find good snow conditions on an 2015, we will gather in Niagara, NY for the 2015 ISC. Chances are, annual basis. Others have the luxury of getting early snow, plenty your state delegate will attend and participate in this. of new snow, and have riding conditions all winter long many of I feel the most critical function of ACSA is organizing the Annual us can only dream about. I envy those people!

DC Fly-In. Each spring, delegates travel to Washington, DC to get Snowmobiling is truly an addiction in my opinion. It is a sport the latest updates from those in the know regarding snowmobilthat consumes us year round. For the thousands of volunteers that ing. Each Chapter of ACSA holds meetings, we meet as the full assist at all different levels, it is a year round commitment. Many ACSA Board, and one full day of the trip, each delegate visits their belong to and serve at the local club level. Others get involved at Congressional Delegates as a result of pre-arranged time slots by the State, National, and even International level. To all those vol- our ACSA staff. This puts us face to face with the decision makunteers everywhere, I’d like to say THANK YOU. Without all of ers or their staff to explain how critical our sport is to their state’s you, snowmobiling as we know it today wouldn’t exist. It’s all of economy, and provide them with valuable up to date snowmobile you that make the trails happen, the rules and legislation necessary information. for our protection and safety possible, and the constant awareness Another critical function of ACSA is to provide financial support of threats to our sport become front and center to those who don’t to defend ongoing and continuous legal challenges by various get involved. anti-snowmobile groups. The ACSA Legal Defense Fund (LDF) was created many years ago to help with this financial support. The I have the pleasure to serve all of you as the President of the American Council of Snowmobile Association (ACSA). Chances LDF was revitalized a couple years ago as a result of a lawsuit filed are, if you’re reading this, you are involved at some level in snow- against the United States Forest Service in Idaho. Since that time, mobiling. You most likely belong to your local club, and in most snowmobilers everywhere have realized how critical this financial cases as a result, also belong to your State Association. You then support is and have contributed to our ongoing legal financial needs.

I want to extend a sincere thank you to all the individuals, clubs, in turn, again in most cases, become affiliated with ACSA. businesses, and organizations who have contributed. As a result of We are the umbrella organization that monitors and watches out your support, I strongly believe we continue to make a difference for your snowmobiling interests at a variety of levels. We serve as in the outcome of the legal challenges we face. watchdogs regarding continuous and ongoing threats to our sport and where we ride. ACSA has over the years built and nurtured Enjoy the rest of our favorite time of year, be safe on the trails, and relationships with decision makers at the National Level in vari- continue to be Ambassadors for our sport. It’s because of you that ous areas of Government. These relationships have proven to be our sport is strong and growing. Let’s all help ensure that our chilinvaluable when “knowing the right people” has been a critical dren, grandchildren, and beyond, are able to enjoy the beauty of part of favorable outcomes regarding potential closures to some winter missed by those who don’t snowmobile. For further information visit www.snowmobilers.org of our favorite areas to ride.

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Duane Sutton, President,

ACSA currently has one full time Executive Director and one part time office person. The governance of ACSA is the responsibility of volunteers who serve, for no other reason except, for the fact that they love the sport of snowmobiling.

American Council of Snowmobile Associations

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GSSA NEWS

that is a considered a “SnoWest Undisclosed Location” in one of their recent magazine articles.

When we got to the spot, we were able to make out some very large wolf tracks that we have been hearing about all weekend long. Although very cool, they were eerie at the same time.

Something about seeing a 300 pound wolf approaching you sets wrong with me! Overall, we had a great weekend and this will be on the list of places to visit again! Check out these websites if you get a chance: http:// www.hayhurstbnb.com/ and http://www.idahosnowriders.com/

by Jeff Eddings

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ive Golden Spike Snowmobile Association members pitched in and rented Sutton’s Red Roof Cabin in Liberty, Idaho over Martin Luther King weekend. The snow and weather was remarkably good and we were able to ride right from the cabin to the trailhead. We explored the Copenhagen area on Saturday and the area north of Highway 36 on Sunday. We were able to enjoy a nice breakfast before the ride and it was nice to come back to a warm, comfortable cabin after a hard day of riding. This area is one of my favorite areas to ride and if you get the opportunity you should plan on a stay at Sutton’s cabin. Check there website out at: http://www.suttonscabin.com/

Our next ride was our annual ride. Eleven us made the trek up to Pine, Idaho over President’s Day weekend in the search of snow.

Unfortunately, the snow in Pine wasn’t as good as we would have hoped. Once we made our way up to the top of the Trinity Mountains there was some nice snow to be had, just getting up to it could have been a lot better. However, the accommodations and hospitality of the people of Pine made up for the lack of snow.

We stayed at the Hayhurst Bed and Breakfast where Gary and Denise treated us just like family. All I can say about thus place is Wow! On Saturday, we participated in the Idaho Snow Riders club’s annual Poker Run that was a lot of fun to say the least. We left from Featherville and made a trip over to Atlanta traversing some very beautiful scenery along the way. When we reached Atlanta, a Prime Rib dinner was awaiting us. One of our members said he could smell it 5 miles down the trail! If the riding and good company wasn’t good enough, one of our members one $200 in the Poker Run and another one a Keurig Coffee maker in the raffle. On Sunday, one of the Idaho Snow Riders guided us up a trail to an area

Our next club meeting will be on March 20th at 6:00 pm at the Denny’s, 1250 Washington Ave. Ogden.

As always, the Golden Spike Snowmobile Association is looking for new members to join the club. Joining an organized club is an excellent way to support the sport you love and a great way to meet new and exciting people. There are many organizations that would love to see snowmobiling banished from the mountains and the areas we ride. These organizations are well funded and have countless members. Let’s not give these organizations the upper hand; join a snowmobile club today!

If you would like more information on the Golden Spike Snowmobile Association and/or how to become a member, please call me at 801-510-7791 or visit: www.ridegssa.org

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“WHAT HAS THE UTAH SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION DONE FOR ME?”

•• USA keeps snowmobiling in a positive light by obtaining grant money for television features on the “At Your Leisure” program. Only state associations can apply for an annual ISMA (International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association) Grant for critical projects pertinent to snowmobiling.

•• USA is front-and-center on interface with other organizations, such as: BlueRibbon Coalition, USA-ALL, Utah Division of Parks & Recreation, Utah Avalanche Center and numerous county, state he Utah Snowmobile Association (“USA”) is an all-vol- and Federal agencies and offices, regarding snowmobile issues. unteer organization for snowmobilers and others who are concerned about the future of our sport. Snowmobiling •• We send volunteer representatives to the annual International Snowmobile Congress, which is the largest gathering of snowmohas been a part of Utah’s winter backcountry culture ever since the bile interests of its kind. Participants from 22 U.S. state snowmobile “snow machine” was first introduced. It has lured many generations associations, 12 Canadian provincial and territorial associations, to the magical beauty of Utah’s extensive public lands, but our form Sweden and Russia meet to discuss problems and solutions to issues of recreation is under constant attack by the ill-informed and bias affecting snowmobiling. In fact, USA hosted this event in Salt Lake of those unwilling to share the public domain. USA is all about City for the June 2005 ISC. connections and activism. Here is a list of our accomplishments •• USA works closely with the Colorado, Idaho and Wyoming associand ongoing activities: ations on common snowmobile issues, since these states have similar problems and opportunities for effective solutions.

•• USA partners with the American Council of Snowmobile Associations (“ACSA”) to combine the strength of 22 state associa•• USA was instrumental in support of the Utah Avalanche Center’s tions in defending public land access, monitoring applicable Federal effort to develop an avalanche awareness video specific for snowmoregulations, supporting local challenges, promoting snowmobile bilers. Titled “Knowledge is Powder,” the 9-minute production is safety and generally championing snowmobiling as a family sport. available for viewing online at http://vimeo.com/113677686. We believe it will entice riders to get more educated on avalanches in an •• We are actively involved in national and local issues affecting effort to save lives. We had previously helped to fund the developsnowmobiling. Examples include: (1) hundreds of pages of written ment of the “Know Before You Go” program that was and continues comments on Forest Plan Revisions (specifically, Wasatch-Cache, to be a tremendous success in avalanche education.

Uinta and Caribou National Forests), assisting in sustaining thousands of acres of snowmobiling that adversaries wanted closed; (2) •• By partnering with SnoWest Magazine, USA hosts the annual assisted in preserving substantial portions of the Tony Grove and Snow Show in Salt Lake City, which brings together literally everyFranklin Basin areas for snowmobiling that non-motorized users thing imaginable in providing products and services to snowmobilers. wanted closed; (3) worked extensively on Travel Planning on the Attendance normally peaks over 5,000 people and over 100 booths.

Manti-LaSal National Forest that could have ended in substantial •• USA builds critical financial reserves for legal funds that may be closures in the Fairview/Gooseberry area; (4) provided written necessary from time to time in defending access or legislation importcomments on national regulations and issues such as the Roadless Area Rule; Wilderness designations; Yellowstone access; Endangered ant to snowmobilers.

Species Act reform; RS2477 Rights-of-Ways; EPA regulations; •• USA maintains the www.snowut.com website that helps commuGroup permit regulations; Winter nicate everything from grooming, to club activities, to avalanche •• Travel Planning Rule; Forest Service budgeting problems; funding forecasts, to riding areas and to current issues. Incorporated into this website is the electronic publication of the “Snow Scoop” that brings for the Recreational Trails Program (RTP); and HIPAA insurance regulations – to name a few; (5) participated extensively in the win- items of interest to riders during the current winter season. ter trailhead plowing issues for the Strawberry area; (6) actively commented to and met with UDOT regarding potential winter plowing of key snowmobile routes (Wolf Creek Pass, Mirror Lake Highway, Monte Cristo, etc.).

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•• USA will actively participate in Winter Travel Planning that will be undertaken once the new rule is implemented by the Forest Service. It will entail a time-consuming process of making sure we retain our snowmobiling opportunities on Forest Service public lands everywhere that has snow. Adversaries will be working hard to eliminate snowmobiling, or at a minimum reduce it to a designated-route experience.

•• USA remains connected politically through participation in ACSA’s annual “Washington D.C. Fly-In.” State snowmobile associations storm the hill in a lobbying effort to make sure our elected officials are aware of snowmobiler issues.

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FINAL SNOWMOBILE ACCESS RULE IS RELEASED BY U.S. FOREST SERVICE

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n January 28, 2015, the U.S. Forest Service (FS) released its final rule establishing a process that will determine where snowmobilers are allowed to ride on national forest public lands. The new regulation is a direct result of a decision by an Idaho federal judge in March 2013 ruling the 2005 Travel Management Rule violated certain Executive Orders by not mandating that land managers determine where and when overthe-snow-vehicle (i.e. snowmobile) use can occur on national forest lands. Essentially, the Judge ruled in favor of Winter Wildlands Alliance (WWA) in their 2011 lawsuit against the FS, wherein WWA believed that snowmobiles should not be exempt from the 2005 Travel Management Rule, which dictated a designated route process for summer, motorized, rubber-tired recreation.

Once the snowmobile designation process is complete (inclusive of map development) it will be unlawful to possess or operate a snowmobile outside of those designations. Certain administrative exemptions do apply.

The Rule indicates the FS will develop standards for a snowmobile use map and make changes to its handbook on guidance for consistency in content and use of standard symbols for signs.

You can view the entire Rule at: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/ FR-2015-01-28/pdf/2015-01573.pdf The Utah Snowmobile Association (USA) plans to actively participate in the implementation of the new Winter Travel Planning Rule where it is determined by the FS units that such Rule has not already previously been met. However, it will take the grass-roots participation of all riders to get involved in the areas they know best and that are important to their snowmobile experience.

At this point, USA is not certain which National Forests (or specific Ranger Districts) within Utah will be required to undergo the lengthy planning process. Our radar screen will be watching over Fortunately, particularly for the western rider, the FS does recognize Ashley, Dixie, Fishlake, Manti-LaSal, Uinta-Wasatch-Cache and the inherent differences between summer and winter motorized Caribou-Targhee National Forests to see where the cards fall. We recreation and is not eliminating the opportunity for cross coun- will do our very best to keep Utah riders informed of the process, try snowmobile travel. However, it will take a major participation but we need your help to make sure we do not miss an opportueffort on the part of the snowmobile community to work through nity. Our public lands volunteer, Curt Kennedy, would welcome the new regulatory process to sustain our riding privileges on FS any input and can be reached at ccklpk@gmail.com. public lands. Here is a thumbnail sketch of the key requirements of the new Winter Travel Planning Rule:

The Rule is effective February 27, 2015.

FS units or Districts that have completed snowmobile use designations under other authorities and including public involvement do not have to revisit those decisions, but they do have to develop a snowmobile use map.

Other FS units or Districts do not have a predetermined deadline to fulfill implementation of the final Rule, but must act expeditiously.

The Rule recognizes it may be appropriate to designate areas for cross-country snowmobile use, so the new rule exempts snowmobiles from the statement that in most cases an area will be much smaller than a Ranger District.

The key framework of the Rule mandates that Responsible Officials must determine (where snowfall is adequate) by class of vehicle and time of year, where snowmobile use is allowed. This step must involve widespread public participation. Then, a map must be developed showing the trails, routes and areas where such use can occur (and, if applicable the class of vehicle and time of year).

Until the snowmobile designation process is complete, existing snowmobile travel management policies, restrictions and orders remain in effect.

11 Utah State Parks

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WELLER RECREATION – A STRONG PARTNER! Retaining the opportunity to enjoy snowmobiling is really all about strong partnerships. In Utah we are very fortunate to have good support from a very important pool ranging from dealers, to after-market suppliers, to lodging providers, to local government and everywhere in between. Without question, Weller Recreation is one of those critical partners that help USA help the snowmobile community.

On November 28th and 29th, Weller Recreation had their grand opening for a new state-of-the-art facility that has been many years in the making. It was a very successful and a great kick-off to the winter season. Located at 936 West 200 South SR 248, just on the edge of Kamas, the Weller team can provide everything imaginable for the snowmobiler and ATV enthusiast.

It is important to note that over the years, Weller Recreation has provided auction items, loaner sleds and other in-kind support that helps USA and other organizations sustain quality and safe snowmobiling throughout Utah. This winter season alone, Weller Recreation (in partnership with Bombardier Recreational Products) has donated loaner sleds to various organizations that include Wasatch County Search & Rescue, Summit County Search & Rescue, Duchesne County Search & Rescue, the Utah Avalanche Center and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. These were not run-of-the-mill snowmobiles and included Ski-Doo Summit 800 SP’s and one Expedition 1200 LE. USA contacted Weller Recreation for their help in providing two loaner sleds for the upcoming USA Members Ride scheduled for January 31. We needed sleds for a special guest, Congressman Jason Chaffetz, who accepted our invitation to participate on the ride.

Weller Recreation was more than willing to step up to the plate.

All of these examples of support go a long way toward keeping snowmobiling alive. In turn, we as snowmobilers need to support Weller Recreation and all other businesses and organizations that go out of their way to help the snowmobile community. Tell them that you and USA truly appreciates their effort!

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USA SCHOLARSHIP

Application and requirements are to be mailed or e-mailed to:

by Stacey Eddings, Awards & Charities, USA

Utah Snowmobile Association C/o Stacey Eddings The Utah Snowmobile Association (USA) will be offering a schol2645 East 7800 South arship to either a graduating high school senior or an individual South Weber, UT 84405 currently enrolled in college. This will be a $1,000 grant and will Utahsnowscoop@yahoo.com be given to the winner regardless of other grants or scholarships that the student may also receive. Requirements are as follows: The winner of the USA scholarship will be announced at USA’s Annual Convention in April 2015.

1. Applicant must be a member of the Utah Snowmobile Association.

Additionally, the winner of the USA Scholarship will have their application submitted to the American Council of Snowmobile 2. Applicant must submit the completed application form.

Associations Western Chapter Scholarship contest. The winner of 3. Applicant must submit a résumé detailing his or her involvement this scholarship will be announced at the International Snowmobile in snowmobiling as well as extra-curricular activities.

Congress in June 2015 in Niagara Falls, New York and will receive 4. Applicant must include an essay on: “You have been asked by an additional cash prize. Funding for the USA Scholarship comes your state snowmobile association to meet with your state repfrom fundraising projects at the Intermountain Snowmobile Show. resentative at the state capital to talk about snowmobiling. You Funding for the Western Chapter Scholarship comes from financial have a fifteen minute appointment to emphasize snowmobiling support of member organizations and donations received throughand its related issues. What three points or issues would you out the year. The scholarship application can also be found on emphasize with them and why did you pick these three points?” www.snowut.com.

5. The application must be received by USA by April 1st, 2015.

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“GSSA RIDERS AT AN UNDISCLOSED GSSA RIDING AREA” A great partnership for the snowmobiling community

Working hard to support the snowmobiling community • Keeping trails open and developing new trails • Supporting trail grooming • Initiating and supporting lawsuits that threaten access • Encouraging snowmobiler participation in clubs and associations • Promoting snowmobiling as a family activity • Providing safety awareness and education through the Safe Riders! program

LET’S CELEBRATE

USA MISSION

Celebrate your members, youth, and dealers!! The Utah “To promote, protect and defend safe and responsible snowmobile Snowmobile Association recognizes six different individual/groups use now and for future generations. We are the Utah Snowmobile each year for their efforts during the year. These efforts are not nec- Association.” essarily tied to just snowmobiling. The categories are:

Our Core Values and Beliefs

Snowmobiler of the Year Snowmobile Family of the Year Youth Snowmobiler of the Year Snowmobile Club of the Year

A template for what snowmobiling is really all about in Utah.

ACCESS + SAFETY + EDUCATION + ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP + SHARING

Snowmobile Dealer of the Year Groomer of the Year Anyone can make a nomination, however the nominees for snowmobiler, youth snowmobiler, family of the year and club of the year must be members of the Utah Snowmobile Association. Visit http://snowut.com/awards/ for more information. Mail the completed form to the address listed below by April 1, 2015.

Utah Snowmobile Association c/o Stacey Eddings 2645 East 7800 South South Weber, UT 84405

ACCOUNTABILITY

RESULTS IN FUN, MENTAL, PHYSICAL AND SOCIAL BENEFITS “Our core values and beliefs are very simple: We support multiple uses of public lands, sharing of this privilege, environmental stewardship, education, safety in the backcountry and overall accountability that contributes toward our goal for fun, mental, physical and social benefits.”

Press Release:

Craig highlights to me, “Don’t show off or push the envelope or challenge your friend beyond their capabilities or comfort zone.

Remember, you’re the one that snowmobiles and understands his/ her machine. Let your friend enjoy the day. Go slow, make it short, make it simple, and by the way….it always helps to feed them well.”

GO SNOWMOBILING/ TAKE A FRIEND SNOWMOBILING CAMPAIGN EXPANDS ON FACEBOOK AND ON THE WEB

The Go Snowmobiling/Take a Friend Snowmobiling campaign continues to expand with new additions to the Go Snowmobiling Web site. The Safe Riders! 22 minute safety video is now available on YouTube and can be accessed through the Go Snowmobiling Web site at http://www.gosnowmobiling.org/snowmobiling-resources.html#InstructionalVideo , or the ISMA Web site at http:// www.snowmobile.org/snowmobilesafety.asp . This is a great tool ASLETT, MI, February 19, 2015: The Take a Friend Snowmobiling Week proved to be a great success. Clubs, when introducing a friend to snowmobiling to help make your groups and Associations across North America held fun ride more enjoyable. rides, military rides, Political rides and just had fun snowmobiling If you “LIKE” our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ with friends. Following the designated week, many individuals are GoSnowmobiling , you may notice that more snowmobilers are planning additional rides with new and old friends alike. There is posting their pictures and their experiences to our page. We have still a good bit of winter ahead of us and the trails and riding areas over 7500 friends who visit our page regularly and it is common in many areas are in phenomenal shape. Remember too that this for our fun and informative posts to be forwarded to thousands time of year, the daylight is getting little longer and provides slightly of snowmobile enthusiasts. A new addition to the Facebook page warmer temperatures for our riding comfort. (www.facebook.com/GoSnowmobiling/app_190322544333196) The Take a Friend ride that I participated in highlighted again for and Go Snowmobiling web site (www.gosnowmobiling.org/snowme the WOW factor and the pure enjoyment that people have on mobiler-survey.html) is a short general survey through Survey a snowmobile. I rode with a number of first time snowmobilers Monkey. We ask that everyone visiting our Facebook page take this and they couldn’t quit talking about how much fun it was and how short 10 question survey, (and if you haven’t done so yet, “LIKE” they couldn’t wait to do it again! Thankfully I was well prepared our page! www.facebook.com/GoSnowmobiling) This survey for the ride and made sure that my guests were well dressed and helps us to better understand the needs of snowmobilers, enabling comfortable. I have been fortunate to have snowmobiled with the us to develop programs that will benefit all of us and help us expand Intrepid Snowmobiler – Craig Nicholson. Craig recently wrote an the trail systems and riding areas. article on “how to shape your friends’ experience to help determine Remember that the Take a Friend Snowmobiling contest runs if snowmobiling wins over another convert.” Craig’s article hit the until March 31, 2015. Applications to win the contest are available nail on the head when he stated that the first thing to remember on the web site. Contest applications are due by April 30, 2015. is: “Your friend is not experienced. Keep the ride slow, short and simple. Chances are that your normal ride would seem like a mar- We look forward to many more late winter rides this year as it athon to an uninitiated friend.” A few well put words from Craig appears the ground hog was correct and winter will be with us go a long way when introducing your friends to snowmobiling. As for a while longer.

H

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TAKE A FRIEND SNOWMOBILING EVENT

18

WASATCH MOUNTAIN STATE PARK YOUR BACK OF THE WASATCH 4 SEASON PLAY GROUND

by Drew Patterson (Park Ranger)

W

asatch Mountain State Park is a short 30-40 minutes from the Wasatch Front, making it a great year round weekday or weekend destination attraction for many. Wasatch Mtn has about any type of outdoor recreation opportunity to appeal to most everyone, other than boating, but that’s ok, even that is within a 10 minute drive of the park at Deer Creek or Jordanelle State Parks.

In the winter months, Wasatch Mtn grooms approximately 70 miles of snowmobile trails throughout the park and on the UintahWasatch-Cache National Forest. Three trailheads are found on the park, with an additional 4 trailheads providing access to these trails along the Wasatch Front.

Wasatch also has x-country skiing and snow shoeing opportunities on groomed trails located at Wasatch Mtn golf course and Soldier Hollow, home of the 2002 Winter Olympics X-country venue. There are also plenty of other trails, not groomed throughout the park to enjoy as well.

In the warmer months, the opportunities are endless. With over 90 miles of Off-highway Vehicle (OHV) trails between the park and surrounding Forest Service, and an additional 40 single track motorcycle trails, this is a very popular place to ride some of the most beautiful roads and trails just minutes from the bulk of Utah’s population. Access to these trails are from the Cascade Springs trailhead at Soldier Hollow, or the Mill Flat Trailhead in Snake Creek Canyon. Ride maps are available on the State Park website or at the Wasatch Mtn Visitor Center.

Wasatch Mtn has two campgrounds, providing over 140 campsites. Pine Creek Campground, our biggest site, is located near the park headquarters. Little Deer Creek campground is located 8 miles from Soldier Hollow and is a small campground with limited amenities and is more secluded. Both are beautiful places to stay. Little Deer Creek allows for ATV use in/out of the campground. Pine Creek up until now hasn’t allowed that, but is in the process of creating a trail for riders to come and go from.

If you need more space for larger groups, we have several group use areas to choose from. The most popular is the Chalet which comes with a country style indoor cooking dining facility and a large grass area outside. The Soldier Hollow group area and Miners Retreat areas have trailer hook ups, tent areas and pavilions available. The Harvest group site is a secluded area along Snake Creek that has trailer hookups and tent area. Reservations are made online at stateparks.utah.gov . The pine creek campground also has two cabins, which each sleep 6, available for rental. If you don’t want to haul your trailer up and down the canyon, the park now offers an RV/ Trailer storage yard.

Other Spring, Summer and Fall opportunities at Wasatch Mtn State Park include our famous golf courses; Wasatch Mtn and Soldier Hollow golf courses both offer 72 holes of golf. These courses have received numerous awards over the years and are some of the most popular courses in the State. You’ll want to book your T-times quick as they fill up fast.

Our Dutch Canyon area is a non-motorized area which has miles and miles of mtn biking trails, and more being built throughout the park as we speak. These trails are also open to hiking and equestrian use. A trailhead provides parking and a restroom. Access to our new WOW (Wasatch over Wasatch) trail which is in the process of being built now, is available from Dutch Canyon trailhead or from several trailheads which will be located in Pine Canyon. These trails will eventually connect with trails in Summit County. (check with the park for updates on this as it is being built now).

At the Visitor Center, families can spend a sunny day with a picnic and letting the kid’s fish in our community pond which is stocked with trout on a regular basis throughout the summer months. The park naturalist hosts programs throughout the park all summer long. You can call the park for information on programs and availability. In the fall, the historic Huber Grove is filled with 100 year old apple trees. We hold an annual apple picking harvest every year where people can pay for a bushel and equipment is provided to harvest these apples. This is a fun family outing.

Come to Wasatch Mtn State Park and play hard, relax, or both. There is something for everyone.

Wasatch Mtn Visitor Center: 435-654-1791. Open 7 days a week 8-5PM.

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U.S. FOREST SERVICE RELEASES FINAL SNOWMOBILE RULE

January 28, 2015

The U.S. Forest Service today published a final rule that will regulate when and where over-snow vehicles (snowmobiles) can be used on national forest lands.

The final rule, which will take effect in about a month, will “provide a wide range of motorized and non-motorized recreational opportunities”, said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. “This policy maintains community input and local decision-making so that those with knowledge of local areas can decide how to best balance natural resource issues with legitimate recreational uses of national forest land.”

The Travel Management Rule, established in 2005, adopted a system in which local forest managers designated trails, routes and areas in which off-highway vehicle use was allowed or prohibited. Because snowmobile tracks melt with the snow, whether to use this specific regulatory system to manage over-snow vehicles was at the discretion of the land manager. In March 2013 an Idaho federal judge ruled in favor of a lawsuit filed by the Winter Wildlands Alliance filed in November, 2011, requiring the Forest Service to conduct more analysis.

The American Council of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA) and the Idaho State Snowmobile Association, with substantial support from the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association (ISMA), appealed the decision against the Forest Service. This appeal is currently ongoing. Blue Ribbon Coalition is also listed as a participant in the appeal.

The proposed rule was published on June 18, 2014 and the Forest Service received and analyzed thousands of comments that were received during the comment period. Along with ACSA, ISMA and the other participants in the appeal filed detailed public comments. Based on its findings, the Forest Service issued the final rule. The final rule will now require that each Forest Service unit and/ or ranger district which has adequate snowfall to support OSV use, develop an OSV Plan that decides which routes, trails and areas should be open to snowmobiling, unless the unit already has such a Plan in place.

This Rule will provide consistency in how over-snow vehicle use is allowed by requiring the publication of maps designating trails, routes and areas where snowmobiles are allowed. Those forests that have already made decisions on OSV use, with public involvement, will not be required to go through that process again and current use may continue, unless the unit chooses to reopen its prior decision. Thus, a substantial number of Forests will not be required to go through this process again.

For those Forests that must conduct proceedings to designate trails, routes and areas as open or closed to snowmobile use, current use is protected on an interim basis while the unit conducts the proceeding. The Final Rule explains: “Until designation for a unit or District are complete and an OSV use map indentifying those designations is published, existing OSV travel management policies, restrictions, and orders remain in effect. Use of NFS roads, NFS trails, and areas on NFS lands consistent with current OSV travel management decisions and management objectives may continue.”

The Rule provides for the creation of over-snow vehicle use maps. It also modifies the definition for an “area” to encompass over-snow vehicle use over a broader landscape. The Forest Service explains that this recognizes that cross-country snowmobile use may be appropriate in areas in which cross-country use by wheeled off-highway vehicles would not be appropriate.

“Snowmobilers have participated in Forest Service planning for decades. Unfortunately it seems every time a Forest Service Plan is updated, snowmobilers lose trails and access,” said ACSA President Duane Sutton. “With this new rule, snowmobilers must maintain their diligence in attending these meetings and participating in the planning process. Our participation is more important now than ever.”

The American Council of Snowmobile Association is very appreciative of the input and financial support from individual snowmobilers, snowmobile clubs, state associations, and businesses throughout this process. ACSA looks forward to working with all of those individuals and organizations in the implementation of this Rule.

To view the entire Final Rule, see http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2015-01-28/pdf/2015-01573.pdf If you have any questions, please contact the ACSA office.

American Council of Snowmobile Associations 271 Woodland Pass, East Lansing, MI 48823 517*351*4362 www.snowmobilers.org

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

JOIN THE UTAH SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION!

Look to this section for future announcements..

UPCOMING EVENTS

Utah Snowmobile Association Represents ALL Snowmobilers in Utah by:

•• March 14 - Salt Lake Valley Club Ride •• March 20 - Golden Spike Snowmobile Association Meeting •• March 28 - Salt Lake Valley Club Ride •• April 11 - Salt Lake Valley Club Ride

•• 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:

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!

Join online at www.snowut.com

Please send application and check to: Utah Snowmobile Association, 1794 N 6250 E, Eden, UT 84310

Email

Zip City State

Address

Name Phone

$10 Student (<25)

$75 Business

$30 Family

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$20 Individual

utahsnowscoop@yahoo.com 801.510.7796

BECAUSE IT’S PROFITABLE!

Annual Dues:

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

•• Free AD&D Life Insurance •• 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