Utah Snow Scoop - March 2016

MARCH 2016 VOLUME 24, ISSUE 5

IN THIS ISSUE:

Update on Access - Page 11 Monte Cristo Ride - Page 17 USA Poker Ride - Page 21

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

By Jeff Eddings

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t’s hard to believe that this is the last issue of the Snow Scoop for the year. Seems like yesterday I was writing the first President’s message and getting ready for the Snowmobile Show. Well like they say; time keeps marching on!

It’s been a very good year for the Utah Snowmobile Association.

We started off the year with another successful Intermountain Snowmobile Show. Once again, our Silent Auction fundraiser was a huge success. The Silent Auction fundraiser wouldn’t be possible without all the great support from all the businesses in the community and surrounding areas. Year after year these businesses step up to donate and we appreciate it. We also held our outside swap meet at the snowmobile show and we plan on doing something a little different with our swap meet for next year.

USA supported the Northern Utah Snowmobile Show held at the Box Elder County fairgrounds in Tremonton. We set-up our both and promoted the Utah Snowmobile Association. This was the first year of this show, so the turn-out was small in comparison to the Intermountain Snowmobile Show. However, we were glad to be able to attend and support the snowmobiling businesses in Northern Utah.

I want to thank all the Board Members for all their hard work and committing their valuable time to the Utah Snowmobile Association. In these days of everyone on the go, I know it is not easy to find the time to volunteer. Over the last 6 months we have had numerous board meetings and last minute taskers that have needed to be attended to and many members of the board have stepped up to meet those challenges. I appreciate everything you do for the sport of snowmobiling and the Utah Snowmobile Association. I would be remised if I didn’t mention all the members of their local clubs and all the volunteer hours they put in as well. There are numerous behind the scenes these members take care of. Thank you for what you do and your volunteerism as well!

In January, we held our first-ever Poker Run fundraiser at the Strawberry Snowmobiling Complex and Strawberry Bay Marina Lodge. This event was months in the planning and in the end it turned out to be a huge success. I am not going to talk much about the event as you can read the article about the Poker Run later in this issue.

Although not quite there yet, in early March will be working with a video production company filming a short TV segment to promote snowmobiling in the Utah. Filming will take place for roughly two weeks around the Bear River Service and Strawberry area. When it is all said and done, the TV segment will be around 30 minutes long and will be totally dedicated to snowmobiling in Utah. As So in closing, make sure to make the rest of the snowmobiling soon as more details become available about the airing of the show, season a safe and enjoyable one. Although this is the last issue of the Snow Scoop for the year, we will continue to keep our memI will ensure to keep everyone informed. bers updated of snowmobiling related issues as they arise through Hopefully we will see some more snow in the forecast and be able e-mail communication, Facebook and the website. Until next year… to ride a couple more months, but as it is the season is drawing to a close. Now USA turns our attention to our Washington, D.C. Fly-in visit in April and attending the International Snowmobile Congress in June.

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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

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

Cal Taylor, Vice President

Stacey Eddings, Snow Scoop Coordinator and Awards/Charity

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

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

Russ Mangone, Secretary

Chris Haller, State Parks Representative

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

Lisa Kowalewski, Treasurer

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

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

CLUB DIRECTORY

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

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

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

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

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

FIND THE SNOWFLAKE INSIDE THIS ISSUE AND YOU COULD WIN! Unfortunately nobody found the snowflake in last month’s issue. The snowflake was embedded into the temperature display panel picture on page 11.

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 $50 Maverik Gift Card. Winner will be notified by e-mail and drawing to be held on March 31st.

USA BUSINESS MEMBERS

Vernal Sports Center 2029 W Highway 40 Vernal, UT 84078

Frank May Ski-Doo 6740 North Hwy. 38 (Honeyville) Brigham City, UT 84302 www.frankmayskidoo.com

www.beersharley.com

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

www.shopcutlers.com

Utah State Parks 1594 W North Temple STE 116 Salt Lake City, UT 84116 www.stateparks.utah.gov

Loose Wheels Service, Inc. 55 Movie Ranch Rd. Duck Creek Village, UT 84762 www.loosewheels.com

Tri-City Performance 461 South Frontage Road Centerville, UT 84014 www.tricityperformance.com

Brandin’ Iron Inn 201 N Canyon St. West Yellowstone, MT 59758

TABLE OF CONTENTS MEDIA RIDE HYPES AWESOME UTAH SNOWMOBILING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 GSSA NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 UPDATE ON ACCESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 USA SCHOLARSHIP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 USA AWARDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 DAVIS COUNTY SNOWMOBILE CLUB. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 MONTE CRISTO RIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 WINTER IN YELLOWSTONE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 UTAH SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION POKER RIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

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 23 October 7 November November 4 November 18 December December 2 December 16 Winter January 6 January 20 March February 24 March 9 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/

MEDIA RIDE HYPES AWESOME UTAH SNOWMOBILING

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s much as our Utah riders would like to keep the amazing Utah snowmobiling opportunities a secret, the reality is tourism is a driving force for economic stability, which in turn justifies our snowmobile programs administered by the Utah Division of State Parks & Recreation. To help sustain these programs USA has undertaken a television media project in March that will be aired throughout the Snow Belt this fall. The final product will be a 16-minute segment aired over the Destination Channel that is received in over 65 million households throughout North America. A key market area of this viewership is the Midwest and Northeast.

We want to show the unique beauty of Utah’s winter backcountry through real live scenes. But, equally important is the opportunity to capitalize on showing the true character and perspective of the snowmobile community. This covers everything from stewardship, access, safety, economic benefits, image, to just plain having fun.

To make this happen, USA first obtained a grant from the International Snowmobile Manufacturer’s Association and additional monetary support from State Parks & Recreation, Visit Park City/Summit County and Heber Valley Chamber of Commerce/Wasatch County. This fulfilled the financial commitment to retain SnowTrails TV, the producer of our “Snowmobile Utah” project. USA volunteers stepped-up to be the “cast” and we chose two primary areas for filming the material. The first base location was The Cabins at Bear River Lodge. Thanks to the generosity of owner, Roger Eggett, this is the perfect facility to showcase the Mirror Lake Highway corridor, Whitney Reservoir area and the North Slope/Elizabeth Pass area. The second base location was Daniels Summit Lodge, where owner Brent Hill was more than willing to help support our project. Again, this is a perfect facility to access the Daniels Loop, Strawberry area, Mill Hollow area and many other great snowmobile opportunities.

USA extends a sincere “THANKS” to all of the sponsors of this important project and we encourage you to visit www.snowut.com where information will be posted on the dates, time and channel for viewing the final product.

Utah State Parks

GSSA NEWS

by Deb Hudman

Thank you Mr. Groundhog for predicting more winter! Are you loving it?

January 9th ten riders did the Curtis Creek Loop from Monte around Hardware. Four of us stopped to take a horse drawn sleighwagon ride out to view the 600 head of elk and learn a bit about the Hardware Ranch. Back to our sleds it was cold and snowy and several managed to get stuck, but we all had a blast. Riders included Bruce Grandin, Jeff Bernard, Preston and Debbie Hudman, Gary Perigo and friend Dan, Larry Ramsey, Jimmy the dent man, and Larry and Doug Nance.

January 15th Jeff and Stacy Eddings, Preston and Debbie Hudman and Dennis Kowalewski went to Pinedale, Wyoming, and discovered the well kept secret of snowmobiling in Pinedale. We put on 120 miles Saturday, keeping mostly to trails as off-road had real deep, sugary snow. We left from Cora. There were beautiful flocked trees everywhere. We saw streams covered with snow with holes showing occasional glimpses of streams below. The stumps, rocks, and fallen trees had deep snow shapes on top of them. A cow moose lying in a small group of trees didn’t mind us at all and paid us no attention.

The trail went up steep mountains and down to the valleys, keeping a variety of ups and downs the whole time. I couldn’t help but think that it’s not in the destination where we have the most fun, but in the journey and enjoying time with friends. We stopped at Lava Mountain for lunch. We of course felt the famous Wyoming wind so spent more time riding than sitting on sleds visiting. Night fell as we headed for the trailhead and the snowflakes falling glistened in our headlights.

Sunday we trailered to Horse Creek. Yesterday we used scratchers all day but today we were in powder right away. Although the trail had most likely been groomed, we broke trail in about eight inches of fresh powder the first 25 miles. We went to Blind Bull Warming Hut and started a fire and hoped visibility would improve.

It didn’t so we rode to Box Y where we had lunch. We rode on up the trail to see 800 head of elk. There was powder all over, allowing lots of fun riding. We rode down the Grey’s River trail almost to Alpine but turned back as the sun was getting low. Heading back we encountered 3 elk sauntering up the trail. We kept a safe distance and followed them until they decided to climb off the trail into chest deep snow—no wonder they wanted to share the trail.

Coming back the pine trees stood tall like sentinels welcoming us back. It was dark as we returned from this 108 mile adventure and the night was filled with stars and a half moon.

We enjoyed our Pinedale visit and the hospitality of the folks in Pinedale. The men had attended an avalanche training Friday night and met a few of the locals, who gave them tips on where to ride.

Definitely a fun riding spot to return to.

Back in Utah for the Utah Snowmobile Association Poker Ride on

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January 23rd. Jeff Eddings, Lisa and Dennis Kowalewski, Preston Hudman and I rode out Friday setting up signs for the Poker Run. It was a beautiful day and I love the way the snow at Strawberry always sparkles. The snow is beautiful everywhere but seems to especially sparkle here at Strawberry. Dennis, Preston and I were grateful that Lisa kept close to Jeff hauling the trailer which allowed us to ride all over in the fresh powder off the trail. The next day was a fun Poker Run. A lot of time and effort went into setting up this event. The dart board was a fun start and the hot chocolate at two of the stops was refreshing. The snow was ideal and it was hard to get riders to come in off the great powder long enough to draw a poker chip. The prizes and raffle tickets were great and the prime rib dinner topped off the evening. We were happy our own Preston Hudman won second place in the Poker Run. It was fun meeting members in other clubs and visiting. A big thanks to the USA Board and to the Clubs who assisted in this event.

February 15th six of us, Jeff, Dennis, Larry, Gary, Preston and Debbie, rode up Trinity Ridge. Visibility was poor but the snow was good. Almost to the top we had to send out scouts Dennis and Jeff to find our trail. On the way back on a side trail, we climbed over at least a dozen fallen trees—luckily the snow covered them. At one point the tree was high across the road so the guys cut off the lower branches and we all drove underneath it. There were a lot of critter tracks and this didn’t look like a well traveled trail.

There were a lot of snow donuts/snow rollers. One had rolled onto the trail and was about 3½ feet across.

It blocked our trail and Dennis had to roll it off so we could pass.

The next day eight riders from our club, Jeff Eddings, Jeff Bernard, Bruce and Keith Grandin, Larry Ramsey, Dennis Kowalewski, We came down at Featherville and rode along the road and trail to Preston and Debbie Hudman went for a quick 20 mile ride, kick- Pine. We saw over 50 elk by the water or in a field where someone ing up the powder and enjoying the great Strawberry sparkling snow. is feeding them. 75 miles today.

February 6th a group of seven riders, Lisa and Dennis Kowalewski, Bruce and Keith Grandin, Jeff Eddings, Larry Ramsey and James Adelsgruber left Monte and met up with Jeff Bernard and Preston and Debbie Hudman at Hardware. We rode around by Old Ephraim’s Grave, riding in 5-6 inches of fresh powder. On to Bear Lake, playing all along the way. We rode down Hodges Canyon and had a pizza lunch in Bear Lake. The snow was great and we were surprised not to see a lot of other riders. We were able to mark mountains and make tracks in the snow all day. Only Jeff B. and Bruce got stuck good enough to make mention. The pines were covered heavy with snow, their branches drooping to their sides. It was a blue bird day and many remarked it doesn’t get any better than this!

February 13th eight of our Club met at the Hayhurst Bed and Breakfast in Pine, Idaho. Jeff and Stacey Eddings, Dennis and Lisa Kowalewski, Preston and Debbie Hudman, Gary Perigo and Larry Hampton. This is a beautiful bed and breakfast set in a cozy atmosphere in the mountains and the managers, Gary and Denise Freeman, are delightful. Saturday we joined the Idaho Snow Riders for their annual poker run. We left Featherville and drove through Rocky Bar, up James Creek and on to Atlanta. There we had a prime rib lunch. Back to Featherville made about 47 miles of riding.

Valentines Day started with a tasty breakfast. The day was hazy and overcast. Seven of us rode up Falls River and went around

by Prairie (the city). After a warm drink, we headed around the loop but rain/mist on our face shields kept visibility low. Our finger windshield wipers and wiping rags could hardly keep up. The snow was great and there were a couple fresh inches from last night.

We had our share of tip-overs and being stuck but it was a fun 54 miles. I loved all the deep snow piled up around the banks of the streams—between 3-4 feet deep.

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Back at the Hayhurst, Gary Freeman “came out to play” and got his snowbike out. Preston and Jeff tried it. It’s harder than it looks.

Hayhurst was a fun place to stay and the Freemans have become good friends. We all ate meals together with gals each bringing a meal to share with all. We had cheese enchiladas, lasagna soup, Ziti and chicken fried steak with corn and mashed potatoes. Desserts included pie, dump cake and cookies. No one ever left the table hungry. Good food and good company the entire weekend.

I couldn’t end the year without giving a big THANK YOU to the guides and sweeps who always make each ride fun and safe. It’s nice knowing I never need to worry if I get stuck or in trouble because everyone I ride with watches out for each other. The men in our Club are awesome and I especially appreciate the watchful eye they keep, making the rides fun for all. How you can pick out a trail on what looks to me like just another mountain is amazing. You’re the best, guys! Thanks. And while we’re mentioning thanks, many thanks to those who put up trail markers. They were a great help in Pinedale and are great in Utah. Someone has taken the time to put them up and it is appreciated by us as we ride.

SNOWMOBILERS KNOW COLD YETI COOLERS HELP THEM KEEP IT

ACSA is the national organization uniting the snowmobile community and promoting snowmobiling as a safe, fun and environmentally friendly family sport. It has never been more critical to support organized snowmobiling! You can now support ACSA and snowmobile access by getting that YETI cooler you have always wanted. Send your check for the coolers you want to the address below, and 20% of your purchase will be donated to ACSA. While you are writing the check, we hope you will also become a member of ACSA, and contribute to the ACSA Legal Defense Fund to help keep snowmobiling access open.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ORDER FORM

ROADIE 20 W __ T __ B __ ... ($249.99 EACH) … $______ TUNDRA 35 W __ T __ B __ … ($299.99 EACH) .. $______ NAME: _______________________________ TUNDRA 45 W __ T __ B __ … ($349.99 EACH) . $______ ADDRESS: _____________________________ TUNDRA 50 W __ T __ B __ …. ($379.99 EACH) . $______ CITY: ________________STATE: ____ ZIP: ____ TUNDRA 65 W __ T __ B __ …. ($399.99 EACH) . $______ PHONE: _______________________________ SHIPPING …………………………..… ($23 per cooler) . $______ EMAIL: ________________________________ ACSA MEMBERSHIP ($10 INDIVIDUAL;$15 FAMILY) SEND TO: (NOT REQUIRED FOR COOLER PURCHASE) ………...$______ ACSA

ACSA LEGAL DEFENSE FUND DONATION

271WOODLAND PASS, SUITE 216 EAST LANSING, MI 48823

……..… $______ SALES TAX … (add your state and local sales tax percentage) …$______ TOTAL ENCLOSED CHECK OR MONEY ORDER

PLEASE ALLOW TWELVE WEEKS FOR ORDER PROCESSING.

(NOT REQUIRED FOR COOLER PURCHASE)

(MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO “ACSA”

………….. $________

SNOWMOBILERS KNOW COLD YETI COOLERS HELP THEM KEEP IT

AVAILABLE IN WHITE, TAN OR BLUE

YETIs are built with onepiece, seamless construction – just like whitewater kayaks – to take all kinds of abuse.

So you can stand on it, sit on it, drop it and kick it * and never worry about it falling apart at the seams. *YETI not responsible for broken toes.

UPDATE ON ACCESS

by Curt Kennedy, USA – Director, Public Lands

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hen you get an opportunity to review the final Snow Scoop issue for this winter season there are several important initiatives that will impact our snowmobile access under processes that seem to have no end. I would like to provide you with my take on some of the key aspects of these access issues.

First, it has been very quiet on the National Forest front with respect to their charge to undertake winter travel planning in accordance with a court-ordered mandate. Through the grapevine, it appears that our National Forests in Utah will make every effort to capitalize on what has previously been done in establishing routes and areas that we currently access for snowmobiling. The nine major snowmobile complexes (17 primary areas) that are well mapped by the Utah Division of State Parks & Recreation are key to the opportunities that we must protect. Although USA volunteers will try to stay on top of this issue, it is important that you stay connected with your favorite riding areas and spread the word if something comes up. If and when it does, you need to be prepared to stay involved in the process until a final map is developed by the Forest Service. Summer does not postpone this issue!

My take on the ongoing Mountain Accord Project is the key focus currently seems to be on transportation issues for the skier community on the Wasatch Front and Back. Separate and apart from this project is the issue of Snowbird’s expansion into American Fork Canyon. This impacts the connection from the Tibble Fork Trailhead over to Wasatch Mountain State Park and the areas known as Major Evans Gulch and Mary Ellen Gulch. This access certainly is in jeopardy because public access rarely trumps private ownership and the land swaps that Snowbird has accomplished with the Forest Service places the snowmobile community at a disadvantage. It is still worth monitoring to see if some sort of compromise could be accomplished.

Congressman Rob Bishop’s “Public Lands Initiative” (known as the PLI) took a major step forward in January by the release of draft legislation called the Utah Public Lands Initiative Act. The 65-page document is still a work in progress, but it is the current culmination of years of more than 1,200 meetings with stakeholders in an attempt to bring to a conclusion the contentious debate about how to handle a long list of public land use issues in Utah.

Under the radar is 18 million acres of Federal land located in Emery, Duchesne, Uintah, Carbon, Grand, San Juan and Summit Counties.

The PLI is proposing to add 41 areas to the Wilderness system through the designation of more than 2.2 million acres. Another 1.8 million acres would be designated as “National Conservation Areas” which would reportedly offer greater flexibility for multiple-uses and opportunities for local involvement in the land management process. Next, it creates 7 “Special Management Areas” encompassing almost 100,000 acres. The stated goal is to protect for the benefit of present and future generations’ watershed, cultural, wildlife, and motorized, mechanized, and primitive recreational resources and to promote outdoor recreation (it would authorize snowmobiling in areas with at least six inches of snow coverage).

Furthermore, 8 “Canyon Country Recreation Zones” would be established covering more than 375,000 acres, generally to enhance existing and future recreational opportunities, but retain existing uses. There are many more proposals in this draft Act that are too numerous to mention in this short summary.

The devil is in the details regarding the true impact of the PLI on the snowmobile community. I have not had the opportunity to sit down and study maps associated with the proposals, but the acreage within Duchesne, Uintah and Summit Counties needs to be reviewed closely. There is a very interactive website that has been set up at www.utahpli.com where you can view the draft legislation, look at maps and make online comments. I have not seen a timeline for the comment period, but we really need people to look at the areas they are most familiar with and determine the merits or shortfalls of the current proposals. You know best what takes place on the snow!

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Vintage Snowmobile Race

Saturday, January 30, 2016 Sagebrush Downs Oval Track• Cora, WY From pinedale take HWY 191 west 6 miles, turn right on to HWY 352. track is on left 6 miles from junction on Sievers Subdivision Rd

racer meeting 10 am - race begins at 10:30 am youth 1 lap mini sled race (ages 12 and under) vintage open class 10 lap shootout one lunger 100 lap race (single cylinder and twin cylinder classes)

For more information and rules call Patrick @ 307-231-6161•Mike @ 307-360-7954•troy @ 307-749-9070 or visit www.pinedalesnowexplorers.com

january 30-31 island park, id

upcoming race events feb. 13 & 14- cora, wy xmr vintage ovals and sno x feb. 27 & 28- bondurant, wy xmr vintage ovals and sno x

snocross

snocross & vintage ovals

february 13-14 pinedale, wy

february 27-28 jackson, wy

contact ron wilkes 406-599-5991 ronwilkes64@hotmail.com Facebook: island park snocross series

contact: patrick ingram 307-231-6161 www.xmr-racing.com

contact: brian hasenack 307-733-7663 www.xmr-racing.com

march 5-6 driggs, id

snocross & vintage ovals

snocross & vintage ovals

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march 11-12

april 22-23

west yellowstone, mt

grand targhee ski area- alta, wy

snocross & vintage ovals

hill climb, hill cross & snocross

contact: mwr (thad) 208-870-6057 thadlawrence63@gmail.com www.mountainwestracing.com

photos: Sharyl Chapman, All About Pictures

USA SCHOLARSHIP

sport alive in your area? How would you promote and maintain membership both local and statewide as well as National?

by Stacey Eddings, Awards & Charities, USA

•• The application must be received by USA by April 1st, 2016.

he Utah Snowmobile Association (USA) will be offering a scholarship to either a graduating high school senior or an individual currently enrolled in college. This will be a $1,000 grant and will be given to the winner regardless of other grants or scholarships that the student may also receive.

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

T

Requirements are as follows: •• Applicant must be a member of the Utah Snowmobile Association.

•• Applicant must submit the completed application form.

•• Applicant must submit a résumé detailing his or her involvement in snowmobiling as well as extra-curricular activities.

•• Applicant must include an essay on: The 2014-15 Snowmobile Season took a big hit with Low Snow in many areas. In fact, some of the areas like California, Oregon, and Washington experienced a No Snow year. This was a gigantic impact on our sport. This resulted in low or no sleds registered, club memberships declined and State memberships took a big hit. The financial support needed to promote and maintain snowmobiling in this Country was affected more than ever before. Knowing all this, what would you do to keep this

Utah Snowmobile Association C/o Stacey Eddings 2645 East 7800 South South Weber, UT 84405 Utahsnowscoop@yahoo.com The winner of the USA scholarship will be announced at USA’s Annual Convention in April/May 2016. Additionally, the winner of the USA Scholarship will have their application submitted to the American Council of Snowmobile Associations Western Chapter Scholarship contest. The winner of this scholarship will be announced at the International Snowmobile Congress in June 2016 in Rapid City, South Dakota and will receive an additional cash prize.

Funding for the USA Scholarship comes from fundraising projects at the Intermountain Snowmobile Show. Funding for the Western Chapter Scholarship comes from financial support of member organizations and donations received throughout the year. The scholarship application can also be found on www.snowut.com.

USA AWARDS

by Stacey Eddings

The Utah Snowmobile Association recognizes six different individuals/groups each year for their efforts during the year. These efforts are not necessarily tied to just snowmobiling. The categories are: •• Snowmobiler of the Year •• Snowmobile Family of the Year •• Youth Snowmobiler of the Year •• Snowmobile Club of the Year •• 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. Deadline is April 1, 2016. Visit www.snowut.com to print the forms. Mail the completed form to the address listed below.

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

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DAVIS COUNTY SNOWMOBILE CLUB

by Eston Kimber

I

can’t believe it’s March already… Not enough time on the snow this year, and its winding down. I will be optimistic, though, and say April is going to be off the hook for high country riding. Who’s ready to tear it up?

The DCSC has had a great season. We had the Boondocker’s movie premier in November that funded an incredible day on the snow with the youth from Camp Kostopulos. We helped raise funds for the Utah Avalanche Center to help keep the reports coming in that keeps us on top of the snow. We took part in the USA Poker Ride at Strawberry and had a great showing of support from our club members, as well as non club members.

Our first Club ride was at the Sinks in Logan Canyon. We split up into two groups (Decided on rider’s abilities and personal choice) and took off for the day. The back country riders went into Franklin basin via Swan Flats, and found some great stashes of deep powder in the trees. The trail skimmers went to the sinks, but ran low on snow the further south they went, so they played around for a bit and headed back to the parking lot for a late hot lunch provided by the Club.

The Camp K Ride – The Club teamed up with our good friends at Weller Recreation, Boondocker’s (Dan Gardener and company), and the Utah Avalanche Center and gave the youth from Camp K a great get away for a day on the snow. It didn’t matter which way you looked, there were smiles everywhere! From playing in the snow, to eating some great pizza and donuts, and just spending time talking with these special people. Knowing the whole time that we just made their winter blues go away for a while… it just doesn’t get any better than that. We are looking forward to doing it all again next year but to a much larger scale. Stay tuned, and come help us out if you can.

Our February ride found the Club in Rifle, Colorado for the Club’s Annual Ride. We spent three days of riding in Elk Creek, Deep Creek, and a day on the Grand Mesa. A good time was had by all that attended. We had 25 club members and a few non members join in for the fun. A big shout out to the Rifle Snowmobile Club for guiding us around, and showing off their favorite stashes. Some day, we would like to return the favor!

Up and coming events - Our March ride is taking us to the Skyline area, and we planning an “Old Iron” ride in April. More information can be found on our FaceBook page and on our website www. daviscountysnowmobileclub.org All clubs and non club members are welcome to bring out the old iron and have a good time with us.

Since this is the last issue for the season, the DCSC would like to wish you all a great summer and we will see you this fall!

P.S. Keep up the snow dancing – this season isn’t dead yet!

Pictures on next page.

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DAVIS COUNTY SNOWMOBILE CLUB

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MONTE CRISTO RIDE

by Bruce Grandin

W

e had 6 inches of fresh powder at Monte, the clouds broke and we had a beautiful blue bird day. Bryce Whitaker and his wife Beth did a nice job of leading us around Monte. Bryce gave us some useful riding tips and let us try out his amazing Polaris 800. He was always the first one to dig us out. I wonder why we got stuck so much? Maybe because we were trying out Bryce’s riding tips?

I won the best crash of the day contest. A large spruce tree sucked me in and flipped my sled over. Bryce and Beth said that they are not used to riding in such a large group, we had 12 sleds. I do think Bryce earned the title of “Sled Herder” He did a nice job of keeping us all together. Gary Goodnuff was a first time rider with us and did very well. He and his wife Kim will be moving here from Pennsylvania soon. They will make excellent “Sled Heads” P.S. Jeff Bernard was seen riding a Polaris, don’t tell Frank.

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WINTER IN YELLOWSTONE

We went to Old Faithful and watched the geyser go off a couple of times. We ate lunch there and you can either take your own lunch,

by Russ Mangone Yes you can and should visit Yellowstone in the winter. It’s a win- eat at the grill they have in the lodge or the trip we took for an extra fee they will provide a sack lunch for you. That’s what we did and tery wonderland! it was a pretty good lunch.

Last month me and my wife went to Yellowstone and we were not The guide that we had was very knowledgeable of the Park and disappointed in the trip. its features and the history of the Park. We learned a lot about Yellowstone, how it was created, the different features such as geyWe stayed at the Brandin Iron Inn in West Yellowstone where the accommodations were great. The staff there were very friendly and sers, fountains and hot pots. We also learned a lot about the habits helpful also the rooms there are very nice. I would highly recom- of the wildlife that live there in Yellowstone. One of the best things about taking a Coach ride is that you don’t have to drive and you mend this place to stay. can sit back and enjoy the trip. The driver knows just where to stop We took one of the snow coach rides into the Park. This is a great and what to look for. way to see the Park. Not only are you riding in a comfortable vehicle, you are warm and you get a guided narrated tour. You get to see If you ever get the opportunity to do Yellowstone in the winter, plenty of wildlife up close. We saw plenty of Bison, Elk, a couple don’t pass it up. It will be an experience you’ll remember for a of coyotes and plenty of water foul and eagles. long time.

Pictures on next page.

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 18 • Promoting snowmobiling as a family activity • Providing safety awareness and education through the Safe Riders! program

WINTER IN YELLOWSTONE

19

UTAH SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION POKER RIDE

by Russ Mangone

T

he USA held their annual ride on January 23rd. It was a poker fundraiser ride and what a great ride it was. It started and ended at the Strawberry Bay Marina. Everyone signed up in the morning and got their first card by throwing darts to see what card they got (let’s say some people need to practice their dart throwing skills). Then they rode on their own around the Strawberry Complex to hit four other poker stops. The trail and stops were well marked so everyone knew where to go. Each of these stops were manned by one of the local snowmobile clubs; the Davis County Snowmobile Club, the Golden Spike Snowmobile Association, the Salt Lake Valley Snowmobile Club and the Chalk Creek Riders. There was hot chocolate at some of the stops and the Salt Lake Valley Snowmobile Club had a nice hot fire going at the warming hut.

The morning started out a little chilly, I understand it was 8 below zero, but the sun was shining and the snow conditions were great.

We want to thank the DNR for sending their groomer out the night before so that there was a nice groomed trail for those who chose to stay on the trail.

After the ride everyone ended up back at Strawberry Bay Marina Lodge where we announced the winners of the poker ride and had our fundraiser raffle giveaway. Thanks to a number of donors; we had some great prizes to raffle off.

The winners of the poker hands were as follows: 1st place Julie Harris $300.00, 2nd place Preston Hudman $200.00, 3rd place Carson Aldous $100.00 and worst hand went to Brian Campbell $50.00. Jay and Tara Ombach won the grand prize of an overnight stay and pontoon rental from Strawberry Bay Marina.

Congratulations to all the winners. Afterwards there was a prime rib dinner for all those who had signed up for it.

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We also had Adam Eakle from KSL Outdoors there filming for one of his shows. He did a great job with covering all the excitement and promoting organized snowmobiling. A great big thanks to those who took him out and showed him around. In case you missed the show you can go to KSL.com go to the TV tab and click on Outdoors with Adam Eakle, then find the story titled “Utah Snowmobiling Association”.

We want to give a great big thank you to all the sponsors who donated items for the raffle. Without them this wouldn’t have had the success that it did. They are: Curt Kennedy, DNR, FrankMay Ski Doo, Strawberry Bay Marina, Daniels Summit Lodge, Brandin Iron Inn, Ruby’s Inn, Box Y Lodge, Klim, Motorfist, Weller Recreation, R &M Lightning Products, Solitude Mountain Resort, Eddings Enterprises, Power House Motor Sports and KSL Outdoors.

We also want to thank Jeff Eddings, President of the USA and Russ Mangone, Secretary of the USA for organizing and putting this together. We would also like to thank all the clubs and all those who helped with putting this together and making it such a great event. They all did a great job. All in All everyone had a great time and lots of fun. Let’s do it again next year.

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