NYSSA Online Magazine - New York State Snowmobile Association

Transcription

New York
November 2015
SNOWMOBILER
Online
The Official Publication of the New York State Snowmobile Association
2016 “Free” Snowmobile Weekends - find out when and where! ! p. 2
Did you Know? What’s Happening at NYSSA ~ p. 8
When Do Trails Open? ~ p. 18
Snow-shows continue...p. 4, 19
NYSSA Online Magazine
Governor Cuomo Announces Winter Tourism Promotion
The weekend of January 16-18, 2016 (Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend) will be a free snowmobiling weekend to encourage out-of-state and Canadian snowmobile enthusiasts to sled in
New York State. State registration fees will be waived for properly registered and insured outof-state snowmobiling enthusiasts wishing to explore New York’s 10,500 miles of snowmobile
trails. Information on snowmobiling, including online registration for out-of-state snowmobilers is available here.
Reciprocal Snowmobile Weekend - New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine
January 29 - 31, 2016
Snowmobile enthusiasts can enjoy the trails in neighboring states during a special reciprocal weekend shared
by New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine. This three-day event will occur each year, provided that our
neighboring states continue to participate.
Following are the ground rules for the weekend:

All snowmobiles legally registered in Maine will be able to operate on New Hampshire trails during the
three-day open weekend. Please note that all other New Hampshire laws and rules regarding the operation
of snowmobiles must be adhered to, such as speed limits, youth operation standards, etc.

All New Hampshire snowmobile trails shall be open to snowmobiles properly displaying, pursuant to Vermont law, a valid Vermont Association of Snow Travelers, Inc. trails maintenance assessment, also known
as the trails pass. Please note that all other New Hampshire laws and rules regarding the operation of snowmobiles must be adhered to, such as speed limits, youth operation standards, etc.

All snowmobiles legally registered in New Hampshire will be able to operate in Vermont and Maine during the reciprocal weekend. All other Vermont and Maine snowmobile laws and rules must be complied
with, including Vermont mandatory liability insurance, youth requirements, and safety card requirement
for those born after July 1, 1983.

For more information: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/ohrv/recip-weekend.html
Free access to FCMQ trails everywhere in Quebec
Open House Event - February 6-7, 2016
The FCMQ and the thousands of volunteers from its 205 member snowmobile clubs invite you to discover the
world's foremost snowmobile trail system free of charge (FREE TEMPORARY TRAIL PERMIT REQUIRED) for an entire weekend. During the entire weekend, you will have access to 32,000 kilometres
(20,000 miles) of marked and groomed trails, securely maintained by our 4,500 volunteers. Best of all, no trail
permit will be required. Get your free temporary trail permit
Québec's trail network is renowned worldwide for its high maintenance standard, its accessibility and its regional interconnectedness. Come experience for yourself the product of the tireless devotion and commitment
of our thousands of dedicated volunteers, and you too will become a believer!
For more info, please see: https://www.chaudiereappalaches.com/en/activitiesattractions/snowmobile/snowmobile-open-house-event/
Contact NYSSA: PO Box 1040, Pine Bush, NY 12566-1040 * EMAIL - nyssaoffice@nysnowmobiler.com
TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * FAX: (888) 317-2441 *
www.nysnowmobiler.com
November 2015 - Page 2
CONTENTS
New York
SNOWMOBILER
Online
Publisher:
Editor:
The New York State
Snowmobile Association
P. O. Box 1040,
Pine Bush, NY 12566-1040
Anne O’Dell
nyssaoffice@nysnowmobiler.com
888-624-3849 x101
“Free” Snowmobiling Weekend comes to NY!
P. 2
President’s Message. ...Jim Elmore
P. 4
From the Desk of the Executive Director ...D. Jacangelo
P. 7
Did you Know? What’s Happening at NYSSA.. R. Warner
P. 8
Officer Nomination Form
P.13
Trail Coordinator Report ...Jim Rolf
P. 15
When Do Trails Open?
P. 18
Member Discounts.. Yours year round!
P. 24
Time to Renew!
P. 25
AD RATES
2015-16 Officers
President
Jim Elmore, 585-813-4610
president@nysnowmobiler.com
Vice
President
Craig LaPlante, 315-854-6719
vicepresident@nysnowmobiler.com
Secretary
Rosanne Warner, 315-697-8130
secretary@nysnowmobiler.com
Treasurer
John Occhino, 845-225-3140
treasurer@nysnowmobiler.com
Staff
Executive
Director
Dominic Jacangelo, 888-624-3849 x104
dominic@nysnowmobiler.com
Jim Rolf, 888-624-3849 x102
Trail
Coordinator jrolf@nysnowmobiler.com
General
Manager
Anne O’Dell, 888-624-3849 x101
nyssaoffice@nysnowmobiler.com
Membership 888-624-3849 x103
membership@nysnowmobiler.com
Helpline
Join or Renew Membership Online:
Our Website: www.nysnowmobiler.com
New York State Office of Parks,
Recreation & Historic Preservation’s
Website
www.nysparks.com/recreation/snowmobiles
DMV, Register a Sled: NY Resident
DMV, Register a Sled: Out of State
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President’s Message
by Jim Elmore, NYSSA President 585-813-4610 president@nysnowmobiler.com
I consider November an important month of the snowmobile season. With no snow on the
ground and the temperatures still above the freezing mark,this is a time where a majority of our
clubs and volunteers are working on getting the trails ready for December. Clubs are holding fundraising activities and youth safety classes for our under 18 members. The strong fall winds have turned the gorgeous
autumn colors of the woods and forests into bare trees. They are now ready to handle the large amounts of snow expected for this winter. Many snowmobilers are planning that long weekend trip to their special area they love to ride
during the season.
Rochester Snow Show
Before we get too far into thinking about the upcoming season, I would like you to consider a
quick trip to Rochester, New York this November.
The Hilton Sno-Flyers will be hosting their annual
snowmobile show on November 21st and 22nd .
This great event is held at The Garden Factory on
Buffalo Road (Rt31) off Interstate 490 just outside of Rochester in the town of Gates. This
snowmobile show is just part of the other fun
activities inside The Garden Factory. The Hilton
Sno-Flyers snowmobile club will have several
snowmobile dealers and outfitters at the event.
Last year there were some great bargains for
many items pertaining to snowmobiling or for the
home and garden. The Monroe County clerk will
have their mobile DMV satellite office set up to handle your registrations. Inside the middle of the building is a flatbed
tractor trailer with a model railroad exhibit built on top of it. This display is a wonderful work of railroading with the
landscape and trains running the rails. Everyone from the very young to our seasoned folks loves to stand and watch
this large display of trains go by.
This event is one of the best snowmobile shows in the State and well worth a couple hours drive to stop in and visit. If
you want something to do with the kids or the grandkids or you still feel you are a kid at heart, please stop in and visit
with Santa at his Christmas village. They also have a small amusement park inside the store for the young kids to enjoy. For the bigger kids, they have new snowmobiles or lawn tractors for you to try out. If you are looking for that
unique gift for someone, the Garden Factory might just have it. The store is loaded with all types of merchandise for
your home and garden. Homemade goodies to snack on and favorite items your pet will love. If you need any additional information please check the club`s webpage at http://www.hiltonsnoflyers.net/ or their Facebook page.
Snowmobile Friends
If you are a snowmobiler there is a good chance you have met others you would never have met
before from the seat of your sled. It is always nice to meet new people on the trails or at some
club event. NYSSA is a strong supporter of the International Snowmobile Congress. We just
hosted the 2015 Congress this past June in Niagara Falls. Snowmobilers from North America and
Russia meet for the week to talk about all the issues pertaining to our sport. There are other
snowmobiling groups involved with the Congress that all have a vested interest in the continuous
growth of snowmobiling. I have attended several Congresses and have met some great people
and made new friends.
Roger Lampitt.
At this month’s NYSSA directors meeting we were informed of the passing of a dear friend and
great ambassador of the sport of snowmobiling. Mr. Roger Lampitt of Tacoma, Washington
(Continued on page 5)
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(Continued from page 4)
passed away on October 22, 2015 at the young age of 71. Roger had an extensive resume involving snowmobiling;
from starting out as a local club president, to his induction into the International Snowmobile Hall of Fame in Wisconsin.
He was also inducted into the Iron Dog Brigade and many other snowmobile organizations. He devoted his life to the
sport and was always fighting to keep the government from shutting down open land out west. Roger had a great gift
of communicating. He could tell a story and you would feel like you were there with him when the event happened.
Roger donated his voice and time to all the ISC`s charity auctions during the week. He help raise a lot of money for the
legal defense fund with his great voice. Roger told me he has been to every ISC except one; he even attended the
1980 ISC in Niagara Falls. He told me to make sure I get out to Yellowstone to ride before I regret it someday. He told
me he has spent countless winters riding the park over his life span and enjoyed every mile of it. The next ISC and the
others that follow will not be the same without him. Roger will be sadly missed by his wife and children and his snowmobile community friends. The snowmobile community across the Country lost a great advocate for the sport with the
passing of Roger Lampitt.
I would like to wish Happy Thanksgiving to all our members, please stay safe and we will see you on the trails soon.
James Elmore, President
SOUTHERN TUG HILL SNO-RIDERS
EDUCATION DAY
by Betty Haig
On Saturday, November 14, approximately 30 members from
area snowmobile clubs participated in a New York State
Snowmobile Association (NYSSA) trail signage course
(STEP Program) and Groomer Operator Training course.
The class was sponsored by Southern Tug Hill Sno-Riders
(STHSR) and the Lewis County Snowmobile Association
with Jim Rolf, NYSSA Trail Coordinator as the instructor.
The class was held at the Hideaway Restaurant in West
Leyden where lunch was provided by STHSR. This also
happened to be the day of the first sign of snowflakes falling
so the anxiety is building to 'hit the trails'.
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Adirondack Powersports
Appolson’s
Bibben’s Sales
Bob Weaver’s Motorsports
Buck’s Motorsports
Caprara’s Outdoor World
Cycle Motion
Cycle Shack
Della Motorsports
Don’s Polaris
Edelmann Sales, Inc
Excell Motorsports
Fun Unlimited
Gamble Distributors
Griffin Motorsports
Hermans Performance
Ingles Performance
Ithaca Recreation
Jan-cen Automotive
K&H Kawasaki
Kubecka’s Polaris
Leisure Time
Maddie’s
Matt’s Cycle Center
Menneto Powersports
Moody Polaris
O’Neil Sales
Pioneer Motorsports
Polaris of Riverhead
Powerhouse Motorsports
Precision Power
Preferred Powersports
Schoff Polaris
Sled Shop Racing
Sportline Power
Sports Unlimited
T. Nelson Sales
TC Sports
Teixeira’s Polaris
Waite Motorsports
Zahm & Matson, Inc.
Zambri Motorsports
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From the Desk of the Executive Director
By Dominic Jacangelo, Executive Director
dominic@nysnowmobiler.com 888-624-3849 x104
RTP: Good News!
Thank you to everyone who sent a letter, note, or e-mail to their US
House Member expressing the importance of the Recreational Trails Program in the Federal Highway Bill (“Surface Transportation Reauthorization and Reform Act”). The Act as passed in the House on Thursday,
November 5th will cover a six-year authorization, but only funds the first
three years. The bill authorizes spending up to $325 billion (yes, that is
with a “b”) over the next six years on highways and mass transit.
Congressman Richard Hanna (NY-22), who sits on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, joined the NYSSA Board of Directors
at our monthly meeting in Canastota on November 7th to provide us with
a few insights into the bill and the process which led to House passage.
I had the opportunity to meet the Congressman a few years back when
he met with a group of snowmobilers from his area in his district office in
Utica on the same subject. The Congressman has become a real supporter of RTP and worked diligently to keep it in the Federal Highway
bill; a fact which was confirmed by the American Council of Snowmobile
Associations. From the Congressman’s perspective, this is money we pay
in through the gasoline we put in our sleds. Why shouldn’t we get something in return?
Two amendments were offered which would have impacted the Recreational Trails Program which returns the highway fuel taxes paid by motorized recreational vehicles to all types of trail projects around the country. In New York the program is particularly important to snowmobile
Congressman Hanna.
clubs since it is the only grant program which provides assistance for the
purchase of a groomer and drag. One amendment would have killed the RTP program and the other would have only
made motorized recreation eligible for funding. On the surface that second amendment sounds attractive until you
realize that the program only exists in the first place because a coalition of many trail organization fought for the program 20 years ago. In my opinion this could very well have been a divide and conquer tactic.
The House bill along with the Senate version will now be “conferenced” by the two Houses. The good news is that
RTP is not likely to be touched by the conference committees since it appears in both versions and because of the way
Congress works, there can be no amendments from the Floor to a conferenced bill.
I am looking forward to some cold weather and some
really good snow this winter. I guess all of us together
can make a difference on what happens in Washington
and Albany but we still can’t make it snow! I look forward to seeing you on the trail.
Happy Thanksgiving!
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Did You Know?? What’s Been Happening at NYSSA.
From the Desk of the New York State Snowmobile Association Secretary – November 2015 Edition
By: Rosanne Warner, NYSSA Secretary, secretary@nysnowmobiler.com
The New York State Snowmobile Association is working to keep its members better informed of the issues that NYSSA faces on a
daily basis. Hot off the presses here is a re-cap of what happened at the November 2015 NYSSA Board of Directors meeting.
NYSSA Board of Directors Meeting Schedule (All meetings begin at 1:00 pm)
December 5, 2015 – Rusty Rail, Canastota NY
May 21, 2016 - TBD
January 9, 2016 – Byrncliff, Varysburg, NY
June – No Meeting
February 6 – Beeches, Rome, NY
July 16, 2016 - TBD
March 5 – Tailwater Lodge, Altmar, NY
August – No Meeting
April 2 – 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, Clayton, NY
September 10, 2016 - TBD
April 29-May 1, 2016 – FORUM/Annual Meeting,
Lake Placid, NY (www.nyssaforum.com)
October TBD - Big East weekend
November 5, 2016 - TBD
US Congressman Hanna Visits
US Congressman Richard Hanna, who also sits on the transportation committee, attended the meeting. He spoke to the
Board about his support of the RTP program, the Social Security system, gas tax, mass transit, the Keystone Pipeline,
and the economic impact that snowmobiling has on municipalities within the Adirondack Park.
Recreational Trail Program (RTP)
The efforts to keep the RTP program in place were successful because people from all user groups gave their support.
All trail users enlisted the help of lobby groups to assist in the fight to keep the program in place. RTP grants come
from a small portion of the highway tax we all pay when we fill our sleds with gas. Since we do not use our snowmobiles on the highway, the RTP grant is a means to get some of those funds back for good use.
Forest Preserve Advisory Committee Updates
NYSSA has been in attendance at the Forest Preserve Advisory committee meetings. NYSSA has had to defend the right
to keep snowmobile trails in the forest preserve and will continue to attend the meetings to assure that snowmobile uses
are a continued use throughout the state.
Insurance Request for Proposals (RFP)
The newly drafted Insurance RFP has been places on the NYSSA website and responses from Insurance carriers are requested. The RFP can be viewed at: http://www.nysnowmobiler.com/
Policy Manual Updates
NYSSA is working to update the Policy Manual. The new award for Youth Snowmobiler of the Year award and new Director Certification forms were not updated in policy when passed by the board. An updated Policy Manual is expected
to be completed by the December Board of Directors meeting.
Automated Trail Grant Program (AGTP)
A notice to all clubs that the ATGP will institute a 60-day submission window went out to all grant administrators. The requirement will take effect officially January 1, 2016 but NYSSA is recommending to all clubs that they begin
submissions now.
A new feature has been added to the program that requires both Sponsors and Parks to complete a pop-up box
when rejections to submissions are made. This pop-up will require they submit an explanation on why the rejection was
made. An email will be sent to the Grant Administrator and Sponsor notifying them of the reason for rejection.
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The grant user guide and tutorials located on the site will be updated soon. Once Parks has all of the system
updates in place a Training Webinar will be scheduled for all Grant Administrators.
Phase I reviews are complete and the last of them were returned in the first week of November 2015.
Mileage tables have been returned to the Sponsors. There were 77 miles added to the system this year.
Grant payout will are expected to be higher and $4.3 million dollars will be distributed from the fund which is
more than a 5% increase from last year.
Parks is waiting for the Division of Budget to approval the rates as proposed and 70% vouchers will be sent to
sponsors once that it done. Parks hopes to begin sending the 70% vouchers out starting next week which would be the
earliest they have ever gone out. Parks reported that there were sponsors who submitted incomplete Phase II packages. Once those Sponsors submit the information as required, the state will begin processing the payments.
The most up-to-date (November 2015) State Trails Map will go to print next week. They are expected to be
completed by the second week of December.
Parks has reviewed and updated the Trail Sign Manual and a draft has been sent to the Communication Department for review. Once the draft is back, it will go to NYSSA for review.
A revised complete Grant Guidance Document will be issued in late February/early March and will include all
phases of the grant process. NYSSA is completing recommendations for revisions to the Groomer Classification section
and will submit them to the state.
NYSSA urges all clubs to SUBMIT ALL TRAIL RELATED EXPENSES to establish a true cost of trail maintenance
throughout the state. Please do not stop recording expenses when your grant amount as we are trying to establish the
true cost of our trail system.
Proposed Reimbursement Rates
Corridor A - $335/mile
Secondary A - $335/mile
Corridor B - $275/mile
Secondary B - $275/ mile
High Snow - $300/mile. (Slight Decrease)
Adirondack Rail Trail
A final determination was made on the Adirondack Rail Trail and the report is
located on the Adirondack Park Agency’s (APA) website. http://apa.ny.gov
NYSSA has concerns about date changes that were proposed by the Department of Transportation. This suggested date
change to the permit would prevent club activity and snowmobile use on the rails until January instead of December.
NYSSA caught this change and enlisted the help of its lobby firm, Capitol Group, Senator Griffo and Assemblyman Brindisi to pressure the state and got the date changed back to the original permit date of December. The determination also calls
for a State implemented curfew and speed limit from Tupper Lake to Lake Placid. The Adirondack Park Agency (APA) will review the
issue at their next meeting and can either accept the plan as written or it reserves the right to make changes. The updates must go
out for public comment and NYSSA expects that comment period to last 30 days. Once the public comment period is opened, NYSSA
will issue a list of bullet points to include in comments back to the APA.
Junction Signs Link
Junction sign numbers have been updated again and the junction sign map can be viewed at:
http://nysparks.com/recreation/snowmobiles/maps.aspx (Google Earth will be needed to view the map)
Unfunded trail junctions are not assigned by Parks or NYSSA. They are assigned by the local Sponsor or
Trail Coordinator.
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Madison, Broome and Hamilton County signs were picked up by those County Directors at the meeting.
Any club that needs to order Funded Trails junction signs can do so themselves and submit the expense into the AGTP
submission for reimbursement in Phase III of the grant program.
NYSSA Membership Updates
As of November 7, 2015, NYSSA/Club memberships surpassed 20,000 members. NYSSA notes that more riders are renewing their memberships earlier this year than in past seasons.
Internal Audits Completed
Internal audits were completed for both NYSSA and SLEDNY. A Management Agreement between NYSSA and SLEDNY
will be drafted to include rates to be paid to NYSSA by SLEDNY. NYSSA will need to develop a rate that includes reimbursement of the time that NYSSA employees spend on SLEDNY issues. A guidance document will be developed for the
payment of budgetary expenses.
Government Affairs
Capitol Group presented a report on work currently being done by NYSSA on the following issues:
Trail fund increases derived from more of the DMV registration going directly into the fund
Youth Special Events Legislative Proposal
Failure to Register Legislative Proposal
Erie Canal Use – Lockport to Amherst
Rt. 12 Alder Creek Crossing
Remsen-Lake Placid Travel Corridor UMP
Real Property Tax Abatement for Landowners
Snowmobiles for Emergency Use
Take a Friend Snowmobiling
NYSSA’s Response to the Remsen-Lake Placid UMP
NYSSA purchased some helmets for the Take a Friend Snowmobiling events. NYSSA will reach out to clothing distributors about donations of additional gear including gloves and boots for youth participants.
NYSSA recommends that clubs pass a resolution stating that “if called upon in an emergency that all related activities
shall be considered club business”. NYSSA is working with authorities (NYS Troopers) to clarify communication in the
event of an emergency.
Landowners Relations
NYSSA has been working to provide agricultural landowners, who allow snowmobile trails on their private property,
some tax relief. A bill has been drafted that proposes a tax credit for landowners who are zoned agricultural and allow
snowmobile trail use. NYSSA has had conversations with the Farm Bureau about the proposed legislation and they are
in support of the bill. NYSSA is working with Senator DeFrancisco in an effort to get it to the Senate for passage. Work
is still in progress to present it to the Assembly.
Safety & Education
NYSSA is working to retool the STEP advisor report form. Development of a bookmark checklist on basic signage, emergency tools and spares to carry is in the draft stages. NYSSA has also been reviewing possible online training courses
for possible use down the road. A STEP training class will be hosted by the Shawnee Snow Chiefs in Niagara County
and will be taught by NYSSA Trail Coordinator, Jim Rolf. Contact the club to reserve a seat.
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Events & Promotions
NYSSA has been attending events all over New York and parts of Pennsylvania. Riders are inquiring about places to stay
and where to drop. NYSSA will research the possibility of including more tourism information on the new website.
2016 Forum – Lake Placid
NYSSA is in the planning stages of the 2016 Forum and Annual meeting that will be held in Lake Placid. New classes
and sessions will be added to the event this year. The Vintage Show will continue this year and be held on the 1932
indoor ice arena. NYSSA is currently working on the Attendee Registration packets and not only hope to have them out
to clubs earlier this year. NYSSA is working to significantly reduce the cost of the registration fees for all attendees.
Membership Vouchers
NYSSA is asking clubs to make sure that they enter membership names as they are seen on the member’s sled registration and/or driver’s license. The DMV’s are requiring that the names on the license and registration match the voucher
exactly. To update member names, please email member id, old name, new name to:
membership@nysnowmobiler.com.
Main NYSSA Website - http://www.nysnowmobiler.com
With the hard work of General Manager, Anne O’Dell, NYSSA is working to replace the main website. The new website is
in development and NYSSA will have it up and running as soon as possible.
Membership Website - https://membership.nysnowmobiler.com
NYSSA has adopted a strategy regarding the membership website and recognize the need to improve the membership
system within the confines of the budget available.
Bylaws Change Proposals
To date, three Bylaw changes have been submitted to NYSSA for review.
Nomination of Officers
Officer Nomination forms will be included in future issues of the online magazines and are also available in the Members
Only section of the website. (see next page!)
Hall of Famer Passing
The former President of the Iron Dog Brigade, Hall of Famer and Friend to NYSSA, Roger Lampitt of Yakima, Washington passed away of stage 4 cancer on October 22nd. Roger was well known in the International Snowmobiling community and will be missed by all. In his memory, NYSSA will make a $100 donation to the Snowmobile International Hall of
Fame.
Attention students and parents!
Application Deadline for NYSSA Scholarships is February 29, 2016!
2016 NYSSA Application and Instructions:
PDF
MS Word
Each year, NYSSA awards two $500 scholarships:


Norris Brusoe NYSSA Scholarship
Joan & Digger Vriessen NYSSA Scholarship
Only members of NYS Snowmobile Clubs as of January 1, 2016 will be eligible for these Scholarships.
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Trail Coordinator Report
by Jim Rolf, NYSSA Trail Coordinator
888-624-3849 x 102
jrolf@nysnowmobiler.com
Lake effect snow squalls
blanketed the ground in places this
past Saturday, hopefully giving us all
a slight hint at what’s to come this
winter! It was too early anyhow, as
the snowmobile trails don’t officially
open until the NYS DEC Big Game
Hunting Seasons close (see below
and page 16).
Trail Signing and Groomer
Operator Classes
NYSSA helps to teach these
classes to club volunteers each year.
I myself have taught 5 such classes
so far this year, and other volunteer
Snow at The Tug Hill Hideaway on Sat, where I taught both the STEP classes and Groomer
instructors have taught more than
Operator classes to over 30 attendees.
that across the State, with more
scheduled. These such classes offer
education on the specific signing guidelines that NYS Parks has in place along with experienced input to have clubs better understand signing trails. The Groomer Operator Safety Courses are based on an international program to certify
potential new groomer drivers having attended such a safety course, which is required within many State land permits
with clubs. Contact me if your club or County-wide association of federation is interested in scheduling these classes
local to you.
Adirondack Rail Trail proposal…
Well, the DEC and DOT finally came to their agreement on the Remsen-Lake Placid Travel Corridor Unit Management Plan (UMP), sending it to the Adirondack Park Agency (APA) for their review last week. The APA approved it and
now they are accepting public input for one more final 30-day comment period in regards to the UMP adhering to the
Adirondack Park State Land Master Plan. The APA feels it does, so any comments should specifically address that official
policy standard.
NYSSA will comment on the UMP to the APA in hopes of having one small item corrected within the document.
The UMP text appears to mandate the proposed restrictions on snowmobile use near populated areas. NYSSA feels that
while snowmobiles have been using the Corridor for many years, only the Tupper Lake municipality has so far enacted a
slight time restriction on the Corridor within the Village limits. With the rails removed, snowmobile use is expected to
increase dramatically and there is the potential for issues to develop that may need to be dealt with at that time. However, the paragraph within the UMP final document should be changed to the effect that, "Nothing in this document
prevents local government for enacting regulations regarding speed and hours of operation....".
Otherwise, NYSSA generally supports the other provisions the State has proposed and looks forward to the fourseason, multi-use trail that will remain open to snowmobile use to finally begin to be built. This will certainly help the
Tri-Lakes region and the whole Adirondacks as a whole with a much-needed economic boost from tourists that walk,
hike, bike, run, jog, ride horses, snowmobile, cross-country ski, snowshoe, and any other allowed recreational activity
that one can do on such a trail. The long-standing controversy over the final designated use is over and the process has
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to go through this one final step. Thank you to all that have taken the opportunities to provide input, opinions, and
comments to get the UMP reopened and then to have it reviewed for the partial conversion to a trail that will help the
ADKs with authorized snowmobile use.
The UMP can be viewed here: http://apa.ny.gov/ , in the “headline news section”. The Press Release can be
found here: http://apa.ny.gov/Press/pressrelease.cfm?PressReleaseID=536 .
Public comments of support with the one issue noted above to be better looked at need to be sent
here, by December 18th, 2015 to: SLMP_Comments@apa.ny.gov. Submitting positive public comments do indeed help our causes and partnerships with State agencies, and are appreciated by the entire snowmobiling community.
Points to include in your comments can be similar to the following:

A multi-use trail between Big Moose and Lake Placid will result in much more economic revenue to the communities along and near the Corridor, with much more use by residents and tourists

The proposal does not require significant modification of the Corridor's designation on the National Register of
Historic Places. While the rails and ties are listed as one of the historic structures, the integrity of the Travel
Corridor along with its other structures (bridges and stations) will be preserved. Removal of the rails in Segment 2 will permit increased year-round public use of the corridor. Appropriate interpretive signs can then be
installed a;erting many more people of the Corridor's place in the history of the Adirondacks.

The FINAL plan conforms to the Adirondack Park State Land Master Plan and should be implemented as soon as
practically possible

I believe that the language under "Snowmobile use within the Corridor, Segment 2" on page 49 should be modified. Snowmobile restrictions within the Corridor regarding time and speed regulations should be left to the municipalities to develop, not included within the UMP itself

Opportunities to develop trails for snowmobile use between the Old Forge and Tupper Lake are not feasible.
Land management issues, environmental roadblocks, and lawsuits would end that plan
Essex Chain of Lakes UMP finally approved
The Essex Chain of Lakes UMP plans are finally approved! The Press Release for that can be seen here:
http://apa.ny.gov/Press/pressrelease.cfm?PressReleaseID=537 . Thank you all again for submitting public comments on
these plans, as we need to keep the grassroots campaigns going to have our voices heard!
TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * FAX: (888) 317-2441 *
Trail Opening Dates
Each year we like to put out the dates when most landowners require clubs to delay opening the trails, mostly
due to hunting but also due to livestock still being in the fields and crops possibly needed to be harvested. The Northern Zone gun firearms season ends Dec. 6th, but in some areas the late bow season runs until the 13th. The Southern
Zone regular firearms season ends on Dec. 13th, but the late muzzleloader and bow seasons end on 22nd. Here is a link
to the NYS 2015 hunting seasons: http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/huntingseasons15.pdf .
Please be aware that clubs many times have land use agreements with their landowners outlining specific dates
the trails must remain closed until. If in doubt, contact the club(s) in the area that you want to ride IF there is sufficient
snow cover to allow riding before the date above. Please don’t jeopardize land access because you want to ride before
our season begins. Yes, it is a short season for us, but landowners are the ones who generously allow for the snowmobile trails to be allowed in the first place. It’s about RESPECT!
Trail Safety
When the trails do officially open and the snow depth is sufficient to ride, please be safe out there! Stay right
on the marked trails and think about everyone else on the trails. It’s about riding and getting home each time…not
about getting to your destination as fast as you can, out of control.
And remember to DIM your high beam headlights to ALL oncoming traffic all winter, please!
THINK!
You are an ambassador of this sport.
Support Our National Organization and WIN!!
ACSA Cash Calendars Are Now Available
The 2016 ACSA Cash Calendars are now available for purchase. The
proceeds from the Cash Calendar sales are a fundraiser for ACSA and
the State Snowmobile Associations.
Place your calendar order today, celebrate our 20th anniversary and get
12 months of snowmobile events and activities. In addition, there are
365 prizes awarded throughout the year!! Calendars are available for a
tax-deductible $20 contribution. There are drawings all year long!
Your $20 contribution will not only get your 2016 ACSA Cash Calendar, but it will also support our
work to help connect and defend snowmobile trails across the country, and $5 of it comes back to
NYSSA. These calendars also make great gifts….especially when the recipient receives a check in
the mail for their winnings!
Make sure you don’t miss out—order yours today! Mail your $20 check (made payable to ACSA) to
NYSSA, PO Box 1040, Pine Bush, NY 12566. We’ll get your calendar to you by return mail.
The American Council of Snowmobile Associations is our voice on national snowmobile issues. ACSA provides national leadership and coordination to advance the efforts of all organizations who promote responsible snowmobiling across the U.S.
TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * FAX: (888) 317-2441 *
When Do Trails Open?
Each year we like to put out the dates when most landowners require clubs to delay opening the trails, mostly
due to hunting but also due to livestock still being in the fields and crops possibly needed to be harvested. The Northern Zone gun firearms season ends Dec. 6th, but in some areas the late bow season runs until the 13th. The Southern
Zone regular firearms season ends on Dec. 13th, but the late muzzleloader and bow seasons end on 22nd. Here is a link
to the NYS 2015 hunting seasons: http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/huntingseasons15.pdf .
Please check with the club(s) in the area you intend to ride for the date their trails will be open.
Club contact info can be found at https://membership.nysnowmobiler.com/club/statemap.
TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * FAX: (888) 317-2441 *
Hiltebrant Recreation Center Pavilion
Old Forge, NY
* 2016 Snowmobile Models *
* Vintage Snowmobile Show *
* Kitty-Cat/120cc Races *
* Vendors & Raffles *
Free Admission, Free Parking & Shuttle Bus.
http://visitmyadirondacks.com/snodeo/index.html
39th ANNUAL SNODEO HOURS:
Friday, 12/11 3pm - 7pm
Saturday, 12/12 9am - 5pm
Sunday, 12/13 10am - 2pm
TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * FAX: (888) 317-2441 *
Club Spotlight: Pulaski-Boylston Snowmobile Club
By Christine Powers-Gross
American Industrialist Henry Kaiser said: “As I understand it sport is hard work for which you do not get paid”. The
volunteers of the Pulaski-Boylston Snowmobile Club (PBSC) know it takes hard work to maintain its 95 miles of snowmobile trails and the equipment to make the trails safe and smooth. This area is in the “snowbelt” which is characterized by heavy amounts of lake affect snow = heavy snow accumulations.
The snowmobile trails of the Pulaski-Boylston Snowmobile Club are diverse in elevation, at 279 feet along the Lake Ontario (Selkirk) shoreline to 1480 feet of the Tug Hill Plateau (Little John Forest). Experience the wildlife, smell of pines
and spectacular sunsets at Selkirk Shores State Park, then ride east over rolling farm lands through Altmar and Chateaugay State Forests, to a favorite photo opportunity at the Salmon River Falls. Or ride the abandon railroad beds on
your way to deep snow forest trails and
seasonal roads in the Winona & Little John
State Forests.
Volunteers sometimes work harder in the
Summer than in the Winter grooming, as
the club takes on necessary projects that
reflect the perseverance and attitude of the
club. Over 1000+ orange posts were
added to the trails for easier navigation and
map kiosks for directions as you enter our
trails from other neighboring club trails –
Mexico, Kasoag, Redfield, Barnes Corners
This Spring the Club joined forces with the
Oswego County ATV Club to reroute a trail
(S52D) for snowmobiles and ATVs to access services along Route 13 in the Village
of Pulaski. The nearly 1- mile trail had been
previously closed by the landowner, for
which Charlie Caprara purchased the land
adjoining the closed trail and opened it for
snowmobile and ATV use. The shared resources of the 2 clubs made the new trail
happen, with over 600 yards of gravel hauled in and 100s of hours in donated labor by members of both clubs. Generous donations from local businesses – FX Caprara, Parker's Excavating, and Ponderosa Steakhouse helped to ease the
project's financial burden to the clubs. Coffins Sand & Gravel and North Country Contracting donated machinery to
open the first part of trail. The trail was open to ATVs this past summer, and this winter when the snow arrives it will
be groomed and opened to snowmobiles.
At PBSC we have a wonderful mix of volunteers with various talents and skills that go beyond the call of duty – mechanics, welders, heavy equipment operators, cooks - all working together for the good of the club. Four members
repaired 4 groomers in the shop for a total of 600+ work hours using a shop rate of $80, saving the club well over
$40,000 in labor, and rebuilding parts instead of buying new saved the club thousands of dollars. Bridges are often
built in the garage and then transported to a site. During the salmon fishing season this Fall the “BBQ Team” hosted 6
Chicken BBQs that provides funds for operating expenses.
PBSC continues to improve their trail system, but it is impossible to do without new and younger members to carry on
the work. Join our club, make new friends, and help make a difference. Join us for the “Take A Friend Snowmobiling”
event, January 31st at Selkirk Shores State Park.
FACEBOOK! FIND US! LIKE US! Follow current trail conditions, work day/event announcements, and view photos.
We also assist many out of town snowmobilers with area accommodation and restaurant information.
SLOW DOWN, BE SAFE and ENJOY our beautiful 95 miles of trail system in New York State.
www.pulaski-boylstonsnow.com
TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * FAX: (888) 317-2441 *
Identification # 31-215-850-08920
Raffle License # 15328
Sponsored by
ONONDAGA COUNTY SNOWMOBILE ASSOC. INC. In support of N.Y.S. SNOWMOBILE TRAILS
NYS Arctic Cat Dealers
NYS Polaris Dealers
NYS Ski-Doo Dealers
2016 ARCTIC CAT or
ZR 4000 LXR SLED
2016 Polaris
or
Indy 550 144 ES SLED
2016 Skidoo
MXZ Sport 600 SLED
or $5,000 Cash courtesy of NYSSA - www.nysnowmobiler.com
WINNER’S CHOICE!
The 1st Prize Winner will select one of the four prizes above; 2nd will choose
next; 3rd will choose next; and the 4th prize winner gets the remaining prize.
5th Prize: 2-day Snowmobile Rental for 2 & $100 GC to Melody Lodge - Village Motorsports, Speculator, NY
6th Prize: $1,000 Cash donated by Fisk Distributing, Lyndonville, NY
7th Prize: $1,000 Cash donated by the Snowmobile Clubs of Chautauqua County, NY
9 Two 8-hour Sled Rentals - Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Services
23 $250 Cash - Northern Erie Sno-Seekers
10 $500 Cash - Columbia County Sno-drifters
24 2 nights Lodging & Hot Breakfast - Tailwater Lodge
11 $500 Cash - Onondaga County Snowmobile Assn
25 Gift Certificate for Overnight Stay - 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel
12 1-night stay for 2, Honeymoon Suite & Breakfast - Inn at The Beeches
13 $400 Cash - Seven Valley Snow Goers Inc
14 2-night stay, Jacuzzi Suite, off peak - The Edge Hotel
26 $200 Gift Certificate - Arctic Adventures
27 $200 Gift Certificate - Bibbens Sales & Service
15 $300 Cash - Erie County Federation of Snowmobile Clubs
28 1 Weekday Nite Lodging & Golf & Cart for 2 - Byrncliff
Resort
16 The Ride Lite Classic Combo 2 pack - Quad County Snowmobile Club
29 $200 toward Automotive Collision Repair - Carubba Collision
17 $250 Gift Certificate - Delaware Sport Center
30 2-night stay at Charlie's Inn & Dinner for 2 -Charlie's Inn
18 $250 Gift Certificate - Milton Cat
31 $200 Gift Certificate - DDS Motorsports
19 $250 Cash - Delaware Valley Ridge Riders
32 $200 Gift Certificate toward Polaris Helmet - Edelmann Sales
20 $250 Cash - Rock Tavern Sno Riders
33 $200 Gift Certificate - Hamburg Honda
21 $250 Cash - Shawangunk Snowmobile & Rescue Club
34 $200 toward Dental Procedures - Hartnett Dental
22 $250 Cash - Snowrats Snowmobile Club
35 $200 Gift Certificate - Quaker Boy Inc.
36 $200 Cash - Cattaraugus County Director, NYSSA
37 $200 Cash - Cattaraugus County Federation
38 $200 Cash - Cranberry Lake Moun-
taineers
Contact your
local Club
for tickets!
Drawing: April 30, 2016. Winners announced at the SLEDNY
Educational Forum, Lake Placid Conference Center,
Lake Placid, NY
Donation: $5.00 per ticket - Ticket holders do not need to be
TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * FAX: (888) 317-2441 *
New Business Members !!
Online Driver Ed..
3918 Lyell Rd, Rochester NY 14606
(585) 247-5218
www.brodner.com
Just $22
264 NH Route 106
Gilmanton, NH 03237
603-267-7840
www.prinoth.com
Join us!
4818 Route 430
Bemus Point, NY
14712
716-386-1171
Business Membership is just
$100
Application Here!
TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * FAX: (888) 317-2441 *
Planning Ahead?
The Pink Ribbon Riders 2016 New York Snow Run
February 19-20, 2016 ~ Old Forge, NY
http://www.pinkribbonriders.com/wp/snow-run-tour-usa
Safety Question:
Q: What is the best
way to dress for
colder weather?
Answer: B
A) Wear wool everything
B) Layer your clothing
C) Wear a scuba diver’s wet suit for underwear
Note: we don’t make these questions up - they’re right out of the Safety Program workbook!
Safety Courses are listed at
http://www.nysparks.com/recreation/snowmobiles/safety-courses.aspx
-- find one in a County near you!
TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * FAX: (888) 317-2441 *
Check out the local lodging available too, and many more discounts!

Byrncliff

Old Forge Camping Resort

Charlie’s Inn

Rocky Acres Inn

Country Inn & Suites

Tumble Inn

Junction Campground

Water’s Edge Inn
Available all year long at:
http://www.nysnowmobiler.com/memberdiscounts
TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * FAX: (888) 317-2441 *
It’s TIME to RENEW
your
CLUB MEMBERSHIP!
How to Renew Online and Print your Voucher
1. Go to www.nysnowmobiler.com and click on the Big Green Button at the upper left.
2. Enter your Member ID and password.

Don’t know your Member ID? Use the “Forgot” link:

Don’t know your Password? Use the “Reset Password” button.
3. Once you are logged in, you may renew your membership with your existing Club, or join a different club, or join several clubs. Be sure to select the “Individual” or “Family” membership
type as appropriate.
4. Fill in your credit card info and press PAY NOW!
5. Once the transaction is completed, return to the home page. To the right of the Club Name is
the word ‘Voucher’. Click on that to view and print your Voucher.
Still need assistance? Email us at membership@nysnowmobiler.com, or call the Membership Help
Desk at 888-624-3849 x 103.
Turn the page to learn how to register your sled(s) online
with the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles! -->
TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * FAX: (888) 317-2441 *
How to register your sled(s) online with
the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles
1. Let’s get you to the right place:
If you are a New York State Resident, go to this website:
https://transact.dmv.ny.gov/RegistrationRenew/index.cfm
If you are Out of State, go to this website:
https://transact.dmv.ny.gov/SnowmobileOutofState/
2. Follow the on-screen instructions (they are different for NY Residents and Out of State, so we
can’t reproduce them here).
3. Remember to enter your 12-digit NYSSA Voucher ID (located above the barcode on your
2015-16 Voucher) with no dashes or spaces.
XX-XXXX-XXXXXX
4. Print your Temporary Registration - your permanent registration and stickers for your sled
will be mailed to you by NYS DMV within ten days.
You are now…
READY
TO
RIDE!
TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * FAX: (888) 317-2441 *
As the unified voice for NY Snowmobiling, NYSSA works year-round to promote
the sport and protect the trails needed for winter enjoyment. NYSSA is recognized
and accepted in Albany, across the state, and nationally as the organization that
represents the rights and needs of New York’s snowmobilers.
Season 2015-16 NY Snowmobiler Publication Dates:
NEW YORK STATE
S N O W M OB I L E A S S O C I A T I O N
(11 days after each BOD Meeting).
April 13, 2016
December 16, 2015
May 12, 2016
January 21, 2016
February 18, 2016
AD RATES
March 16, 2016
PO Box 1040, Pine Bush, NY 12566-1040
888-624-3849 / Fax 888-317-2441
E-mail: nyssaoffice@nysnowmobiler.com
NYSSA Calendar of Events
December 5, 2015
NYSSA Board of Directors Meeting
Committees meet at 10 am. Board meeting at 1 pm.
The Rusty Rail, 3231 Seneca
Turnpike, Canastota, NY
January 9, 2016
Byrncliff, 2357 Humphrey Road,
Varysburg, NY
January 10, 2016
Take a Friend Snowmobiling Event
Location TBD (Western NY)
February 6, 2016
The Beeches, 7900 Turin Road,
Rome, NY
March 5, 2016
Tailwater Lodge, 52 Pulaski St
Altmar, NY
April 2, 2016
1000 Islands Harbor Hotel,
200 Riverside Drive, Clayton NY
April 29, 30,
and May 1, 2016
SLEDNY Educational Forum and
NYSSA Annual Meeting
Lake Placid Conference Center
Main Street, Lake Placid, NY
May 21, 2016
Location TBD
Club Events are listed on our website: www.nysnowmobiler.com
Safety Courses are listed at
http://www.nysparks.com/recreation/snowmobiles/safety-courses.aspx

NYSSA Online Magazine - New York State Snowmobile Association

Transcription

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