10 Ways to Tread Lightly with a Snowmobile

Special to

The Vindicator

With winter just around the corner, more than 1.5 million registered snowmobiles will emerge from hibernation in the United States. In response, the nonprofit Tread Lightly! organization is reminding riders to minimize their environmental impact on public land this winter.

“In most cases snowmobiling can be done without causing any lasting environmental damage,” said Lori McCullough, executive director of Tread Lightly!. “But riders must follow a few simple principles to have a fun and responsible ride.”

Tread Lightly! has released ten practical tips for responsible riding:

1. Ride only in designated areas where snowmobiling is permitted.

2. Avoid areas with inadequate snow cover, where young trees and plants are visible.

3. Stay on trails wherever possible. Snowmobiling on groomed trails causes no harm to the soil beneath the snow.

4. To minimize harmful emissions, keep your engine in tune and use only recommended and certified fuels, lubricants, and additives.

5. Protect the soundscape by avoiding unnecessary noise created by your vehicle and not overstaying your welcome in high traffic areas.

6. Dispose of all sanitary waste properly by burying it in the snow or packing it out.

7. Use a fire pan to minimize impact if you build a fire. Properly dispose of ash and fire debris by packing it out.

8. Be respectful of wildlife’s wintering habitats.

9. Remember, designated Wilderness areas are reserved for the most primitive outdoor adventure. Motorized and mechanized vehicles are not allowed.

10. Pack out what you pack in. Don’t litter or bury trash.

Tread Lightly! is a nonprofit organization offering a variety of tools to help arm recreationists and the industries that serve them with essential outdoor ethics.

Additional information about responsible snowmobiling can be found at www.treadlightly.org.