Two pictures were posted on Facebook showing what looked to be snowmobile tracks on a local lagoon. The Melfort and District Trail Riders are encouraging riders to remain off lagoons, and stay on the trails. (Facebook/Michael Dwayne Cole)

By Mat Barrett

Snowmobile Season

Melfort and District Trail Riders open trails, encourage safety

Dec 14, 2020 | 3:58 PM

Snowmobiling season is here in northeast Saskatchewan.

Snow came early, however the warm stretch to end November and begin December did affect snow levels a bit.

The Melfort and District Trail Riders have opened their trails for the season and are encouraging use of the 250 kilometres’ worth of groomed trails that connect with Nipawin’s, St. Brieux’s, and Naicam’s trails.

President of the trail riders, Doug Armstrong hopes people stick to the trails, and not venture off. His warning comes after pictures were posted Facebook of snowmobile tracks on a lagoon north of Melfort. Armstrong said ice can be a risky venture no matter what. He said it’s not only for safety, but legality as well.

“Realistically, with the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Act, the only place you can legally ride anymore is on marked trails,” Armstrong told northeastNOW.

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Armstrong added to be aware of where you are riding in general.

“Don’t go exploring where you shouldn’t be,” he said. “If you see a sign that says ‘No Trespassing’, please stay off it, because it affects our ability to put trails in places. Land owners are very important to the trail system.”

With the COVID-19 pandemic, snowmobiling is an activity that can be done safely, and Armstrong said sales and interest in snowmobiles have risen in recent months. He said for those interested in using the trails and being involved with the trail riders should remember to register and plate their machines.

“Not only for liability issues, but a portion of what the licence plates cost, goes toward funding all of the clubs in the province,” Armstrong said. “And that’s the only way we exist.”

The Melfort and District Trail Riders can be found on Facebook.

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mat.barrett@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @matbarrett6