Snowmobilers preparing for the season

Long Lake, NY – The 2008-2009 winter season is off to a great start, if you ask Jim Jennings, Executive Director of the New York State Snowmobile Association (NYSSA). With the recent lake-effect snowstorms and chilly temperatures, much of upstate New York is already under snow. Despite the early snow, Jennings cautioned snowmobilers to wait until the trails are ready and open before heading out to ride.

“It is looking like it will be a great season, but riders need to be aware of when and where the trails are open before they venture out,” said Jennings.  “Here in New York, the earliest snowmobile trails can open is after the close of the big game hunting season.” In most parts of the state, trails will be open by December 20th, but according to Jennings, snowmobilers should check with the local club before riding.

Support Chenango Valley State Park Snowmobiling

What’s happening?

Your support is needed on a petition to allow snowmobiling at Chenango Valley State Park near Binghamton. We recommend everyone to sign the e-petition to support this effort.

A proposal has been made by Mr. Michael Boyle, Park Manager at Chenango Valley State Park, to invite a local snowmobile club – the BC Sno-Riders – to enhance existing trails and mark designated trails for snowmobile use within the Park to allow for slow speed use (<25MPH) during the winter months.

There is some opposition and we must show that they have strong support for this public access that will benefit many people who will enjoy the trails including snowmobilers.

Click HERE to sign the Chenango Valley State Park snowmobile petition

NOTE: After signing petition the site will ask for a donation. Just close the window and your signature will still be counted.

What’s the impact?

Because of the vast acreage (1,000+) at Chenango Valley State Park near Binghamton, NY, we are in support of Mr. Boyle’s proposal to allow snowmobiling on previously existent double-track trails and the limited development of new trails to allow ingress and egress from the Park to the NYS Snowmobile Trail System.

The development of a semi-closed loop system within the Park will provide the opportunity for new riders to enjoy a safe, moderately easy area to learn how to operate their snowmobiles as well as a launch point for experienced riders who want to venture outside the Park onto the NYS Snowmobile Trail System.

They plan to submit the petition to Mr. Dan Keefe at NYS Parks by December 31, 2008 so your signature in support of this plan would be appreciated.

BC Sno Riders website

PressConnects newspaper article link