Online

* Forum 2009 * 4-in-1 Shows * Member Discounts * And More! * 

New York 

March, 2009 Volume III Issue III 

SNOWMOBILER 

Online 

Goodbye to a GREAT SEASON! 

Rode Report: Albany to the Adirondacks ~ p.2 

The Official Publication of the New York State Snowmobile Association 

Photo by Dan Coffman

NYSSA Online Magazine 

Rode Report: Albany to the Adirondacks—it Can be Done! 

By Gerry Lenseth—Frontier Snow Riders Club Administrator/BOD 

A long-time idea came together in last minute planning for six Frontier Sno Riders club members over the Martin Luther 

King holiday weekend in January. Joel Vadney and his sons, Ryan 12 and Tyler 14, started at my home in East Berne, 

NY with my brother Ken and I. We joined Head Trail Boss Brian Buchardt two miles into our trip. The plan – to head 

north to Oxbow Lake near Speculator, overnight at Joel’s camp and return the next day via a different route. 

Sunday morning we headed north-northwest from the beginning of C7B at the East Berne Mobil Mart at 10:30 am. Just 

twenty miles into our ride we encountered signs for “hot chocolate ahead” and stopped to patronize Frontier trail stewards 

Matt and Christian Church – a welcomed surprise. Continuing on C7B past Duanesburg into the Featherstonehaugh 

Forest we encountered a DEC checkpoint (not so welcomed – but all was legal). On past Mariaville Motorsports 

through the Stanley Turnpike into the Florida Clubs trail system where the trails become wide open rolling farmland with 

great vistas (my personal riding favorite). 

As we descended into the Mohawk Valley, C7B crosses C7P 

(the rails to trails path along the Mohawk) and continued over 

Lock 12 at Fort Hunter. North of the river, trail signage was not 

the best but Joel and I had traveled this section in the past, so 

we made our way to the end of C7B where it meets C7D approximately 

sixty miles from East Berne. At this point, my 

brother headed back home and we continued west on C7D to 

the junction of C7G. There we proceeded north on C7G (again 

with limited signage) into Meco and stopped for fuel and a quick 

bite at Stewarts on Rt 29A around 4 pm. 

From this point north, with almost a complete lack of trail signs 

we traveled to Pecks Lake, Caroga Lake and Canada Lake 

where we picked up C8 north to Oxbow Lake and arrived at 8pm 

and enjoyed a well earned hot meal at the Oxbow Inn. After dinner, 

it was a short ride up the lake to Joel’s camp where we 

found it warm and comfortable as his parents had just left for 

home from a weekend of trail riding in the area (thanks Mr. & 

Mrs. V.). A total of 140 miles for the day. 

Monday morning we fueled up five sleds at Casey’s Corner in 

Oxbow and headed south on C8 where we stopped to play in 

the powder on Spy Lake then onto the Powley Rd. where we 

picked up C8A. Yielding to the local groomer, Brian recognized 

the operator as a co-worker, so we stopped to swap grooming 

stories and took a close look at the drag. Then continued on Riders cross Lock 15 in Fort Plain. Photo provided. 

past Pleasant Lake and Rockwood where we picked up C8E 

down to C7D into the Mohawk Valley. 

Heading west we rode through open farmland passing by one-horsepower buggies and crossed the river at Lock 15 into 

Fort Plain and the junction of C7P. Following C7P east, we stopped in Canajoharie for fuel and food at the bowling alley 

(yes, the bowling alley) and then back onto C7P, up and around the town and back down to the river, chasing traffic adjacent 

to the NYS Thruway to the junction of C7B. Here we turned south and traveled back into Frontier Sno-Riders 

country. A total of 160 miles for the day. 

For all the thousands of miles Joel and I have driven over the years throughout New York, Canada and the Rockies – 

this trip has always been the one so close to home but seemed so difficult to pull off. The January snow conditions were 

ideal to make this happen. Never say never – Albany to the Adirondacks and back – it can be done! ■ 

Tell us your stories! 

Submit stories and photos to nyssa@anneodell.com for consideration. 

Contact NYSSA: PO Box 612, Long Lake, NY 12847-0612 * EMAIL - NYSSAOffice@frontiernet.net March, 2009 - Page 2 

TOLL FREE: (888) 624-3849 * PHONE: (518) 624-3849 * FAX: (518) 624-2441 * www.nysnowmobiler.com

Volume 3, Issue III 

March, 2009 

March 2009 BOD Meeting Notes 

and Attendance Now on the Web 

At the March Board of Directors meeting, the Board agreed that the meeting 

notes and attendance will be posted on the NYSSA Website under the “Members 

Only” menu, beginning with this issue. These items will be available on March 

18. For login instructions, see page 11. 

NEW YORK STATE SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION 

New York Snowmobiler Online 

Anne O’Dell, Editor 

nyssa@anneodell.com 

President’s Minute 

by Mike Fischer, NYSSA President MDFischer@chittenangopolarbears.com 

NYSSA Vice President Gary Broderick (left) and President Mike 

Fischer on the trails near Speculator. Mike is trying to remove his 

cell phone implant from his ear (but it isn’t working). 

Photo by Carl Hoover. 

Inside this issue: 

Albany to the Adirondacks 2 

Super Raffle Prize List & Order Form 4 - 7 

Annual Meeting & Forum—Last Chance! 9 

Not Just for Juniors 16 

How about that Weather—Ed Klim 17 

News from OPRHP 18 

The 2009 NYSSA Forum 

and Annual Meeting is exactly 

one month away, and it 

is shaping up to be a fantastic 

way to close out the season - 

and start the next. It seems 

like just a few days ago that 

we met in Niagara Falls for 

the 2008 Forum, and thanks 

to the wonderfully successful 

snowmobile season we have 

enjoyed, time truly does fly 

when we're having fun! 

The Forum this year will include 

a few new features: 

Friday's Pre-Forum Educational 

Sessions, the Awards 

Luncheon on Saturday, live 

entertainment on Saturday 

(Continued on page 8) 

2009 SUPER RAFFLE TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE ! 

Prize list on pages 4 - 6!Ticket & Poster Order form on page 7! 

ARE YOU IN TO WIN ONE OF 62 PRIZES ? 

In Every Issue: 

President’s Message ~ p. 3 

Executive Director Report ~ p.12 

Trail Coordinator Report ~ p. 13 

Charities of Choice ~ p. 19 

NYSSA Member Discounts ~ p. 20-24 

On Our Cover: 

Tug Hill ~ photo by Dan Coffman


Sponsored by the Onondaga County Snowmobile Association, Inc. In support of NYS Snowmobile Trails 

Prize 

Sponsor 

1st Prize Choice of 3 Snowmobiles—Arctic Cat 570, 

BRP/Ski-Doo 500SS Trail, Polaris 550 Shift 

NYS Arctic Cat Dealers ~ NYS Ski-Doo Dealers ~ 

NYS Polaris Dealers 

2nd Prize Choice of 2 Snowmobiles NYS Arctic Cat Dealers ~ NYS Ski-Doo Dealers ~ 


3rd Prize Remaining Snowmobile NYS Arctic Cat Dealers ~ NYS Ski-Doo Dealers ~ 


4th Prize 

Yellowstone Vacations Package—3 nights, 2 day 

package for 2 & $1000 NYSSA Airfare/Expense $ 

www.yellowstonevacations.com 

& NYSSA 

5th Prize Triton Trailer XT-101 Fisk Distributing, Lyndonville, NY 

6th 

7th 

2 Nights Lodging for 2 (Sun-Wed) & 

$500 NYSSA Cash 

2 7-day Trail Permits, 3 Nights Lodging, 

& $100 NYSSA Cash 

Northern Outdoors, The Forks, Maine 

& NYSSA 

Town of Webb Publicity Department, 

Northwoods Inn & Resort, & NYSSA 

8th $500 Cash Allegany County Federation 

9th $500 Cash Herkimer County Snowmobile Trail & Trade Assn. 

10th 2 Weeknights’ Lodging for 2 


11th 

12th 

13th 

14th 

15th 

2 Nights’ Stay 


2 Nights Lodging, Jacuzzi Suite 


2 Weeknights’ Lodging 


2 Nights Lodging, 


2 Nights’ Stay 


16th Mon—Thur Lodging for 2 

& $100 Cash 

17th 2 Nights’ Stay (Sun—Thur) Exp 4/09 


18th 1 Night Lodging w/Dinner & Movie for 2 


Charlie’s Inn, Lake Clear, NY 

& NYSSA 

Cherry Creek Inn Bed & Breakfast, Cherry Creek, NY 

& NYSSA 

The Edge Hotel, Lyons Falls, NY 

& NYSSA 

Headwaters Motor Lodge, Boonville, NY 

& NYSSA 

Herkimer Motel & Suites, Herkimer, NY 

& NYSSA 

Maple Springs Lakeside Inn, Maple Springs, NY 

& NYSSA 

Peek’n Peak Resort & Spa 

& the SC of Chautauqua County, Clymer, NY 

The Spruces Bed & Breakfast, Montague, NY 

& NYSSA 

Knights Inn of Little Falls, NY 

& NYSSA 

19th $300 Gift Certificate Bobnick Tractor & Snowmobile Parts, 

Richfield Springs, NY 

20th 2 Week Nights Lodging w/Breakfast for 2 


21st 2 Week Nights Lodging for 2 


The Norrigewock III, Beaver River, NY 

& NYSSA 

Timberview Lodge 

& NYSSA 




Prize List, continued 

Prize 

Sponsor 

22nd $250 CASH Arkell Motors, Newburgh, NY 

23rd 1 Nights’ Lodging for 2 

& $100 Cash 

Adirondack Hotel, Long Lake, NY 

& NYSSA 

24th $250 CASH Wayne County Snowmobile Federation 

25th $250 CASH Wayne County Snowmobile Federation 

26th Woody’s Traction Kit & Gear Bag Woody’s International Engineering & Manufacturing 

27th $200 CASH Penn Mountain Snow Riders 

28th $200 CASH Southern Tier Snowmobile Association 

29th Oil & Filter Value Marland Outdoors, Cazenovia, NY 

30th $150 Gas Card Fastrac Markets, LLC (www.fastracmarkets.com) 

31st Communication Safety System for 2 Sleds Impact Global Industries, Inc. 

32nd Sled Buddy Sled Buddy (www.sledbuddy.com 

33rd $125 Gift Certificate Bob Weaver Motorsports, Tonawanda, NY 

34th $125 CASH Onondaga County Snowmobile Association 

35th 2 Lift Tickets Snow Ridge, Turin, NY 

36th $100 Gift Card Arctic Adventures, Rosendale, NY 

37th $100 Gift Certificate Bowen’s Power Sports, Ilion, NY 

38th $100 CASH Caledonia Trail Blazers Snowmobile Club 

39th $100 CASH Cattaraugus County Director George Couell 

40th $100 Gift Certificate Cattaraugus County Federation 

41st $100 CASH Cayuga County Snowmobile Association 

42nd $100 Gift Certificate Chenango Import Motors, Utica, NY 

43rd $100 Gift Certificate Cycle Shack, Rome, NY 




Prize List, continued 

Prize 

Sponsor 

44th $100 Gift Certificate D&D Racing, Lowville, NY 

45th $100 Gift Certificate DDS Motor Sports, Utica, NY 

46th $100 CASH Erie County Federation of Snowmobile Clubs 

47th $100 Gift Certificate Forest Preserve Users Snowmobile Club 

48th $100 Gas Card Genesee & Orleans County Snowmobile Association 

49th $100 Gift Certificate Hudon’s Sled Salvage, Barneveld, NY 

50th $100 CASH Madison County Association of Snowmobile Clubs 

51st $100 Gift Certificate Marcellus Sales, Earlville, NY 

52nd $100 Gift Certificate Marcellus Sales, Earlville, NY 

53rd $100 CASH Oneida County Area Snowmobile Association 

54th $100 CASH Oswego County Snowmobile Association 

55th $100 Gift Certificate Sports Unlimited, Utica, NY 

56th $100 Gift Certificate SSR Powersports, Binghamton, NY 

57th 4 Rooms of Carpet Cleaning Stanley Steemer of Buffalo, Rochester & Syracuse 

58th $100 Gift Certificate Sun & Snow Recreation, New York Mills, NY 

59th $100 Gift Certificate The Trailer Connection, Richmondville, NY 

60th $100 Gift Certificate Bibbens Sales Inc., Weedsport, NY 

61st $100 CASH Washington County Association of Snowmobile Clubs 

62nd $100 CASH Wyoming County Federation Association 

Thank you Raffle Sponsors! 

Our Raffle Sponsors will enjoy the benefit of having their business listed 

on the NYSSA Website until next years’ tickets are printed. 

Would you like to be a sponsor for next years’ raffle? Please contact the NYSSA Office. 




2009 SUPER RAFFLE 

Sponsored by: Onondaga County Snowmobile Association 

NYSSA Club Name: 

Contact Name: 

Contact Number: 

Shipping Address: 

*No PO Boxes* 

Ticket & Poster Order Form 

This form is for **CLUBS ONLY** 

Individuals must obtain tickets from clubs 

______________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________ 

Tickets: ________ (Specify Quantity—minimum order 100) 

Posters: ________ (Specify Quantity) 

This year we have 62 great prizes including 3 sleds, 1 trailer, 

snowmobile vacation trips, merchandise, gift certificates, and of course cash. 

Send completed “SUPER RAFFLE TICKET” order form to: 

Fax: 518-624-2441 (NYSSA Office) 

Or 

E-Mail: Gumby403@aol.com 

Richard Rozzi - NYSSA Fund Raising Chairman 

Member Onondaga County Snowmobile Association 

Or 

By regular mail to: 

NYSSA 

PO Box 612 

Long Lake, NY 12847-0612 




(Continued from page 3) 

evening and special guest appearances sprinkled around the best offering of informational and educational sessions yet. 

The "Game of Logging" chainsaw program is set for Friday afternoon and will include a combination of classroom and 

field work. NYSSA is also offering computer and club accounting classes for these special Friday sessions. 

Saturday Evening, The Blueprints Band from Morrisville, NY 

(and featuring Oscar Crandall of the Moonlight Riders 

Snowmobile Club) will entertain us after the banquet. This 

event is sponsored (after a bit of arm twisting) by the Madison 

County Association of Snowmobile Clubs, and the member 

clubs of the county (the South Shore Trailblazers, Moonlight 

Riders, Tri-Valley Riders, SHASTA, CNY Snow Travelers, Chittenango 

Polar Bears and the Snow Valley Riders). Thanks to 

those clubs, we can enjoy Blueprints and spend the evening 

sharing stories of the best snowmobile season in NY in years. 

Friday night's welcome reception at the Forum will again include 

entertainment by the DJ "Fast Eddie". I am certain he 

will get everyone in the mood for a fun weekend with lots of 

work and a lot of fun. One tip: I wouldn't suggest shooting 

pool with him - just a hunch. 

The NYSSA Safety Trailer will be part of the Forum’s Expo, 

along with many snowmobile product vendors. 

The Events and Promotions Committee, led by Debbie Perkins, has done a fantastic job of putting together this event. 

The deadline for registration is March 30 - don't miss out. 

Speaking of time flying by, the first eleven months of my service as your President have disappeared into the past. 

While this year has been full of challenges, I believe that snowmobiling in New York State is stronger than ever. Thanks 

to the Club Volunteers who create our world-class trail system, the Club, District and Board of Director leadership who 

make it all work, our business partners, our elected officials, and all of the snowmobilers in New York, we are poised to 

take NY snowmobiling to the next step. A few highlights of the year: 

· Governmental Affairs. Our success in reaching out to the legislature and to Governor Paterson after the sweep 

of $1 million from our trail fund can only be credited to the power of our united voices that sent our message to Albany. 

I was pleased to be able to serve as your representative. The support you give to the NYSSA PAC is invaluable. 

· Trails Funding. NYSSA worked very closely with OPRHP this year to provide input and recommendations on 

how to distribute the $5.35 million in local grants. Thanks to our collaboration, the fund program was modified to provide 

a balance between the needs of clubs in high snow areas, and clubs with more secondary trails and fewer miles of 

seasonal road trails. 

· Public Relations and Communications. NYSSA has continually moved to increase our PR presence at the 

state-wide level, and provide more assistance to local districts and clubs in how best to deal with local media- and provide 

key message points. With the Online Magazine, we have drastically improved direct communication from NYSSA's 

leadership to every snowmobiler in the state. We have much more work ahead to shift the image of snowmobiling, but 

we have come a long way. 






· Safety. We have all worked 

hard to get the safety message out to 

the public. This year's snowmobiling 

fatalities are half of last year's, even 

with greater numbers of registered 

sleds, more club members, and more 

open trail days- thanks to the excellent 

snowfall season. So despite the 

fact that more miles were ridden by 

NY snowmobilers, the safety record is 

greatly improved. We must continue 

to work to reduce injuries and fatalities 

on the trails. 

· NYSSA Organization. 

One of the first actions I took as your 

President was to expand the Executive 

Committee by including regional 

representatives. This action served 

NYSSA’s Regions 

several purposes: opening up the 

committee to include more voices and better representation from all over the state, and to help develop NYSSA's 

leaders to be able to better step into executive roles. The expansion of the committee, and the organization of the 

state into five regions, helped NYSSA to reach out to local snowmobilers by holding regional forums and board meetings 

around the state. This organization may also provide a better means to streamline NYSSA's operations in face of 

increased challenges. 

During the NYSSA Annual Meeting on Sunday, April 19, NYSSA delegates will be asked to consider a number of bylaws 

changes and resolutions. As always, it is important that we work together in the best interests of our sport, and 

that NYSSA provide the responsible advocacy and effective leadership that we have all come to demand. 

In closing, I want to thank every one of you for your love of the sport, the tremendous support you have shown me 

and the NYSSA leadership this year. NYSSA is an amazing organization- combining a grassroots focus with dedicated 

leaders and a professional and committed staff. I am very proud to have served as your president this year. ■ 

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NYSSA Annual Meeting & Forum 2009 

Last chance to register!! Submitted by Debbie Perkins, Chair 

An exciting Annual Forum & Meeting is being planned for April 17-19, 2009, held at the Holiday Inn, Liverpool. 

Reservations will be taken until March 30th only. No registrations at the door. 

Many new seminars have been planned, more vendors, grooming equipment and much more. 

It’s a great time to meet up with fellow snowmobilers and share information. 

Friday 

Friday’s seminars include Grooming Excellence, an off-site chain saw course, basic computing, accounting, and 

Microsoft office. 

Saturday 

Saturday’s program includes new seminars this year: 

 

 

 

Club Roundtable: an interactive session which will bring best practice ideas from clubs. 

Volunteerism: we all gained a lot of members from SRRA, now you need to find ways to get them to help on trails, 

attend meetings. This is the session for you. Interactive session. 

Getting the Message out: PR/Website & Club Newsletter: Learn how to promote your club, what information should 

be on your website and newsletters…a must for every club. 

Trail Condition Reports: work with the NYSSA Trails 

Committee in developing a trail reporting system that’s the 

same throughout the state. Helpful for clubs with websites 

or phone lines that report trail conditions. 

OPRHP Presents: OPRHP (“Parks”) will have a session 

devoted to the trail program. This overview of the program 

will be beneficial to all snowmobilers and club s and 

will also review current Snowmobile Law. 

4-1 manufacturers show 

Sun March 29 Buffalo Convention Center 4-9 pm 

Sat April 4 Syracuse OnCenter 4-9 pm 

NYSSA has been invited to attend these 2 shows by the 

four snowmobile manufacturers and no other vendors 

will be allowed. These are the only 2 remaining shows 

in New York for the 2010 snowmobile models. 

Photo of Polaris’ new “Rush” by Dan Coffman, Rome NY. 

Returning to the seminar roster are: NYSSA Budget, 

NYSSA PAC reports, 501c3 Charities, Effective Meetings & 

Roberts Rules of Order, Trails Signage, Legal & Insurance, 

STEP Program Report, On-line Membership (designed for 

the Club Administrator), Automated Work Logs, and GPS 

training. 

The Grooming Seminar has been enhanced this year. Now 

called Grooming Excellence, it will encompass 5 key areas 

to help clubs review their program and work towards the 

next level of grooming excellence. 

We’ll have an awards luncheon from 12-2 on Saturday with 

some special guests. 

At the banquet Saturday evening, we have more special 

guests and the drawing of the OCSA /NYSSA Super Raffle. 




(FORUM, continued from page 10) 

Sunday 

Sunday the Annual Meeting begins promptly @ 9:00 am. Please note: if you are a delegate and are not personally present 

for roll call, you will not be allowed to vote as a delegate. 

To help support our Charities of Choice (Pink Ribbon Riders, Easter Seals & USO/Support our Troops), we will be having 

a 50/50 drawing and also a Silent Auction. We are asking each club to bring an item which represents your area to 

be used in this auction. Your club donations to these charities can be sent to the NYSSA office. As in past years we’re 

asking donation of $100 per club. Please mark your charity of choice on your check. 

Looking Good! 

As we will be having several honored 

guests, and there is always the possibility 

of television and newspaper 

coverage of such a large event, we 

are asking that everyone who attends 

dress in business casual attire 

- golf shirts, button down shirts, 

khaki pants etc. We ask that no t- 

shirts, or sweatshirts be worn, and 

no hats be worn during the luncheon 

and dinner. 

Be sure to get your registration in before March 30th, and remember your voting delegates are 1 for every 30 members 

of your club that you have submitted to the NYSSA office. 

We look forward to seeing you in Liverpool for this year’s Forum. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact the 

NYSSA office. 

Holiday Inn Liverpool (I-90, exit 37) 

441 Electronics Parkway 

Hats Off..! 

Liverpool, NY 13088 

1-877-863-4780 or 315-457-1122 

To all our 

Landowners 

NYSSA wishes to thank Dan Coffman of Rome, 

New York for his generosity in letting us use his 

gorgeous photos throughout the New York 

Snowmobiler Online Magazine. One of Dan’s 

photos appears on the cover. Thanks Dan! 

THANK YOU 

for your 

Support! 




For Members Only: 

Online Content — Create a Login today! 

The NYSSA Website now once again includes a message board. However it is no longer available for public view; 

it is now limited to only our membership. To login, you must create an account at www.nyssnowassoc.org (aka 

www.nysnowmobiler.com) using your 6-digit NYSSA Membership ID # (located on your membership card, or on 

your voucher). After you login, a members-only member will appear on the right of the screen. 

Other members-only info 

includes: 

 

 

 

 

Forum Handouts 

Bylaws and Policies 

Trail Programs 

And much more! 

Member 

Menu 

Here 

Create an account here 

Sam’s 

Club 

Discount 

See page 22! 




Executive Director Report 

by Jim Jennings, Executive Director jimjennings@nyssnowassoc.org 

Hand Signals 

Over the years I’ve had many informal conversations regarding the use of hand signals and how effective they are. Recently 

while riding a trail in an open area that traversed a side hill with fairly sharp turn to the left with good visibility, we 

encountered snowmobiles coming down the hill needing to make a sharp right turn. The leader was compelled to signal 

us by taking his left hand off the handlebars and letting us know there were two other sleds in his party. I was concerned 

this rider was going to lose control because he had only one hand on the handlebar while trying to make the sharp turn 

going downhill. How many times have you encountered a group of snowmobilers and the last one in that group gave the 

signal of being the last snowmobile when in fact there was another group right behind them. To me, the raised left hand 

with the closed fist only means that snowmobiler is only the last snowmobiler in that particular group, and perhaps gives 

other snowmobilers a false sense of security. To notify the riders behind us we are taught to raise our left hand (you 

know: the hand that controls the brake) to slow down. 

In my opinion when you are riding keep to the right, assume there will always be oncoming traffic, slow down and leave 

plenty of distance between you and the snowmobile in front of you. The only signal that I tend to use is raising my right 

arm (if I feel it is safe to take my hand off the handlebar) to warn either the oncoming traffic or whoever is behind me to 

be cautious. 

NYSSA Budget 

Soon copies of the proposed 2009-2010 NYSSA budget will be sent to the clubs. As of the March meeting the proposed 

budget was going to be a deficit budget (with no bailout from Washington in sight). I believe this is the first time in history 

the NYSSA Board is proposing a budget that spends more 

than it takes in. Currently there is a surplus, therefore this 

deficit can be absorbed, but it really isn’t a pattern the Board 

wishes to repeat. 

AWARDS TIME!! 

NYSSA 

SNOWMOBILER 

OF THE YEAR 

2008-09 

The Awards Committee has extended the 

deadline to send in Award Nominations until 

March 20. Applications are available on the 

website (members-only section). Send your 

nominations to the NYSSA address below. 

New York State Snowmobile Association 

PO Box 612 

Long Lake NY 12847-0612 

T 888-624-3849 

F 518-624-2441 

jimjennings@nyssnowassoc.org 

Prior to the proposed budget, I suggested to the Ways and 

Means Committee that the Executive Director’s hours be reduced 

from 40 hours/week to 24 hours/week with the hourly 

pay remaining the same as in 2008-2009. The committee has 

accepted this proposal-therefore effective April 1st the Executive 

Director will be paid for 24 hours/week. The NYSSA Office 

will still be staffed full time between myself and one of the 

two part time Office Administrators. A further major expense 

NYSSA incurs every month is reimbursing Directors their 

travel, and providing lunch at the BOD meeting. Before SRRA 

became reality with club memberships not where they should 

be this was probably a good idea-now clubs with increased 

membership should easily be able to afford to help offset the 

costs of their Directors’ attendance at the monthly NYSSA 

meetings. 

Another option being discussed, albeit informally, is an increase 

in NYSSA dues. I’ve been involved with NYSSA since 

1997. The dues then were $5. A lot has changed; we have a 

full time office staff, a first-class lobbying firm working for 

snowmobilers in Albany and a very dedicated Trails Coordinator 

working diligently to make certain our trails are first 

class. 





Trail Coordinator Report 

by Dave Perkins, NYSSA Trail Coordinator jenval@roadrunner.com 

Clubs and Trails 

Should there be anything of greater importance 

to a snowmobile club than its trails? 

Once permission is granted by a landowner 

to a snowmobile club to route a trail across the property, 

the club accepts liability associated with snowmobiling 

on that trail. The statewide snowmobile 

program, with all its laws and regulations, is administered 

by NYS OPRHP. Clubs obtain funding for 

their trails through a cooperative effort with a local 

sponsor, generally a department within the county 

government. There are administrative guidelines for 

trail signage and a safety program for trail grooming. 

That’s the nuts and bolts of what clubs have 

to do, but what about the individual snowmobiler? 

What seems to have happened over the years is that 

more and more the responsibility for safe snowmobiling 

is falling on the shoulders of the club. 

It is pretty safe to understand that clubs cannot 

control where snowmobilers go and what snowmobilers 

do any more than DOT can with roads, except 

that when autos go off the road they usually 

don’t go far. 

But there is a pretty significant difference that all snowmobilers must understand. 

Second Adirondack Park 

Snowmobile Trail Conference 

to be held in Long Lake 

This event was held last year as a means 

of providing information from DEC, TNC, DOT, 

and Parks to snowmobile club and municipal representatives 

about snowmobile trails. The Conference 

is scheduled for Saturday, April 4th 

from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PMat the Adirondack Hotel 

in Long Lake. This is a different venue from 

last year. 

DOT, The Nature Conservancy and both 

Regions 5 and 6 of DEC have been invited to 

participate. 

Clubs located within the Adirondack Park 

will be sent all necessary information on the Conference. 

It is open to all snowmobilers and municipalities 

that have an interest in snowmobiling 

in the Adirondacks. 

Snowmobile trails follow the natural landscape. Clubs cannot control the route of the trail as it exists on 

public and private lands controlled by landowners. The trail bends, twists, turns, widens and narrows according to 

what nature has provided in the landscape. 

It is up to the snowmobiler to safely navigate this terrain on their snowmobile. That is where the responsibility 

for safe snowmobiling has to be. 

According to Article 25.23 of Parks law, “Negligence in the use or operation of a snowmobile shall be attributable 

to the owner.” In addition, this Article states: 

It is recognized that snowmobiling is a voluntary activity that may be hazardous. 

This section of the law also states the operator is: 

e) To familiarize themselves with signage and trail markers before operating. 

And, 

(i) Not to willfully remove, deface, alter or otherwise damage signage, warning devices 

or implements, or other safety devices. 

Bottom line, the individual snowmobiler is responsible for his or her own safety while on the trail. 






View a larger version of this map at at http://nysparks.state.ny.us/snow/gen_info.asp 

Rick Engasser will conduct a Grooming Excellence program and will lend his expertise in developing club 

grooming guidelines with additional information on grooming equipment, asset management, cost management and 

benchmarking. 

High Snow 

NYS OPRHP has released their high snow map by posting it on their website. “High Snow” means an area 

receives over 110 inches per year on average for 30 years (white areas on the map above). Research is looking at the 

current data for determining high snow funding as to its completeness in information. There are places in NYS that 

believe they may be entitled to high snow funding but do not have supportive data for their area. ■ 

Last Chance! 

One of the last safety courses of the 2008-09 season will be: 

Friday, March 20, 2009 & Saturday, March 21, 2009 

Howard Fire Hall, Howard, NY (Steuben County) 

youth course; must attend Mar. 20 & 21; must pre-register - call Bob Clark (607)776-2261 




Did you Know? 

The primary 

cause of Snowmobile 

accidents 

in the 2007-2008 

season in New 

York was not alcohol, 

but UNSAFE SPEED? 

Source: 2007-2008 Snowmobile Accident 

Summary, NYS OPRHP Website: 

http://nysparks.state.ny.us/snow/docs/ 

SnowmobileAccidentSummary.pdf 

NYSSA members-only 

info is on the Web…! 

To gain access to members-only info 

such as award nomination forms, 

scholarship info, our By-laws, etc., go 

to http://www.nysnowmobiler.com/ and 

click on ‘create an account’ (at the bottom 

of the left-side menu). You will 

need your 6-digit NYSSA ID number for 

this, to verify that you are a current 

member. 

Safety Question 

Why are you 

required by law 

to wear a helmet 

while snowmobiling? 

(a) warmth and protection 

(b) It looks good 

(c) Because motorcyclists 

have to wear a helmet, 

too 

Answer on page 17 




“How about that weather!?!” - When it Snows, People Go Snowmobiling 

By Ed Klim (eklim@aol.com ), International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association 

It’s been cold and, yes, this has been a great winter snowmobiling season for most of us. 

The snow in most of North America fell early and allowed many trails and riding areas to be open 

the first week in December 2008. The snow stayed through most of the winter with a few expected 

meltdowns, but generally speaking the snowmobiling conditions have been excellent. I just received 

a note from my friend in Sweden and he reports the snow cover and snowmobiling season 

in Scandinavia is fantastic and people are enjoying the winter snowmobiling in Northern Europe. 

The economy is certainly challenging, but most of the dealerships have been busy selling 

new and used snowmobiles as well as possibly record numbers of parts, garments and accessories. 

Much to the surprise of some folks, this has been the second cold, snow-covered winter for 

most of North America. They call it a local weather phenomenon. According to the National Climate 

Data Center, 2008 has been America’s coldest year since 1977. The Northern hemisphere 

snow cover extent in December 2008 was 16.95 million square miles. This was 0.17 million 

square miles ABOVE the 1966 through 2008 December average! 

I have received numerous reports of record snowfalls and record low temperatures across 

North America and it leads me to believe the 10 year cycle of colder, snowier winters is just now 

beginning. My belief is supported by numerous scientists such as the Imperial College of London 

Astrophysicist and Forecaster Piers Corbyn, who reports that official data in every year since 1998 

shows world temperatures have been colder.. 

Living in the Great Lakes region, I am heartened by the fact that, the Great Lakes – which is 

the largest body of fresh water in the world – are experiencing rising water levels. Last year, Lake 

Superior rose 17 inches – and still rising! This summer Lake Superior will be at a level above the 

historical level, according to the Federal Great Lakes environmental Research Laboratory in Michigan. 

Virtually all of the Great Lakes are increasing in levels. A key indicator of global health is the 

level of the Great Lakes – so our earth seems to be continuing its cyclical behavior. 

Winter enthusiasts from around the world are showing their interest in snowmobiling.. 

Those non-snowmobilers, as we know, have a very high desire to go snowmobiling and in fact 

“they are going snowmobiling.” Visits to our Go Snowmobiling web sites have increased over 50% 

this year and more than 40% of the new visitors are non-snowmobilers who are gathering information 

so they can have their first snowmobiling experience. 

The Take a Friend Snowmobiling Campaign, supported by virtually all of the state and provincial 

associations has proven to be very successful and has helped attract non-snowmobilers 

onto the snow with us and expanded our family of friends and organized snowmobiling members. 

Final counts on the number of individuals who have visited the Go Snowmobiling web site 

will be tabulated in April 2009, but you can be rest assured the numbers will be encouraging to all 

of us. 

Yes, it’s been a great wintery, snow-filled season and we look forward to the last few weeks 

of spring riding. ■ 

Safety Question Answer: ( a ) 




News from NYS OPRHP 

DMV Uniform Ticket for Parks and Navigation Law Violations 

Contributed by Stephen P. Lewis 

Director of Snowmobiling 

518 - 474 - 0446 

The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) Commissioner Order signed July 30, 

2008 authorizes the use of the DMV Uniform Ticket for all appropriate Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation 

Law (PRHPL) and Navigation Law violations. As a result of this order, OPRHP will no longer print, and law enforcement 

agencies will not be obligated to use, the separate and duplicative OPRHP Uniform Ticket. 

The DMV Uniform Ticket is equivalent to and satisfies the requirements of the uniform appearance 

ticket/simplified information form required for traffic infractions and violations of the PRHPL, Navigation Law, articles 

47 and 48 of the Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL), and local laws, ordinances and regulations. 

Cross-Border Snowmobile Trails Designation 

According to PRHPL § 25.04 and VTL §2222(12), a cross-border trail is a snowmobile trail which proceeds 

along a New York State border and which, occasionally as dictated by terrain, crosses into another state. Once a 

trail has been designated as a cross-border trail, snowmobiles owned by nonresidents may proceed on the crossborder 

trail without a New York State registration. 

The OPRHP Commissioner Order signed August 5, 2008 designates the following trail as a New York- 

Vermont cross-border trail: 

The cross- border trail starts in Salem, New York on Snowmobile Corridor Trail C9 and extends north into Rupert, 

Vermont. Trail C9 then enters back into New York from Pawlet, Vermont at Trail Junction WS17C in the Town of 

Granville and continues through the Village of Granville. Route marker signs will direct snowmobilers to continue 

north on Trails C9 or S42 or S42A depending upon trail conditions. Trails S42 and S42A re-connect with Trail C9 at 

Trail Junction WS44. Trail C9 then travels north to connect with Trail C4 at Trail Junction WS13C. Trail C4 then reenters 

Vermont heading towards Poultney. These trails are delineated on the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic 

Preservation’s Map entitled “Washington County Snowmobile Trails” that is updated annually and available 

from the Agency. 

Copies of the Commissioner’s Orders referenced above may be viewed on the OPRHP website at 

http://nysparks.state.ny.us/snow/gen_info.asp ■ 

NYSSA Member Discounts 

By Gary Broderick, NYSSA Vice President 

We have more than doubled the sponsors in the NYSSA Membership 

Discount Program this year, largely thanks to the efforts of Cathy Light 

(Blue Line By Design) working in Old Forge and the surrounding areas. 

These discounts are only available to NYSSA Members. These Discounters 

and Sponsors have helped us to turn the Membership Card Program 

into a profitable venture this and last year. 

Using this program not only saves you, the NYSSA Member, money, but 

allows us to attract new discounters and more sponsors to the program! 




NYSSA CHARITIES PAGE 

NYSSA encourages its individual members and its Clubs to support 

the following charitable organizations: 

Pink Ribbon Riders www.pinkribbonriders.com 

The Pink Ribbon Riders mission is to promote awareness of breast can- 

Easter Seals www.easterseals.com 

Easter Seals has been helping individuals with disabilities and special 

needs, and their families, live better lives for over 85 years. 

The USO 

www.uso.org/howtohelp 

The USO is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to 

support the troops by providing morale, welfare and recreationtype 

services to our men and women in uniform. 

Lafayette Trailriders 1st Annual “Climb for the Cure” at Toggenburg Mountain Winter Sport Center 

The Lafayette Trailriders have experienced 

consistent success co-hosting 

hill climbs at Toggenburg Mountain. 

In the past year, members of Club and 

their affiliates have had experience 

with breast cancer diagnoses in loved 

ones. The idea was formed to name 

the last hill climb of the season the 

“Climb for the Cure” with all proceeds 

going to the Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancer Research 

Foundation. 

The first annual “Climb for the Cure” will take place on 

Saturday March 28th, 2009 (rain date Saturday April 4th). 

This hill climb will have the same format as usual with 

addition of the “trail improved” class. If you are not familiar with 

the races at Toggenburg you can search www.youtube.com by 

typing in Toggenburg Hillclimb to see a clip of our Feb 22, 2009 

race. 

• Entry Fee will be $20.00 per class 

• Admission to the grounds will be $5.00 for racers and 

spectators – children under 10 are free 

• Pit passes will also be available for $10.00 

• Registration is from 9 am until 12 noon 

• Optional $25.00 fee for Stock, Improved, and Modified 

King of the Hill (KOH) 

• Racers meeting at 12:30 – Racing starts at 1 pm 

• Please arrive on-time with sleds ready to race 

• Outdoor BBQ and bar (weather permitting) 

• The band “Aiken Heart” will be playing in the 

Foggy Goggle from 5-9 pm 

Please contact Jerry Rice at jrice@deruyterlake.com, Tim 

Rosenberg at tmrsnbrg@aol.com, or visit www.skitog.com for 

more information. 









NYSSA MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNTS 

Use the instructions below to receive discounts from the companies listed below 

Exclusive for members of NYSSA-You can save up to 30% a year on snowmobile 

insurance with a special offer from Nationwide. Whether you have a 

perfect driving record, or a lapse in coverage, Nationwide is on your side. For 

more information call 1-866-447-SNOW (7669) or click http:// 

nwagent.nationwide.com/agentwebpages/OfficePage.asp? 

Allstate offers extensive discounts - up to 40%. Such as Good Rider Discount, 

Multiple Vehicle Discount, Transfer Discount, Multiple Policy Discount and 

Safety Course Discount. Stop by and receive a quote from your local agent today. 

http://www.allstate.com/orv-snowmobile-insurance/main.aspx 

NYSSA members save 15% off at over 5,000 participating Choice hotels worldwide! 

Call 800.258.2847-mention NYSSA ID# 00803214 or go to choicehotels.com 

and enter the NYSSA ID # 00803214 to book online. Discount subject 

to availability at participating hotels and is not for use in conjunction with any 

other discount, offer or promotional rate. Advance reservations are required. 

Save up to 15% on your rental car needs-call 1-800-654-2200 (members only 

hotline) or www.hertz.com to reserve. Use code ‘CDP#1708788’ when reserving. 

SnowTrails TV is a touring and destination TV show on PBS. 

SnowTrails TV is offering NYSSA members-buy 2 DVDs from any season and 

get the third one free to complete the 10 show season series. Visit 

www.snowtrailstv.com for ordering/program information. 

Impact Global Industries the maker of the C.S.S. (Communication Safety System), 

a LED light system used to replace the unsafe outdated hand-signals, is exclusively 

offering 10% off to NYSSA members. Discount orders must be placed 

by phone at 508-865-9144. www.impactglobalindustries.com. 

AmerLink offers 25% off the purchase of a log home to NYSSA members, plus a 

$10 full color planning guide/free construction DVD. For 25 years we’ve been 

crafting dream homes that nurture, inspire and rejuvenate. To get inspired, visit us 

at www.amerlink.com to order a planning guide and to see over 70 custom home 

designs we offer or call us toll free at 877-216-5647. 

Exclusive discounts for NYSSA members. With new service activations you are 

eligible for free or deeply discounted equipment (phones/BlackBerrys/PDAs), 

waived activation fees ($35 per line), and a contract based on a 1 year term instead 

of 2 years. Please call 866-464-8662 (option 3) and mention NYSSA and 

promo code (6619TMOFAV). For questions please contact eric.sarafin@tmobile.com 

or call 516-707-1758. 

Sled Insure offers NYSSA members an additional 5% discount on their snowmobile 

insurance premium! Other discounts also available, such as Multiple 

Sled Discounts and Safety Course Discounts. We can write your coverage the 

same day and fax or email your NYS Insurance ID Cards immediately! Call 

us at 1-800-562-6036 or visit us at www.SledInsure.com.



NYSSA Members: Book any two consecutive nights lodging for the winter season 

at the Big Moose Inn and Restaurant and receive a third contiguous night free. 

You will also receive a discount card good for 10% off through April 2009 on all 

meals, drinks, gift shop items and any future stay. Cannot be used for any other 

promotional pricing or package deals. Free night limited to Sunday-Thursday. Excludes 

New Year's Eve and the Sunday before Martin Luther King's birthday. Must 

be booked by telephone: 888-924-4666: The Big Moose Inn and Restaurant 

(http://www.BigMooseInn.com)1510 Big Moose Road, Eagle Bay, N.Y. 13331 

NYSSA WINTER SPECIAL: Use this 10% OFF COUPON FOR ROOM, 

FOOD OR DRINKS. Stay at this lake front resort and conference center and receive 

10% off everything! (NYSSA Membership Number and Promotional Code 

NYSSA0809 required) Book one of our Jacuzzi suites—or call and ask about other 

Room Discounts or seasonal rentals. North Woods Inn Resort, 4920 NYS CRT 

28, Fourth Lake, Old Forge, NY 13420 (www.NorthWoodsInnResort.com) Call 

for reservations: 315-369-6777 

(Clip and Use this coupon!) 

Blue Line By Design, a marketing firm in Old Forge, offers its $1000 Discount 

Coupon Book ($20 Retail Value) FREE to NYSSA Members who purchase 

a Trail Permit in Old Forge or Inlet when snowmobiling the Central Adirondacks! 

To see what is offered in the book, visit www.a1000thanks.com! 

Coupons for lodging, restaurants, entertainment, and services are available in 

the book, which is good through May 15th. Questions? Call Catherine Light, 

Blue Line By Design, www.bluelinebydesign.com (315) 868-8436 

NYSSA members save 20% on overnight lodging Sun-Thurs (excluding holidays), 

December through April at The Loft in Raquette Lake, in the Central 

Adirondack Region. Fireplace-sauna-heated garage for sled storage & repair. 

No permit required for Raquette Lake/Long Lake/Indian Lake/Newcomb/ 

Tupper trails. For description/rates/photos visit 

http://www.raquettelakerentals.com 

Water’s Edge Inn: SAVE 20% OFF ANY ROOM OR SUITE SUNDAY – 

THURSDAY NIGHTS! Rest assured at Water’s Edge Inn, located lakeside directly 

across from Water Safari, Snowmobile Trails 1&5 and Enchanted Premium 

Gas! (NYSSA Membership Number/Card required for discount, not to be combined 

with any other offer/discount, limit 1 offer per reservation, excludes holiday/event 

weeks) Water’s Edge Inn, 3188 St. Rte. 28, Old Forge, NY 13420. Call 

for Reservations (315) 369-2484. www.WatersEdgeInn.com 

Old Forge Camping Resort: STAY 2 NIGHTS, GET THE 3RD NIGHT 

FREE! Offer good weekdays and weekends. Drive your sled right to your door! 

Direct access to Snowmobile Trail 5 and Premium Gas. (NYSSA Membership 

Number/Card required for discount, not to be combined with any other offer or 

discount, limit one offer per reservation, must be used for 3 consecutive nights) 

Old Forge Camping Resort, 3347 State Route 28, Old Forge, NY 13420. For Reservations: 

1-800-CAMPING. www.OldForgeCamping.com 

Makovic Homes offers a free Stainless Steel Appliance Package Upgrade to 

any NYSSA Member purchasing a Modular or Manufactured Home from 

Makovic homes. Must provide proof of current membership. Visit our Model 

Center at 411 State Rt 17B, Monticello, NY 12701 or call us at 845-796-4663.




The Rocky Acres Inn invites NYSSA Members to enjoy our facilities and receive 

$10 per night off the regular room rate ($15 off for the Floral Room). The Rocky 

Acres Inn is located on Trout Brook Rd. in Schroon Lake with easy access to trails 

taking you to local restaurants and Olmstedville/Minerva. Reservations required 

along with your NYSSA Membership Number. For more information, go to 

www.RockyAcresInn.com or call us at 518-532-9709. 

Want to advertise 

your business here 

for free? 

Become a Member of the 

NYSSA Membership Discount Program! 

For More Information, e-mail us here 

Or contact our office at 1-888-624-3849 



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. 

Contact Jim Jennings, Executive Director, at 888-624-3849 for more information. 

NEW YORK STATE SNOWMOBILE 

ASSOCIATION 

PO Box 612, Long Lake, NY 12847-0612 

888-624-3849 / Fax 518-624-2441 

E-mail: nyssaoffice@nyssnowassoc.org 

We’re On the Web! 

www.nysnowmobiler.com 

As you enjoy new York’s trails this winter, please 

consider joining the Clubs whose trails you are using. 

Your membership dollars will help pay for fuel and 

repairs to their groomer, the placement and replacement 

of signage, and many other expenses associated 

with maintaining the trails. 

NYSSA Calendar of Events 

March 30 Last day to register for NYSSA Annual Meeting & Forum (Late Registration $75) 

April 4 Adirondack Park Snowmobile Trail Conference, at the Adirondack Hotel in Long Lake. 

Apr 17-19 NYSSA Annual Meeting & Forum at the Holiday Inn, Liverpool, (I-90 exit 37) 

441 Electronics Parkway, Liverpool, NY 13088, 1-877-863-4780 or 315-457-1122. 

May 2 First NYSSA BOD Meeting of the 2009-2010 Season! 

Club Events are listed on our website. 

www.nysnowmobiler.com

Online

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