ATHABASCA - With winter here to stay, snowmobilers are being reminded to respect private property.
Athabasca River Runners Snowmobile Association members are currently cleaning the trails and placing signs to ensure riders remain proactive when going out for a jaunt. Lynn Olson, the association’s communications and membership director, said they are hoping all of its riders respect private property, not just on farms.
“Nobody should be anywhere near where they are not supposed to be,” Olson said. “Along the rural areas, some do not seem to realized what kind of damage trespassing can do to a farmer’s livelihood, as some still had crops in the field when the snowfall came. Assuming they can still get the crops in the bin come spring time, it could increase a farmer’s yield next year.”
She added that the association is currently working with the Alberta Snowmobile Association, the Town of Athabasca and Farm Credit Canada to put up signage along.
“Farm Credit Canada has already been putting signs up for farmers who still have their crops in the field, especially if they have land close to the Athabasca Trail system,” Olson continued.
“The town has also approved a route in the community for snowmobilers to have access to fuel and food in the community. But just as a reminder, snowmobiles are still not allowed to be riding on the Muskeg Creek Trails or at the Athabasca Landing Trail starting at the SS Athabasca Car Wash.”
In Westlock, Lyle Birnie, the treasurer and past-president of the Pembina Driftriders Snowmobile Association, said the whole point of a snowmobile trail is to keep riders from trespassing on private property.
“For the most part the trail system works good, but there are still the odd renegades here and there,” Birnie said. “Quite a few farmers are also riders as well, but whether you’re a farmer or you live in town it’s always important to respect private property.”
He added all the clubs in Alberta continue to clear the trails and get them ready.
“Most start riding after the Christmas holidays,” the 30-year riding veteran said. “Usually you would need a good 10 inches of snow on the ground in order to have perfect conditions.”
Olson said that the River Runners are also waiting for the frost to set in and more snow to fall.
“We are also in the process of cleaning up our trails and getting them ready,” she continued. “As well, we currently have about two-thirds of the membership we had last year signed up already. Most of them usually sign up before Dec. 31 because as of Jan. 1, membership fees go up $10.”
She said fees are $80 on or before Dec. 31, and $90 after.
“Memberships can be purchased at Athabasca Outdoor Products, or by contacting myself at 780-689-7560,” she added. “Any rider interested can also check out our website at www.athabascariverrunners.com.”
She also said that safety is always key.
“They should always wear a helmet and any other protective gear,” Olson said. “Riders should also be aware of trail and weather conditions, and to be prepared for emergencies, particularly when they are out in the wilderness without cell phone service.”
Upcoming events for the River Runners include the Ladies Ride Jan. 25 and the annual Snowmobile Rally Feb. 22.
