Start your engines — the trails are open

By David Widmann/The Sudbury Star

Sunday, January 19, 2003 - 11:00

Local News - The long-awaited first weekend of snowmobiling is here.

After a slow, low-snow start to the winter, recent weather conditions have been welcomed by snowmobilers.

Richard Riach, president of the Sudbury Trail Plan Association (STP), said trails identified earlier this week should be fully groomed by the end of the weekend.

“Some trails to the south, particularly those on logging roads, may be groomed this weekend in addition to those previously announced,” he said.

“Ice conditions on the lakes are still being checked and the clubs are hoping to have all but the main lakes — Wanapitae, Penage, and Fairbanks — staked by the end of the weekend provided conditions are appropriate. The other lakes will be reviewed for staking possibly as soon as next weekend.”

Riach also reminded riders that significant snowfall is still needed before trails closer to town are safe.

“People riding the trails need to exercise care and reduce speed to prevent damage to their machine and perhaps personal injury,” he said.

Police and STOP officers are also beginning patrols of the trails this weekend. People trespassing, illegally using ATVs or other motorized vehicles, or riding without permits on their snowmobiles will face fines of

up to $205.

“They must also carry their license, proof of insurance, and their ownership for their machine as they may be requested to produce it at police spot checks,” Riach said.