01-03-2007, 10:10 PM
The lack of snow throughout Minnesota continues to hinder riding opportunities on the state's more than 20,000 miles of snowmobile trails. Although trails typically open in early December, snow depth determines whether or not a trail is ready for riding.
A minimum of 12 inches of adequate snow cover is necessary for packing and grooming trails, according to Les Ollila, Northeast Region Trails and Waterways manager for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
"The lack of snow is a safety concern," Ollila explained. "We understand that people are anxious to get out, but there just isn't enough snow on the ground for grooming and riding. We don't want people risking their safety, the safety of others, or cause damage to their machines or the trail."
Even once the first significant snow falls, Ollila encourages snowmobilers to wait until the trails are groomed.
In addition to adequate snow cover, the ground needs to be frozen, allowing for safe trail crossings through wet areas or over lakes. Although there have been a few cold days, the ice on many lakes throughout the state is still not thick enough to support people on foot, let alone a snowmobile. The DNR recommends five inches of new, clear ice for snowmobiles.
Ollila suggested that trail users call the local trail club or chamber of commerce before leaving town. State trails conditions are also available on the DNR Web site at www.dnr.state.mn.us, or by calling
(651) 296-6157 or 1-888-MINNDNR (646-6367).
A minimum of 12 inches of adequate snow cover is necessary for packing and grooming trails, according to Les Ollila, Northeast Region Trails and Waterways manager for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
"The lack of snow is a safety concern," Ollila explained. "We understand that people are anxious to get out, but there just isn't enough snow on the ground for grooming and riding. We don't want people risking their safety, the safety of others, or cause damage to their machines or the trail."
Even once the first significant snow falls, Ollila encourages snowmobilers to wait until the trails are groomed.
In addition to adequate snow cover, the ground needs to be frozen, allowing for safe trail crossings through wet areas or over lakes. Although there have been a few cold days, the ice on many lakes throughout the state is still not thick enough to support people on foot, let alone a snowmobile. The DNR recommends five inches of new, clear ice for snowmobiles.
Ollila suggested that trail users call the local trail club or chamber of commerce before leaving town. State trails conditions are also available on the DNR Web site at www.dnr.state.mn.us, or by calling
(651) 296-6157 or 1-888-MINNDNR (646-6367).