news – Page 2 – West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association

Mississippi Mills Council Meeting Tonight (April 18th)

On April 18, 2017 / Feature, News and Events, West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association

Tonight a Mississippi Mills town council meeting is being held, and at it a motion to ban snowmobiles in the town of Almonte will most likely be tabled. Council is divided on this important decision. As before we need to see snowmobiler representation at the meeting to continue to show council that this is important and to make the right decisions.

Utilizing the rail trail in Almonte will cost taxpayers ZERO dollars, while helping the local economy and creating a tourism trail for the businesses from Snowmobilers in the winter months. We will fill the restaurants down town with business, groom a second trail for free in Almonte for non sledders. Put up signs, help pay decking of the bridges. Make slow zones in the town, this is who we are 🙂

Some of our club’s key campaigners unable to make it tonight. It would be great to have strong support from the sledding community once again. Who can make it to show sledder support?

The A trail throught Almonte, Pakenham and Armprior is in jeopardy of being lost without this link. Urban sprawl is affecting our trails.

Thanks,
Your board of directors

When: Tuesday, April 18 at 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Where: 3131 Old Perth Rd, Almonte, ON K0A 1A0, Canada

PLEASE SHARE THIS LINK, THANK YOU

OVRT and “A” Trail Closure

On March 30, 2017 / Feature, News and Events, West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association

There have been many posts and messages about the possibility that Mississippi Mills and Carleton Place councils might not approve motorized use of the abandoned CP Rail line, known now as the OVRT (Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail) through Almonte and Carleton Place. There is always a danger that people get tired of hearing about it and start to shut it out, but we really need every individual sledder and their family and friends to spend just a few minutes to help sway council decisions. Right now.

Why? The A Trail, our main corridor through the region is rapidly losing sections to urban sprawl and developments, and there are more sections that will be closed in the near future due to development. The A Trail will depend on the OVRT and will ultimately be cut off if you, the sledders, do not act now to ensure we get access this public corridor. The only way that clubs can ensure that the A trail and similar trails remain viable is to share public corridors such as the OVRT. True multi-use trails (for all activities) work well in the other areas where they have been established, and with cooperation will work well here. More importantly if one municipality is allowed to exclude some users, others will follow.

What do I need to do? Despite the great business and social/economic case presented by BEAST and WCSTA representatives, it has become a numbers game. It seems to be coming down to who can send the most letters to the individual councils in support of their special interest. Non-motorized groups have been planning their attack long in advance, and they are way ahead of us in this regard. And, don’t be fooled, the number of letters received does sway councils. The case of the squeaky wheel gets the grease definitely holds true here.

We need you, your spouse, children and friends, sledders from across the District and the province to send letters today. Councils will hear us if we organize and speak out, as the other parties are doing. Many of you have already written letters, but we have several new places that need to receive them (see below).

If composing a letter isn’t your thing, please just copy/paste (and edit if you wish) the letter at the end of this post. Address it to the 2 emails below, and individual councillors if you like. Just add your name and hit “Send”. That’s it. Share this to every person you can think of, and follow up to make sure that they too have written. If we miss this opportunity, it will not come again.

What else? We need to show up in numbers (as the opponents will) Tuesday evening (April 4) as we present to Mississippi Mills Council. Once again, numbers count, and the recent Carleton Place meeting had many non-motorized supporters show up – that made quite an impact – with just a handful from the sledding corner. Wear your club shirt, jacket hat, or your sled colors. Make sure our club representatives (Scott Hamilton and Darin McRae) know you are behind them, and council knows how many sledders are watching the decisions they make.

Snowmobile clubs’ rail line proposal to Mississippi Mills – Tues. April 4th

Thank you.

The Letter:

Step 1: Please send at least 2 emails – 1 to each town at these addresses:

drogers@carletonplace.ca
clerk@mississippimills.ca

…and one directly to your councillor if you like

Step 2: Subject heading: “Motorized OVRT” or “Snowmobiles on OVRT”

Step 3: Add your name at the bottom of letter.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing this email in support for the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail
(OVRT) to be established as a multi-use trail, including snowmobiles in the
winter time.

I understand that the acquisition of this corridor by the County of Lanark
was originally done under the premise of a multi-use trail (including
motorized vehicles) and feel it should continue along those lines. Our tax
dollars are paying for it, so all taxpayers should be able to use this trail
for their own personal recreation.

I have been a snowmobiler for many years and can say with full confidence
that all users benefit from a groomed snowmobile trail. Snowmobile clubs
also have a great track record on multi-use trails in many areas of Ontario.

On trail snowmobiling is managed by the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile
Clubs (OFSC) which means that the sport is regulated with trail permits,
operator licenses, insurance requirements, and pre-established speed limits.
The entire system is patrolled by volunteer trail patrol members and local
police agencies making it safe for all users.

I have recently read that both Montague and Beckwith Townships have already
endorsed the OVRT to include motorized users. I would hope this would
continue along the entire corridor.

I trust that in your capacity as clerk you will share this email with your
council.

Respectfully,

[your name]

Snowmobile clubs’ rail line proposal to Mississippi Mills – Tues. April 4th

On March 28, 2017 / Club meetings, Feature, News and Events, OFSC, West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association

Your West Carleton Snowmobile Club and the B.E.A.S.T. Snowmobile club are doing a joint presentation to town council for use on the old rail line.

We need all your support. We have a great presentation to show that this will cost taxpayers ZERO dollars, while helping the local economy and creating a tourism trail for the businesses from Snowmobilers in the winter months. We will fill the restaurants down town with business, groom a second trail for free in Almonte for non sledders. Put up signs, help pay decking of the bridges. Make slow zones in the town, this is who we are 🙂

The hall holds 90 people in chambers and just outside in a seperate room with speakers.

We need to fill the parking lot with sledder on top of that. This is a chance to show our posotive support for sharing the trail. Snowmobilers are amazing stewarts of the trails for many many years.

The A trail throught Almonte, Pakenham and Armprior is in jepordy of being lost without this link. Urban sprawl is affecting our trails.

Who can make it out? Bring your family and friends!

Thanks,
Your board of directors

When: Tuesday, April 4 at 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Where: 3131 Old Perth Rd, Almonte, ON K0A 1A0, Canada

PLEASE SHARE THIS LINK, THANK YOU

Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail – Multi-use trail including snowmobiles

On February 12, 2017 / Feature, News and Events, OFSC, West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association

The Future of Rail Trails

As you may know, Lanark County purchased the rail bed within it’s boundaries from CP and are now undergoing community consultations for it’s use. While parts of the rail bed you know as the 311 are in use this season on a trial basis, the hope from the snowmobiling community it to continue to expand on this idea throughout the entire county, creating a trail that will give excellent access to towns and villages, as well as an uninterrupted thoroughfare for the entire length of the rail bed.

We believe that OFSC clubs and infrastructure offer great advantages with our volunteer base and great snowmobiling community, and want to work together with other interest groups to create a trail system that can be enjoyed by all. The revenue alone that snowmobiling brings to local businesses both directly and indirectly is huge.

The final of four meetings held through the region will be this Thursday Feb. 16th between 6 and 8pm in Almonte at Old City Hall. What we really need from our snowmobiling community is a strong show of support in numbers attending this event, and to hear the concerns so that we may all work together to have multi-use trails that will benefit all residents and people of all recreational interests.

Please look at the attached information sheet and join us next Thursday!

Snowmobiling Fact Sheet Feb 17 v3

https://www.facebook.com/events/1827264094152297/

St. Johns Emergency First Aid Course – Dec. 3

On November 7, 2016 / Feature, Media Release, News and Events, OFSC, West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association

St John Ambulance First Aid Course

Date: Dec 3 at Kinburn Community Centre 8:30 to 4:00 pm

WCSTA will offering a first aid course on Dec 3. Any of our groomer operators that are not already trained will be taking this course, and it is also a great idea for anyone who rides – especially in remote areas. This will be a one day St Johns Emergency First Aid course, geared toward snowmobilers and groomer operators.

The course will cover Emergency Scene Management, Shock, all CPRs (adult, child, infant), automated external defibrillator (AED), Severe Bleeding, Wound Care, Burns and Medical Conditions. There will be additional discussion and practice on other topics that may be relevant to snowmobilers.

Cost of the training is $109, and the Club will provide a complimentary pizza lunch.

If you would like to attend, please email contact@wcstai.com

Same Low Price, Unlimited Winter Fun!

On October 20, 2016 / Feature, Media Release, OFSC, Permits, West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association

An Update from the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs

(Barrie, ON October 20, 2016) – While there are some people who are sad to say goodbye to summer, snowmobilers in Ontario are getting revved up for the 2016-17 snowmobiling season. West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association is working hard to ensure trails are prepped for when the snow comes and by all predictions thus far, it looks like this winter will be bringing lots of cold and snow, exactly what snowmobilers everywhere have been asking for.

For the fourth year in a row, snowmobilers can take advantage of 30% savings on their 2017 Ontario Seasonal Snowmobile Permit. For the low price of $180 they can enjoy a winter full of adventure on any of the available 30,000km of trail connecting communities throughout the province. This early bird rate is only available for a limited time and prices go up at midnight EST on November 1, 2016. This year, all permit sales will take place online. “Providing consumers with enhanced security, flexibility and convenience are just a few of the benefits of buying your permit online” says Remi Sauve, President of the OFSC. “Thank you for your support of organized snowmobiling in the province and we look forward to seeing you out on the trails this winter.”

Permit Pricing

TWO MORE SLEEPS until the WCSTA Swap Meet!

On October 13, 2016 / Feature, Merchandise, News and Events, OFSC, Volunteers, West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association

WCSTA 1st Annual Snowmobile Swap Meet

Saturday Oct. 15, 10am to 3pm
Kinburn Community Centre
Admission: $2
12 and under free

Wow. For our very first year, this is shaping up to be a big event!

The WCSTA Swap Meet is going to feature a HUGE Blow-Out Sale of Ski-Doo accessories with two tractor trailers full of new gear at blow out prices. Among local and not-so-local businesses participating will be George’s Marine and Sports, March Road Motorsports, Ottawa Argo (with the new WCSTA Argo Centaur groomer), Perth PowerSports and Urban Motorsports

Tickets will be on sale for the District 1 Raffle for 2 Yamahas and trailer, as well as WCSTA swag. And, of course indoor and outdoor swap tables, trailers full of parts, and the used sled corral!

There will be a barbecue going and we will have a big screen and a projector playing sledding videos inside the Beer Lounge!

The club is also looking for volunteers to help out at the show, so please email swapmeet@wcstai.com if you can lend a hand.

We hope to see everyone there – please spread the word. This is going to be a fantastic community event!

https://www.facebook.com/events/142517329497713/

Contact: swapmeet@wcstai .com

or:
Douglas VanderVelde
phone: 613-316-6199

Adding Rail Line to West Carleton Trails!

On October 9, 2016 / Feature, Media Release, News and Events, OFSC, Volunteers, West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association

Its OFFICIAL, the West Carleton Snowmobile Club will be using two sections of the old rail line between Arnprior and Blakeney this coming sledding season! The club has been in negotiations with Lanark County and they have been finalized for a trial basis this year.

We have been working hard to make sure that all the insurance and other details were in place prior to announcing this, and now trail work can begin. Volunteers will be needed to help prepare and sign these new sections of trail (as well as existing trails).

The Beast has also been granted use of the same rail line from Carleton Place to Smiths Falls.

Details will also be available at our swap meet in Kinburn (October 15). Stay tuned for more information in the near future. Please SHARE to all SNOWMOBILERS that you know.

Your board of directors, working for you!

WCSTA Northern Corridor Adventure Tour: Feb. 26 – Mar. 3 2017

On September 13, 2016 / Feature, News and Events, OFSC, Tours, West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association

NORTHERN CORRIDOR ADVENTURE TOUR 2017

The Club has received requests for coordinated rides, including longer tours. Over the last three years the club successfully planned the RAP tour, the Gold Rush Tour, and the North Shore Loop.

As a result of the tour last year’s successful tour we are in the planning stages for a group-coordinated ride in Northern Ontario – The Northern Corridor Adventure Tour. It will be approximately a 1,116 km tour, over 4 days.

Background

The tour will depart from Cochrane Ontario in OFSC District 15 (Feb 26 – Mar 3 2017). The odyssey will cover 4 of Ontario’s Tour loops. It will explore eastern Ontario’s most northern trail system with the longest riding season.

It is approximately a 7.5-hour drive from West Carleton to the start point near Cochrane Ont. The tour will follow TOP trails, connectors, and local trails. The area is well known for its deep snow, flat land powder, and wide low traffic trails.

The Loops

Abitibi Canyon

The Abitibi Canyon Loop is one of the wildest, most remote and furthest north-reaching groomed snowmobile trails in all of Ontario, making it an incredible ride!

Every snowmobiler dreams of vast open expanses, endless snow that makes mirages out of the horizon, and trails so wide that they’re only comparable to a 400 series highway, without the traffic. This is exactly what this tour offers.

The landscape is quite different from the major populated centre’s of Ontario, offering endless hydro corridors that are uninterrupted by roads. Quite honestly, the odd stop sign is a relief and offers a moment for your riding buddies to catch up. At the top of the A103 lies Abitibi Canyon Dam, which was built in the 1930s. It offers a spectacular view of the massive Abitibi River that carves north to James Bay.

Lumberjack Loop

The Lumberjack loop takes riders through 4 communities of Moonbeam, Kapuskasing, Val Rita-Harty, and Opasatika. This loop will be ridden in two sections. One half on the trip to Hearst, and one half on the return to Cochrane. Lumberjacks are a strong symbol of the history of the area. Many worked hard in the bush to provide for their families. While traveling on this loop you may see modern logging activities of the today. This loop takes riders on various types of trails such as hydro corridors, old logging roads, tree lined trails, and provides the opportunity to see wildlife including lynx, moose, wolves, and foxes.

Missinaibi Expedition

The Historic Missinaibi River is a site that snowmobilers will not want to miss. This loop takes snowmobilers along the Missinaibi River and through the woodlands north of Mattice and Hearst Ont. The Missinaibi River was the main route from Lake Superior to the James Bay during the fur trade time. Riders are almost guaranteed to see Moose and wolf tracks in the area so keep the camera ready. Explore this historic route and ride some of the Provinces premier northern trails.

Gateway to the North

Cochrane and Smooth Rock Falls are your gateway communities to the Northern loops. This loop will be also ridden in two sections as part of the Abitibi Canyon loop, and on the return leg from Hearst. This tour will take you along breath taking hydro corridors and through scenic Greenwater Park, District 15’s newest hidden secret. Bring your camera, as you don’t want to miss the gorgeous snow covered trees on your journey.

Length

1,116 km

4 days of riding with approx. 8 hours per day. (The change for this year is the extra night stay on the Thursday in Cochrane due to a longer last day’s ride) with riders driving home on the Friday. The first day’s loop is approx 340 km. The second day will cover approx 277km, third day 165Km, and last day returning to the trucks approx 330km.

Dates – Feb 26 to March 3 2017

The trip has planned over the week to take advantage of lower hotel rates, the fact that all services are open (including repair gas etc.), and that there will less traffic on the trails.

Deposit

A $100 deposit non-refundable from each rider is required prior to the cutoff date. Deposits are required by the planning meeting Nov 19, 2016. Please provide via online transfer or cheque to Scott Hamilton, or Paul Asmis. The deposit will cover chase truck and fuel, satellite phone rental, and a custom dry fit tour T-shirt for each rider.

Planning Meeting

A planning / information meeting is scheduled for Wednesday Nov 23, 7 pm at Sammy’s Pizzeria in Dunrobin.

Reservations

Prior to making reservations please submit a tour registration form and deposit to a tour coordinator. Once the registration is accepted reservations can be made. Room reservations are the responsibility of each rider, and detailed information for each booking is provided. It is not too early to make bookings once a tour coordinator confirms your registration!!! If riders know they are interested please start making bookings after your registration is accepted. The accommodations fill up very quickly for that time of the year. Cancellation dates are listed.

If you cancel your reservation you are responsible for all fees. If any fees are not paid and must be covered by the group on tour – you will be required to pay when the group returns.

Note all bookings under group reservation – West Carleton Snowmobile Club

Schedule and Options

This year’s schedule will be slightly different from the previous years. To take advantage of the tour loops, the group will spend two nights in Cochrane. Then snowmobile to Hearst and spend two nights in Hearst. On the final day riders will return to Cochrane driving home on the Friday.

Riders will trailer to the start point at the Northern Adventure Inn in Cochrane Ont. There is plenty of parking for trailers.

There are excellent trails around Cochrane. Riders arriving early on the Sunday can take advantage of the loops around the town.

Schedule

Sunday

Arrive – Northern Adventure Inn, Cochrane Ont.

Riders Briefing –1930 hrs. In restaurant area.

Monday

Ride the Abitibi Canyon Loop returning to the Northern Adventure Inn for a second night stay.

Distance approx. 340 km

Fuel / Stops – Extreme Tours Base Camp at Fraserdale (150km) and Smooth Rock Falls (250km)

Dinner- Northern Adventure Inn

Note that access to services and support truck is not possible for most of the loop – until riders reach Smooth Rock Falls.

Tuesday

Destination is Companion Hotel Hearst Ont

Distance approx. 277 km

Option – Scenic Greenwater Provincal Park – 18km one-way detour (36km total)

Fuel Smooth Rock Falls (70km), Moonbeam (115km), Kapuskasing (150km)

Lunch- Kapuskasing (143km)

Dinner- Companion Hotel

Wednesday

Ride the Missinaibi Loop

Distance -165 km

Fuel –Hearst Ont (No Fuel on loop)

Stops / Lunch – Snacks available at Mattice ON (130km)

Dinner- Companion Hotel

Thursday

Destination –Northern Adventure Inn, Cochrane Ont

Distance -329km

Fuel – Kapuskasing (133km), Smooth Rock Falls (220km)

Stops – Tim Horton’s Kapuskasing

Dinner-Northern Adventure Inn or in Cochrane

Accommodation Information

1^st and 2nd Night Sunday Feb 26 /Monday Feb 27

Northern Adventure Inn – 517 Hwy 11 W, Cochrane ON, P0L 1C0

http://www.northadventureinn.ca/index.html

Cancellation – 48hrs

$75 single room / $95 Standard room / $115 Loft room double occupancy extra persons $10 – under West Carleton – Indoor heated sled parking $10 per night paid at time of booking

Parking: Truck and trailers – included

Trail access: Beside Inn

Food: Restaurant /Dinner –Restaurant Inn open Sunday 7am-8pm / breakfast starts 0630 Monday / Tim Horton’s 5 min away

Fuel: Close by – 5 min by trail or drive

Stores: Canadian Tire within short distance

Attractions: Polar Bear Habitat & Heritage Museum / Snowmobile Museum 1 Dury Pk Rd, Cochrane ON, 1-800-354-9948 http://www.polarbearhabitat.ca/

Sled Dealers:

Paps Power Sports – Skidoo – 135 3^rd Ave, Cochrane ON -1-705-272-3254 http://papspowershop.com/

Bourque Automobile – Polaris / Yamaha- Hwy 11 W, Cochrane 1-705-272-8959

http://www.bourqueauto.com/

Pre Departure meeting in restaurant 1930hrs

2^nd and 3^rd Night Tuesday Feb28 / Wednesday Mar 1

Companion Hotel / Motel – 930 Front St Hearst Ont P0L 1N0

1-705-362-4304 / 1-888-468-9888 http://www.companion-hotel-motel.ca/

Cancellation – by 6:00pm – Reservation cut off Feb 07

Rates –$105 plus tax for double room – under West Carleton – Indoor heated sled parking $10 per night

Trail Access: Beside Hotel

Food: Restaurant in Hotel 6am – 10pm

Tim Horton’s/ MacDonald’s / Subway / Beer store / LCBO just down street

NOTE – make arrangements for pack lunch for trail for Day 3 if desired

Fuel: 2 min from hotel –Shell / Esso

Stores: Canadian Tire

Sled Dealers:

B&B Auto sports Skidoo 807 Front St, Hearst ON 1-705-362-4400 http://www.bbauto.ca/

P &L Polaris/Yamaha 208 Hwy 11E Hearst ON 1-705-362-4287 http://www.plsales.com/index.htm

Lebel Chainsaws Arctic Cat 9 Fontaine Dr Hearst 1-705-362-4858 / 340 Government Rd Kapuskasing 1-705-335-6858 http://www.lebelchainsaw.ca/

4^th Night Thursday Mar 2

Northern Adventure Inn – (Same as above)

Food

Dinner and breakfast is available at each accommodation stop (each rider responsible for food). The group will stop on the trail for lunch. See details above

Fuel

The group will stop for fuel approximately halfway through each day. In some areas of the tour fuel stops are limited and are approximately 180km apart. Fuel is available prior to departure.

Chase Vehicle

A chase vehicle is being organized and a non-refundable deposit will cover the cost of the chase vehicle for each rider. The chase vehicle, which will be a pick up truck with a 20 ft trailer, will follow the group. It will proceed to the next nights stop, and can be contacted in case of break down. It will also be able to carry spare fuel, oil, parts, and limited amount of luggage. The fuel for the chase vehicle will be paid for from the non-refundable deposit.

As far North as this tour is, the loop parallels / follows Highway 11, this will allow for access to the chase vehicle in case of an emergency breakdown. The exceptions are day one on the Abitibi Loop when access to the chase vehicle is not possible for large portions. On the third day the Missinaibi Loop is in a remote area as well with very limited access for the chase vehicle.

Safety and Group Riding

Depending on the numbers providing the deposit, riders will be put into groups of 4-6 riders. Groups will be assigned on the Sunday evening meeting based on desired speed of travel – each group will stay together. The larger tour group will meet at lunch and at the accommodations at the end of the day.

A safety contact list will be provided to each rider in the group.

Each rider is responsible for riding safely under control, and within his or her limits. Note each riding group will wait at all critical trail junctions.

Risk

Each rider assumes responsibility for and understands the risks inherent in snowmobiling in a remote wilderness setting such as is involved in this trip. Each rider must understand that regardless of the chase vehicle, the tour will be in remote locations and emergency assistance will be a significant distance away. Each rider must be fit, capable of riding long distances, and prepared with the proper equipment for the extreme winter weather conditions expected.

Emergency Numbers

In most areas 911 via cell or hard line phone will suffice. However in the un-incorporated areas 911 services are not always available. In addition 911 services are not available via the satellite phones. The direct dial emergency numbers will work on the satellite phones if required during emergency situations.

OPP 911
OPP emergency: 1-888-310-1122
OPP North Bay Communications Emergency Direct Dial 1-705-495-7000
Cochrane and Hearst EMS Dispatch Direct Dial 1-705-264-1251
Joint Rescue Coordination Centre 8 Wing Trenton 24 hrs – 1-800-267-7270 / 613-965-3870
Cochrane Fire and EMS Emergency-911
Cochrane Fire 1-705-272-6758
Lady Minto Hospital Cochrane On, 241 8^th Street 1-705-272-7200 http://www.micsgroup.com/site_published/micsgroup/minto_about.aspx
Hospital Notre-Dame Hearst – 1405 Edward St 1-705-373-2923 http://www.ndh.on.ca/home-e.htm
Hearst Fire 1-705-373-2822 / 911

Communications

Each rider will be asked to provide a cell number. A tour text group will be created so riders can text messages, and communicate with chase vehicle.

Cell phone coverage is centered in the towns, and along the Hwy 11 corridor. Once the trail leaves those areas there will be no coverage. The hotels all have cell phone coverage and Internet access.

A satellite phone will be carried on the chase truck and in the group of riders. The satellite phone will be for emergency use only. The cost of the satellite phone is covered in the deposit amount.

T-Shirts

This year as part of the registration package each rider will be provided with a customized dry fit T-shirt with logo, tour name, and year. Please specify size to tour coordinator Scott Hamilton via email.

Selection for Participation

The tour group is initially planned for 12 -16 riders, plus chase truck driver. (Depending on demand numbers may be adjusted.) As demand is expected to exceed capacity selection for participation will be based on order the deposits are received, club participation, previous tour participation, and volunteer participation. The tour organizers reserve the right to select riders based on the requirements of the tour. If a deposit is not received by the planning meeting in November the participants name will be removed from the confirmed group.

Sled maintenance and Insurance

The group will assist each other but everyone is expected to have the basic maintenance completed on their machines, prior to departing on the tour. The machines must be in good mechanical condition capable of riding extended distance in remote areas. In addition each rider is responsible to carry all required insurance, registration, license, and valid OFSC permit.

Advertising

On the club’s web page, and Face Book page. To register for the tour please complete the registration form and submit with your deposit to either Scott Hamilton or Paul Asmis (see below). A tour coordinator will confirm registration. Please contact either of the coordinators for details.

Information

Scott Hamilton

WestCarletonPokerRun@gmail.com

Paul Asmis

pasmis@wcstai.com

Registration Form:

northern-corridor-tour-registration-1

More on the Snow – Important Changes Coming

On September 1, 2016 / Club meetings, Feature, News and Events, OFSC, West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association

Members should attend the WCSTA club meeting on Tuesday September 6th to learn about important changes coming to snowmobiling in Ontario. At this year’s OFSC AGM in September, our club has 2 votes, either in favour of or against these changes. Your understanding of these changes is very important to us and at our next WCSTA meeting on Tuesday, September 6, 2016 we will be discussing how we want our delegates to vote. If you can, please make a special effort to come to our meeting to learn more about MOTS.

Overview:

The future of our club and snowmobiling is at stake.

Our sport, the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC), OFSC District One, and WCSTAI are all under serious financial pressure to maintain trail operations while trying to life cycle the aging provincial groomer fleet. To address these issues, and others, the OFSC has developed More on the Snow (MOTS) – a 5 year strategic initiative.

To summarize, the objectives of the MOTS plan are:

Increased Participation. By increasing overall participation (through attraction and retention of riders) by 6% to 100,000 permits.
Improved Organization Effectiveness. By developing a new organizational structure, reducing the number of organizational layers from three (OFSC, District, Club) to two (OFSC and District) with local clubs becoming chapters of the District.
Developing a groomer fleet asset management program and a groomer fleet operational management program.
Become Valued Stewards and Partners. By continuing to pursue long term government support programs.

Key points of the plan to highlight:

The current groomer fleet is too large to financially sustain.
70% of the fleet is over 10 years old with more than 5000 hours.
Groomer Asset Management would allow the OFSC to take a provincial approach to life cycle management (vs the current approach of clubs managing this).
Grooming Operational Management would be shifted more so to the District to manage (vs the current approach of clubs managing this).
Reduce # of back-up groomers.
Remove artificial grooming boundaries between clubs.
OFSC bought 16 new groomers to kick start the program at a cost of $4M.
Estimate average cost of a purpose built groomer is now $300K.
High workload on a small group of volunteers is concerning.
Impending new not-for-profit legislation is concerning.
Local and provincial grants and other funding opportunities are not being utilized.
Reducing in administration costs thru Framework for change was not realized.
Standardize the size and operations between districts.
Current organizational structure causes barriers.
Need to reduce groomer fleet from 360 to 246 by purchasing 101 new groomers and removing 215. Need $4M to $6M annually to achieve plan.
Hiring of 6 regional positions to support clubs and Districts
Reduce the number of Districts from 16 to 12. This change will allow all districts to have on average 2700 Km’s of trail with 15+ clubs participating.
Districts manage all funds. Clubs only coordinate payment of minor expenses.
New District structure would see District 1 reorganized to Ottawa Region with 17 clubs (including WCSTAI) with a total of 3062 kms of trails (down from ~4000 kms)
Standardized District bylaws and operating procedures.
District 1 is targeted to go from 50 groomers to 29.

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