Posted on 12/10/2009, 1:04 pm, by mySteinbach

The arrival of colder weather and snow signals the start of Manitoba’s winter recreation season and outdoor enthusiasts are reminded to put safety first, Conservation Minister Bill Blaikie said.
 
“Safe riding and respect for private property will help snowmobile enthusiasts enjoy the thousands of kilometres of groomed trails,” said Blaikie.  “Although the trails have yet to open and there are several areas where open water or dangerously thin ice remains in place, we need to drive home the idea that riders should be cautious when crossing any body of frozen water.”
 
This season, Snopasses are now available at more than 300 Manitoba Public Insurance agents across the province.  Snowmobilers can register their machines and buy a Snopass at the same time when they visit any Autopac agent.  Previously, snowmobile owners would require two separate transactions: one with an Autopac broker and a second with a Snopass vendor.
 
The pass, which costs $105 up to and including Dec. 15, includes a sticker that must be visible on the licence plate of the snowmobile.  Those purchasing the pass after Dec. 15 will pay $135.  A seven‑day Snopass is also available at a cost of $60.  Revenues raised from the sale of Snopasses go directly to Snowmobilers of Manitoba Inc. (Snoman) and are used to groom trails and enhance recreational snowmobiling in Manitoba.
 
The Manitoba Floodway Authority is also reminding snowmobilers to avoid the floodway this winter as construction continues on the Red River Floodway.
 
Construction activity and thin ice on the low-flow channel pose a serious risk to snowmobilers along the entire length of the floodway. Snowmobilers are advised to use alternative recreational areas and routes.
 
Manitoba has approximately 12,000 kilometres of groomed trails on Crown and private lands that are maintained by Snoman to ensure the public have a safe ride.  Weekly updates on trail conditions are available on Snoman’s website at www.snoman.mb.ca. 
 
Trails located in provincial parks have speed limit and warning signs posted along hills and curves. Prudent driving combined with the proper equipment and well-maintained snow machines will mean an enjoyable, safe riding experience. There will be an increased presence of provincial natural resource officers and the RCMP travelling the trails to ensure compliance with all legislation and safe riding practices. It is an offence to drink and drive when operating a snowmobile.
 
Effective Jan. 1, the fine for driving on a designated trail without a Snopass will increase to $448.50 from $278.
 
In addition to trails maintained by Snoman, the province grooms about 1,100 kilometres of trails within the Whiteshell, Birds Hill, Grand Beach, Hecla and Spruce Woods provincial parks.  Local clubs groom trails in Turtle Mountain, Duck Mountain, Clearwater, Paint Lake and Nopiming provincial parks.  Riders using the groomed trail network within these parks are required to purchase and possess a valid Snopass.
 
More information is available at www.snoman.mb.ca.