Madawaska Valley residents and seasonal residents, snowmobilers, ATVers, cross country skiers, hikers, joggers, hunters, fishermen and anyone else who enjoys the fantastic trail system we have in our community — The Clubs and Trails need your assistance.
The recent wet snowstorms have caused havoc on the trails and much work is needed to get them into shape. The Arbor Vitae Team of three people recently cleared 3.7 kms west of Carson Lake and it took twelve man hours. This gives you an idea of how bad things are. The Opeongo Snowbirds Snowmobile Club maintains over 100 kms of trail all done by a very few volunteers, yet the trails are used by thousands of individuals. A few small groups will be out again today and this week, but many hands make lighter work. If you have a few hours to spare (either now or in the future), need some great exercise, want fresh air, and use the trails or just have a strong sense of community involvement, please contact Joe Wills, Club President, Opeongo Snowbirds at josephpwills@gmail.com 905.464.0881.
Volunteers remove debris and dangerous overhanging branches
Contrary to popular belief, this work does not require a lot of equipment. Although each team should have one chainsaw, 90 percent of the work requires no equipment. Just warm clothing, good work mitts and some energy. A 2-foot pruner or even hand pruner would be helpful. However, with the cool conditions, the face slapping branches up to 1/2 inch diameter snap easily with your hands and just get tossed off the trail.
Ontario Federal of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) District 6 Governor Cheryl Reid told The Current that the effect on the Valley is much greater than just a few trails for recreational use. Reid said,
There’s an economic impact from closed trails. Snowmobilers come here for great snow and scenery that they can’t get elsewhere in the province – and they bring their wallets with them. Local accommodators, gas stations, shops and restaurants all rely on their business, so we do our part to get the trails opened as early as possible.
If you can’t spare the time but do have some cash, Opeongo Snowbirds long-time volunteer Randy Dunlop said the Club can hire a skidder plus crew for $1,000 a day – so cash helps too.
To offer assistance of any kind please contact Joe Wills, Opeongo Snowbirds Club President by email: josephpwills@gmail.com or by telephone: 905.464.0881
Photos courtesy Opeongo Snowbirds Snowmobile Club