BOISE, Idaho — Damage to trees, fences and gates is pushing the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) to collaborate with snowmobilers on keeping the recreation open.
“Accidental or careless activities such as running over young trees emerging out of the snow can stunt tree growth,” said Todd Wernex, IDL Recreation Program Manager. “Trees provide product for the forest industry and help fund Idaho’s public schools.”
When snowmobilers register their Over Snow Vehicle, one dollar from each OSV tag now goes to IDL to provide snowmobile opportunities and to repair impacts directly related to snowmobile use on Idaho land.
IDL is partnering with Idaho parks and Recreation, counties and private landowners to maintain this access.
“The OSV fund allows us to build kiosks, purchase snow poles for grooming, and assist with brush clearing on trails," Wernex added. "We are also developing maps and signs to guide snowmobilers away from vulnerable areas.”
According to IDL, snowmobilers are being urged to:
Use groomed snowmobile trails.
If you see the tips of young trees sticking out of the snow, avoid the area.
Stay out of tree farms or areas where it is hard to avoid running over trees or treetops.
On rangelands be aware of fences that may or may not be taken down.
Volunteer to assist ranchers with taking down and putting up fences.
Report problems so IDL can address them quickly.
Call the IDL Supervisory Area where you plan to recreate and find out if there are any newly forested areas you should avoid.
This effort by IDL, private timber companies and Boundary County is to empower snowmobilers and other recreationists with the information needed to make informed decisions.
Educating the public about responsible OSV use allows IDL to avoid unintended damage to the valuable trees.
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