Over the summer I had the opportunity to visit the Minnesota State Fair which is one of the most successful, longest running and best attended fairs of its kind.
I stopped by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) booth at the State Fair and found that they were handing out trail maps to the various snowmobile riding areas in Minnesota.
The maps also contained a Snowmobiler's Code of Ethics. Though it contains some pretty basic, common sense information it also contains good reminders for all riders. So I thought I would share it with our readers:
Snowmobiler’s Code of Ethics
1) I will be a good sports enthusiast. I recognize that people judge all snowmobile owners by my actions. I will use my influence with other snowmobile owners to promote fair conduct.
2) I will not litter on trails or camping areas. I will not pollute lakes or streams.
3) I will not damage living trees, shrubs, or other natural features. I will go out only when there is sufficient snow so that I will not damage the land.
4) I will respect other people’s property and rights.
5) I will lend a helping hand when I see someone in distress.
6) I will make myself and my vehicle available to assist search and rescue parties.
7) I will not interfere with or harass hikers, skiers, snowshoers, ice anglers, or other winter sports enthusiasts. I will respect their rights to enjoy our recreation facilities.
8) I will know and obey all federal, state/provincial and local rules regulating the operation of snowmobiles in the areas where I use my vehicle. I will inform officials when using public land.
9) I will not harass wildlife. I will avoid areas posted for the protection or feeding of wildlife.
10) I will stay on marked trails or marked roads open to snowmobiles. I will not snowmobile where prohibited.
