Snowmobilers should be aware of new trespassing laws

Despite the freezing cold temperatures sweeping across Saskatchewan, the perfect amount of snow has arrived for snowmobilers.

But Leah Switzer, the executive director of the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association, says riders should be aware of new trespassing laws that have kicked in to begin 2022 before they head out on the more than 10,700 kilometres of groomed snowmobile trails across the province.

“Mostly you need to know that when you’re on the trail system, we’ve received all those permissions for you,” Switzer told guest host Gerald Bauman on Wednesday’s Brent Loucks Show.

“Our clubs go to all those landowners and seek permission for the trails that are on their property. If you were to leave the trail, we don’t necessarily have permission for the entire section.”

Certain landowners have made it clear they want snowmobilers to stay on the trails that they’ve been given, according to Switzer. If a snowmobiler wants to use other private property areas, they will need to be given the green light first.

“Be very aware where you are,” Switzer said. “Stay on the trail. If you want to leave the trail, you will need permission from the landowner.”

Switzer says verbal permission will be needed from both parties to allow the use of land. Landowners can also put up a sign on their property granting permission.

Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic began, a large number of snowmobilers have wanted to do as much riding as possible.

Switzer says demand has slowed down now compared to last year, and by a substantial amount.

“Honestly, it is like any of the other industries,” she said. “Getting the snowmobiles into the dealerships is almost impossible. They’ve got a very limited supply and demand was very high last year.”

Despite the shorter supply for snowmobiles as of late, groups and families still are expected to take in the winter activity.

There are shelters alongside groomed trails all over the province. Switzer warned people to stay safe and distance themselves when coming to warm up for a short period.

“You need to follow with current restrictions right now,” she said. “Wear your mask indoors (and) sanitize as often as you can.

“Don’t have huge gatherings. If you come along and you’re in a shelter for a while and other people show up, maybe wrap up and move on so those people can warm up in the shelter as well.”