9299-R5_MSA_March2026_Newsletter

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Vol. 57 • No. 7 March 2026 MSA, PO Box 80 Augusta ME 04332 www.mainesnowmobileassociation.com

An Official Publication of the Maine Snowmobile Association

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☛ United we trail, divided we fail!

Destination Spotlight Riding the Wild Heart of Western Maine

Snowmobiling the Coos Canyon Region When Maine’s long winter settles across the western mountains, the Androscoggin River valley transforms into one of the most thrilling snowmobiling destinations in New England. At the center of it all lies the rugged and beautiful Coos Canyon area—where deep woods, moun tain views, and miles of groomed trails create a riding experience that keeps snowmobilers coming back year after year. For riders looking to experience the true spirit of Maine snowmobiling, Coos Canyon is more than a scenic stop. It’s a gateway to adventure. A Landscape Built for Winter Adventure Carved over thousands of years by powerful river cur rents, Coos Canyon cuts through the mountains along Route 17 between Byron and Roxbury. In summer, the canyon draws visitors for swimming and gold panning. But when winter arrives and the snow piles deep across the western Maine mountains, the region becomes a snowmobiler’s playground. Towering evergreens line the trails. The Androscoggin River winds through frozen valleys. And fresh powder blankets the rolling terrain that makes this region so fun

to ride. The combination of elevation, consistent snowfall, and dedicated trail grooming creates ideal riding conditions throughout much of the winter season. Trail ConnectionsThat Go the Distance One of the biggest draws to riding the Coos Canyon region is how well it connects to the greater Maine snow mobile trail network. From the canyon area, riders can easily access: • The InterconnectedTrail System (ITS) 82 • Routes heading north toward Rangeley’s legendary lake country • Trails linking to the Bethel and Rumford riding areas • Long-distance routes toward New Hampshire and the western mountains These connections make Coos Canyon an excellent starting point for both short scenic rides and full-day adventures. A popular loop takes riders from Byron through Roxbury, north toward Rangeley, and back through the Androscog gin valley—offering incredible mountain views along the way.

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GroomedTrails, Local Pride Behind every great ride in Maine is a hardworking net work of volunteer snowmobile clubs. In the Coos Canyon region, local clubs work tirelessly throughout the winter to maintain safe, smooth trails for riders. From grooming runs that stretch late into the night to clearing fallen trees after storms, these volunteers ensure the trails remain in top shape all season long. Their dedication keeps the western Maine trail system among the best in the Northeast. Scenic Stops Along the Way Riding through the canyon region isn’t just about cov ering miles—it’s about enjoying the scenery that makes Maine winter special. Along the trails, riders will find: • Snow-covered mountain overlooks

• Quiet forest corridors • Frozen river crossings • Warming stops in nearby towns

Gateway to Rangeley One of the biggest perks of riding this region is its prox imity to Rangeley—often considered the crown jewel of Maine snowmobiling. From Coos Canyon, it’s an easy ride north into the Rangeley Lakes region, where expansive lake crossings and panoramic mountain views await. Many snowmobil ers plan multi-day trips that begin in the canyon area and continue deep into the Rangeley trail system.

Many riders make Coos Canyon itself a photo stop. With steep rock walls and the river rushing beneath snow-cov ered ledges, it’s one of the most striking winter land scapes in the state.

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Wassookeag Snowmobile Club Hosts Vintage Ride & Show Celebrating Snowmobile History T he vintage snowmobile com munity turned out in force tinue to preserve and share the heritage of snowmobiling in Maine.

some beautifully restored and carefully maintained machines. The show quickly became a gath ering point for enthusiasts eager to swap stories, talk restoration projects, and admire the crafts manship that has kept these sleds alive for generations. For many attendees, the high light of the day was simply see ing so much snowmobile history gathered in one place. Rows of vintage sleds drew constant crowds as riders and spectators alike walked through the display, pointing out models they once owned or rode decades ago. Club members noted that the turnout was an incredible show ing for the vintage community. Events like this not only cele brate the machines themselves but also the people who con

recently as the Wassookeag Snowmobile Club hosted a suc cessful Vintage Ride and Show around the scenic shores of Was sookeag Lake. A total of 32 vintage sleds lined up for the ride, creating an unfor gettable sight as they toured the lake and surrounding trails. The machines represented decades of snowmobiling history, from early classics to well-preserved favorites that once ruled Maine’s winter trails. The sound of vin tage engines echoing across the snow was a reminder of the roots of the sport that so many riders still cherish today. In addition to the ride, sleds were on display in the show area, giving spectators a close look at

The Vintage Ride and Show served as a perfect reminder that while snowmobile technology continues to evolve, the passion for the sport’s early days remains strong. Thanks to the dedica tion of collectors, restorers, and clubs like the Wassookeag Snowmobile Club, these clas sic sleds continue to roar to life and inspire a new generation of riders. With strong participation, great conversation, and a lineup of his toric machines that drew admi ration all day long, the event proved once again that vintage snowmobiling is alive and well in Maine.

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MAINE PARK & RIDE LOCATIONS

Attention MSA Clubs if you would like to add your local Park & Ride please visit: mainesnowmobileassociation.com and fill out the form under MSA Forms.

REGION CLUB

ADDRESS

TOWN Madison

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Central Central Central Central Central Central Central Coastal Coastal Coastal Coastal Coastal Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern Coastal

Abnaki Sno-Riders

1463 Lakewood Rd

Club house parking lot

Anson-North Anson SC Lexington Hilanders SC Minnehonk Ridge Riders

18 High Street

North Anson

1654 Long Falls Dam Road

Lexington Twp1

Corner of North Rd & Bean Road Mount Vernon

Park & Ride trail connects to the Mount Vernon trail system Trail maps are posted at Park & Ride parking lot and all trail intersections.

Norridge Sportsmen Alliance 444-328 Martin Stream Road

Norridgewock

Ashley Wing Memorial Park Direct Access to Kennebec Valley Railtrail KVT

Smithfield Moonshiners SC

1232 Village Road

Smithfield

The park in ride is the paved parking lot directly in front of the ball field. Please do not block the driveway/parking area in front of the salt/sand shed. Thank you

Town and Country Trailriders 35 Clubhouse Road

Clinton Cornish

Parking lot of Town and Country Trailriders snowmobile club.

Cornish Sno-Cruisers Moonlite Sno-Skimmers

Rt #5 (Sokokis Trail) 60 Val Halla Road

About 3/4 a mile south from Rt 25, Vacant lot and Approx 7 miles North of Limerick on Rt #5

Cumberland

Rachels on the green - breakfast- lunch - dinner - large parking lot for the Val Halla Parking lot. 15 minute drive from Portland with direct access to main trail system leading to destinations west and north of Cumberland.

Norridgewock Sportsmen

444 Martin Stream Road

Norridgewock

Ashley J Wing Family Memorial Park and Ride. Direct access to the Kennebec Valley Trail (Rail bed)

Association

Westbrook Trail Blazers Westbrook Trail Blazers Westbrook Trail Blazers

429 Bridge Street

Westbrook Westbrook Westbrook

Westbrook Little League Parking lot Sunset Ridge Golf Course parking lot

771 Cumberland Street

235 Pride Street

Prides Corner Congregational Church Parking lot will be busy Sunday mornings till about noon time. EMSC is located directly in Connector Trail 107. The yard has ample parking and an unloading ramp.

Eastern Maine Snowmobilers EMSC clubhouse , 263 Levenseller Rd Holden

Ebeemee SC Ebeemee SC

US Route 11, ITS 111 Intersection Ebeemee Twp

Located just north of the road crossing on ITS 111 North (Wildwoods trail)

US Route 11

Ebeemee Twp

Located just north of the Jo Mary Trail on the left 1.5 miles north of Ebeemee Club House

East Branch Sno-Rovers & ATV 6 Clubhouse Drive

Medway

Lots of room for parking. Lunches usually served on weekends. The club has a large parking area at their clubhouse that is plowed for trailer parking. Trailers can be parked for a day or an extended period. Plenty of parking available. Trailhead is across the road, access to local club trails , ITS 83 can be picked up in Corinth , Maine.

Glenburn Lakeside Riders SC 2838 Ohio Street

Glenburn

LA Sledders Pine Tree SC Pine Tree SC

Club House, 3346 Bennoch Road Alton

Also the Rail Trail Parking lot off Bennoch Rd in Lagrange as well as Lagrange General Store

166 W Old Town Road

Old Town

309 Call Road

Milford

Quad County SC Inc. Sebasticook Valley SC

976 Lee Rd (Rt 6) 238 Moosehead Trail

Springfield

Also, 2 miles down East Shore Rd, Lakeville, ME 04487 Large Parking Lot next to ITS 105

Newport

Very Large parking lot with direct ITS 85 trail access. Located right on RT. 7 just 1 mile from I-95. Food/Gas services available in both directions. Great take off spot for day or overnight trips. Contact Sebasticook Valley SC Facebook page for the latest grooming information. From Rt. 15, head West on either Upper Shirley Rd. or Lower Shirley Rd, to the intersection. The parking lot is just West of that intersection at the junction of West Road and ITS 85 (B&A Railroad Road S.). It is located diagonal to the small town park/pavilion at Shirley Pond. Room for 4 rigs. (no overnight parking except residents of the street)

Eastern

Shirley Bog Trail Busters

B&A RR Road South

Shirley

Northern Benedicta Snow Gang Northern Big Valley Sno Club

Sherman Citgo

Sherman

Located right at the I-95 Sherman exit

1160 Crystal Road

Island Falls

Immediately off I-95 northbound exit. Located at Brooks Equipment Service . Direct access to ITS 83 Oils, parts, and services available at this site, as well as 2 gas stations located within 900’ of park and ride location (one of which has 24 hr. card service with non-ethanol gas also)

Northern Big Valley Sno Club

478 Houlton Road

Island Falls

Northern Caribou SC

10 Otter Street

Caribou

As you’re leaving Caribou on Rt.89 heading east towards Limestone Otter St. will be on your left just before you reach the underpass. Drive all the way straight in and that is where the Park n Ride will be. As you come into Stockholm off 161 turn left onto Main St. and go across the bridge. Right after the bridge on the left you’ll see a sign for a public boat landing. Turn left into there and that in the parkn ride. There is a small maintained trail that will lead you thru the ballpark up to ITS 83 or you can ride the shoulder of Main St. from the park n ride and get on ITS 83 next to Eureka Hall. This is the location of our clubhouse. The clubhouse is not open to the general public w/o notice. There is lots of room for parking, but

Northern Caribou SC

Main Street

Stockholm

Northern Chapman Ridge Runners

94 Town Hall Road

Chapman

Snowmobile & ATV Club

please not in front of our groomer barn, “The Bullpen.”

Northern Dwinal Pond 4-Seasons Club 174 Springfield Road

East Winn

Parking lot across the road from the clubhouse (If space is filled please use clubhouse circle driveway)

Northern Linneus Sno-Sports Northern Madawaska SC Northern Madawaska SC Northern Moosetown Riders Northern Portage Lake SC Northern Portage Lakers Northern Smoki Haulers SC

45 Mill Road

Lineus

19 Fournier Road 195 Dufour Road 20 Little Black Road

St. David (Madawaska) Ramp available for truckbed sleds. Please do not block garage overhead door where groomer is parked, or park in front of it. Free parking.

Madawaska

This is a private driveway located on trail ITS 81. Call 207.316.9118 for permission to park (limited space)

Allagash

Park Ride behind the Little Black Checkpoint.

Station Road

Portage Lake

This is a dirt road that connects east and west cottage road in Portage. There will be available parking on the west side of this road and will be marked with signs.

Station Road

Portage Oakfield

Parking is alongside Station Rd in downtown Portage. There is room for approximately 12 rigs.

317 Oakfield Smyrna Road

Exit 286 on I-95. Heading North: take Exit 286 and take a right off the ramp. Take the first driveway on the right - big sign board out front. The driveway snakes between two homes - our log cabin Clubhouse is located in the back. Unload and you’re off and running on ITS 83!

Northern Washburn Trail Runners SC

48 Station Road

Washburn

Western Western

Bog Hooters SC

83 South Main Street

Mechanic Falls

Fireman’s field next to the little Androscoggin River.

Fryeburg Area Snowmobile 322 McNeil Road

Fryeburg

Assoc.

Western

Fryeburg Area Snowmobile Across from 330 Bridgton Road

Fryeburg

Assoc.

Western

Fryeburg Area Snowmobile Weston’s Beach on River Street

Fryeburg

Assoc.

Western Western Western Western Western Western Western Western Western Western

Crooked River SC

661 Meadow Road Vacationland Road 219 North Main Street

Casco

Harrison Friendly Riders

Harrison Strong Norway Bridgton

Take Vacationland Rd, Follow Signs.

Narrow Gauge SC Norway Trackers SC

Look for sign at entrance, indicating parking area for Narrow Gauge Snowmobile Club Park & Ride

95 Lake Road

Located at the Lake Pennesseewassee Boat Launch/ Parking Area.

Pleasant Mountain SC (Formaly Brag Way

Parking lot is across from the Ham Athletic Fields at 40 Brag Way. 2/10 of a mile from the intersection of Brag Way and Route 302. Easy

Bridgton Easy Riders)

access to ITS 89.

Rumford Polar Bears Rumford Polar Bears Snow Valley Sno-Goers

Route 2

Rumford Rumford

Located at the top of Falls Hill at the corner of Route 2 and South Rumford Road across from Adley’s Auto Next to Sherwin Williams at the parking lot of the old bowling alley site. McDonald’s is 3 properties away

1019 Route, Rt 2

120 Just East of Andover Village Andover

Take a right at Andover Village (Rt. 120) just down over the hill on right Parking lot holds 30 plus trailers and direct access to ITS115.

Sno Wanderers

171 Main Street 1771 US Rt 201

Kingfield

The Forks Area Trail Club

The Forks PLT

FREE PARK & RIDE LOT at Northern Outdoors on Route 201. Lot is located 1/4 mile south of Northern Outdoors and marked with a sign. The lot is large, well plowed and has plenty of room for trailers. This lot opens as soon as groomers have been able to hit the trails! Ample space for whatever trailer you might be hauling. P&R is directly across from WRVSC grooming hut. Open every day. Located on the right hand side of Route 2 after entering Gilead from the west and passing the rest area or on the left side of the highway if coming in from the Bethel area. Long, thin parking lot for about 4 trucks with trailers. Kiosk and map in parking lot.

Western Western

Webb River Valley S.C.

55 Shanie Lane

Carthage

Wild River Riders

Route 2

Gilead

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From The Executive Board

From the President

clubs have been out, and folks are able to ride locally. This is great for both the club’s morale and our snowmobile registration numbers, a major income source for club and municipal grants that pay clubs to do the work they do so we can all get out and have fun. Clubs all around the state have been busy hosting events, working through landowner issues (in season) and dealing with entitled people who make the choice not to follow signs/rules/laws. If you see someone doing something obviously wrong, don’t be afraid to step up and say something. It could be one instance that causes loss of access for everyone or creates an unsafe condition on the trails. If you are reading this, that means you are a club member, thank you. I really appreciate everyone who takes the time to join at least one club, volunteer to help with an event, do trail work or something a whole lot more. It takes all those hours of volunteerism to make it so we can hop on our sled and go have a great ride for the day, weekend or longer. As I write, school vacation for Maine and Massachusetts is wrapping up and next week is New Hampshire’s school vacation. These weeks Along with the clubs being busy the MSA has had a busy few months for sure. We have had monthly Director’s Meetings which started back in August and will end this month. I would like to thank all the clubs that have hosted one of these meetings, it is nice to get out and have these meetings in the different regions as you see a lot of new faces and with it brings new conversations and discussions. Thank you to clubs that were able to host a “Showcase Ride” in their respective regions. February took us to the East Branch SnoRovers in East Millinocket where we took in the Groomer Rodeo and had a fabulous lunch along with a 100 mile ride through the Region. That evening took us to the Northern Timber Cruisers Clubhouse for another awesome meal and hosted the Director’s Meeting. Thank you to both clubs D espite the minimal snow in February, I managed to get in some great rides all over the state. From Newport to Range ley to Greenville to Benedicta to Portage to Brownville then a couple days later in east ern Aroostook County leading up to 3 days in New Brunswick at the ISC Northeast Chapter meeting. Snow levels were pretty consistent, and I noted that the entire state could have used at least another foot. Still all the clubs did an amazing job at working what they had into a very enjoyable experience for me and my riding companions. THANK YOU ALL for the effort and dedication in getting the trails brushed, signed, and groomed for all to enjoy! One frustrating topic that comes up every year is the disrespectful individuals that ignore signage and markers and ride where they are not welcome. We’ve all seen it. This season at my club there was a beaten path between two NO SNOWMOBILING signs. which are vital in keeping the Snowmobile program alive and well. I haven’t seen any tourism figures yet, but I am hopeful that we will see strong numbers here as well. What I have seen in my travels this season is very heavy traffic both on the roadways and in the restaurants and lodging and if that is any indication then I feel confident that this Winter’s economy has been a positive one. Talking with a few of the Snowmobile dealers in the State, sales have been strong and inventory has been moving quickly. Snowmobiling is one of the largest contributors to the State’s economy each year and relies directly on adequate snowfall to make this happen. So, whether you are a snow lover or not so much, it poses a huge boost to the Winter economy and is a welcome commodity. One thing to remember is that a strong Winter season is not only good for everyone right now, but also sets us all up for funding next year which is most important to the roughly 285 clubs that rely on this to operate and to stay in business. Outside of their own individual fundraising, operating expenses are funded by registrations and a small portion of the State gas tax through the Snowmobile program grant process.

along with the Jo Mary Riders and the Twin Pines Snowmobile club for making our ride absolutely perfect! March will find us in the County. The Gateway Snowmobile Club in Van Buren will host the Meeting and Showcase Ride, definitely looking forward to that. The March Meeting will be kind of bittersweet for me as this will be the last Director’s Meeting of my Presidential term. On the Legislative side of the MSA, our Lobbyist James Cote and funding committee chairman Matt Stedman have been hard at work all season with a number of Snowmobile related bills at the Statehouse. We have been lobbying hard for the clubs and fighting to pass a couple of bills that would pump more money into the Snowmobile Program and ultimately back into the hands of our clubs. It’s hard to believe that the season is wrapping up quickly and our focus for the next few weeks will be on the MSA Annual Banquet to be held on April 25 th at Jeff’s Catering in Brewer. As always, we will be honoring a host of exceptional individuals, clubs, dealers and manufacturers that have shown outstanding involvement and dedication within our Snowmobiling Community. We will be hosting a silent auction at the Banquet which always proves to be fun and sometimes competitive. So if you would like to feature yourself or your business in the auction, we are always looking for donation items. If you have something to donate to the silent auction, please call the MSA office 207-622-6983 or contact Eileen Lafland and they will be happy to help you. Call to reserve your spot today and come join us at the Banquet! That’s all for now folks, and just because I am passing on the torch doesn’t mean that I am going to disappear, and also doesn’t mean that I’m going to stop talking about Snowmobiling and advocating for the sport, so please feel free to reach out to me and let’s talk “Snowmobiling” And remember my door is always open! Thank you, Mark bring additional traffic and provide a huge economic boost for our communities and state of Maine. Thank you to everyone who chooses Maine as your place to ride. Whether you pack up from home in Maine or somewhere else we are thankful you choose Maine snowmobile trails to explore and make memories on. Another point of concern I see as I ride and talk to others is rider etiquette. Ride right, ride within your control and experience level, be respectful of others on the trail. When you get to an intersection pull all the way to the right and stop out of the way. Even though you may have to walk over to see the sign it’ll prevent an incident or jamming up an intersection with snowmobiles blocking the trail. If you are leading a group ride, make a plan & communicate it to the group. If you are with a new or inexperienced snowmobiler, take the time to ensure they know not to ride beyond their knowledge or ability level. Check in with them throughout the ride. We need new riders in the sport and it’s up to seasoned riders to make sure we help them along the way. I’ve been very fortunate so far this season to spend quite a bit of time snowmobiling and/or We worked with the landowner and put up yet more signs, fencing, and caution tape to miti gate the trespass and still had issues. Our clubs work very hard to keep our landowners happy. We always go the extra mile, so we don’t lose the trail. I would remind everyone that we do have resources and that a portion of every sled registration is allotted to IFW for enforce ment. Reach out and introduce yourself to the local game warden and build a relationship so you can make a direct call when issues pop up. Also know there are two wardens dedicated to landowner relations so if you do happen to call the warden dispatch, make it known it’s a landowner relations issue. That will get you faster response verses a general call for service. The MSA Trails App continues to display more and more local trails and POI’s. Most of the technical issues have been worked out. Many thanks to everyone that contributed data

Treasurer’s Report

Lori Hemmerdinger (207) 890-5455 544 Plains Road • Poland, ME 04274 Treasurer@mesnow.com Respectfully Submitted, Lori Hemmerdinger, Treasurer

Mark Chinnock, President 207-754-9874 544 Plains Road, Poland, ME 04274 napadude66@hotmail.com

Monthly Income Monthly Expense

$ 25,046.37 $ 31,864.16 $ (6,817.79) $ 93,956.22 $ 176,889.61 $187,111.98

H ello Everyone, We are well into another Snowmobile season and clubs have certainly been busy with the snow that did fall and keeping it on the trails and flat, and what a great job the groomers have done with that. Snowstorms were few and far in between but with the cold temps that we saw this season what snow fell seemed to stay and that made it, so groomers had something to work with which gave us great trails most of January and February. What we did see this Winter unlike the last several seasons was good snowfall in the Coastal and Southern parts of the State. I was very happy to see this as quite a few of the clubs in these Regions have struggled due to low or no snowfall in recent years. With all of this being said, this season has seen strong numbers both in membership as well as Snowmobile registrations, both of

Net Revenue

Short Term CD (2/28/26)

Checking (2/28/26)

Dedicated Account (2/28/26)

Pay Pal (2/28/26) Square (2/28/26)

$ $

150.00 348.00

Stripe (2/28/26) - Online Super Raffle $ - Special Events Account (2/28/26) $ 4,987.53 Credit Line (2/28/26) $ - Building Fund (2/28/26) $ 57,675.62 Brian Wass Safety Fund (2/28/26) $ 3,997.93 Scholarship Savings (2/28/26) $ 67,864.74 Scholarship CD (2/28/26) $ - Scholarship 12 Month CD (2/28/26) $ 5,187.15 Larry Lafland scholarship Fund (2/28/26) $ 3,097.78 at snowmobile events. I’ve seen new places, met new people and ridden with folks who have never snowmobiled before. I enjoy so many things about snowmobiling but being able to explore and see things you may never see from the road, a bike, a hiking trail is one of the things I think I enjoy the most. The scenery all around while riding is an amazing thing to take in. We should not take this for granted. I think that’s why we are all members of clubs and active within the local or State association in some way shape or form. Please bring this message forward to the folks you know and ride with those who are not involved: We have something unique here and want to make sure we can pass that on for generations to come. I know that’s what I am involved for. And why many of us at MSA spend time going to meetings, being on a zoom call or traveling to meet with other state/provincial agencies to understand what problems they may have and or what solutions they may have to problems we are encountering. Have a great March, hopefully we can ride it right to the end! Matt and feedback to improve the user experience. Please send an email to TRAILS@MES NOW,COM and let us know when your trails have been closed. We will change the status to RED and wait for the cold and snow next season. All for now…… Brent CLUB MEMBERS Once grooming begins submit your trail reports to: EDITOR@MESNOW.COM Please include your name and club affiliation

From the Executive VP

Matt Stedman 207-557-1921 (call or text) PO Box 621, Ashland ME 04732 Stedman.matt@jdirving.com

W ow, February is just flying by! There has been a lot of activity this month statewide from snowmobile clubs and riders. It’s awesome that we have had snow statewide, and it seems as though most all

Trails Committee Chair Report

Brent Spaulding, MSA Trails Chairman 207-944-7762 41 Madison Ave Brewer ME 04412 msatrailchair@gmail.com

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From The Executive Board Secretary’s Report - Shanna Towle Directors Meeting - At The Northern Timber Cruisers Snowmobile Club, Millinocket, Maine - February 7, 2026

omission and will be placed on file at the office. President’s Comments: Thanks everyone for coming out. Thank you to all the clubs that helped with the ride this morning. Groomer appreciation day is today, want to recognize all groomers in attendance (all groomer operators stood). Ex VP Comments: Thanks for being here. Thank you, Timber Cruiser kitchen crew, for a great meal. All clubs everywhere have been out and registrations are showing that.. VP Regional Reports: Western: Jerry, same as everywhere trails are good, lots of events happening, been visiting lots of clubs and getting good feedback Coastal: Dave W not here, but coastal clubs are out and active on the trails, first time in many years been good riding Central: Ron not in attendance, no report Northern: Nick M all clubs at full tilt going, issue in central Aroostook begging to stay away from the Loring Air Force arch hanger & airstrip this is active now, about to take away permission and will hurt multiple clubs. Gateway SC hosting March meeting with a ride that morning starting 9 am and the same day as the ice carousel, snobowl coming up end of the month in Caribou area. Lots going on in the county watch clubs Facebook for updates Eastern: Eileen asked Charlie Huntington to come forward. Charlie planned the ride today and appreciated all the work put into it today. Up and running in the region, had a regional meeting in Dennysville (which is the only clubhouse that is 24/7) on the Sunrise Trail, Eileen announced no longer going to be a regional VP changing position in April but more on that later. Director of Operations & Safety: Wonderful to see everyone, lots of calls at the office & business as usual, working on V&V policy insurance price down and working better for the clubs. Please email the office to let clubs know what clubs are paying for liability insurance. Just got a bunch more safety signs I had a busy last few weeks. Rangeley Sno Deo was a big hit. I set up a MSA display thanks to Boss Powersports in Rangeley for the space. We arrived in Millinocket for our February MSA meeting, it was well attended and the food was great! Thank you, Northern Timber Cruisers, and the museum is always a treat to view! Off to Lisbon the Pejepscot Snowmobile Club invited me down for a great tasting supper and full house attendance to talk sled riding, these folks know how to eat! Off to the Medway School for a safety demon stration the students are always awesome up there and it’s a joy to talk to them. Thank you, East Branch Snowmobile Club, for your help always. This event always tugs at my heart strings The Veteran’s Snowmobile Ride from Pittson Farm to The Border Riders Clubhouse in Dennistown/Jackman. Shawn Mills puts together a weekend for the Veterans it’s a great time. Fireworks, great food, lodging, and a couple of days of riding make it a repeat event season after season for the Veterans. The Was sookeag Snowmobile Club in Dexter was my next stop. I had the privilege to ride my friend Roger Dunphy’s Ski Doo 600 triple it is a col lector’s sled that looks as good as a new one. Thank you! The Wassookeag Club is one of those clubs on a mission to get it done! Great food on the weekends and awesome groomed trails. The scenery on their trails is spectacular as well. I’ve been able to ride lots of trails here in the Central and Western regions. The trails were great and I compliment all the clubs for mak ing it happen! Please let me know if I can help you folks out. Thank you for all you do! AL is your easiest way to make money please get involved we’ll help you.

and are available. There are 9 different safety signs & have “join a club” signs for trails too. Lots of positive feedback on the new trail app. Membership: Eileen says memberships rolling in well but still going to be looking at the clubs that have no members and may have disbanded. Contest deadline end of Feb. Forms are on the MSA website please give as much info as possible on nominations. Membership counts as of Wednesday February 4th, Total 8757 with 7121 family, 1645 business. By region: Central 1258, Coastal 1050, Eastern 2202, Northern 1955, Western 2292. Scholarship: Barry R applications are out and available, still taking donations and will be awarding 3 this April. Any student can apply and no age limit, just need to be an MSA member. MSA Trail & MapGears Update: Brent is in Rangely with John, everything in the state is rideable could use a foot of snow but good out there. Rode ITS 84 from Plymouth to Rangely not a lot of deviation and looking good, going to be doing an update tonight on the app. Please email any updates to trails@mesnow. com. Funding & Legislation: Matt updated on our bill proposing that prior to Dec 15 discounted rate but after that will be an increase for “in season”, voted to take off the $1 million general fund ask and the bill has been voted to move forward for the early registration & in season split, still cheaper than NH but will put more money on the trails. This will take effect, if passed, in 2027 season. Will have to do some Q&A out there and how it will work. Things are going fast in Legislation but James is on top of everything. Hall of Fame & Hospitality: Gail if you want to nominate anyone for hall of fame get them in. Forms on the MSA website. Recap of some of the awards for nomination. Gave short joke. Old Business: March Showcase Ride update Northern

Region- Gateway SC hosting March meeting with a ride that morning starting 8:30AM from the intersection of ITS105/81 & Club Trail 94. This is where they have a large business sponsor’s billboard and the same day as the ice carousel the ride will go by the carousel, meeting that night at the Van Buren community center (130 Champlain St) with social hour starting at 5 pm, dinner at 6 pm ($20 per person), and meeting at 7 pm (Zoom will be available). New Business: Preparation for Annual Meeting- Coming up in April with all kinds of awards, so you need to get nominations in by Feb 28th. Always taking donations for the silent auction. 1 st Reading of the nominations for next season- 2026-2027 MSA Officer Nominations President Matt Stedman, Ex. Vice President Eileen Lafland, Treasurer Lori Hemmerdinger, Assistant Treasurer Barry Ryan, Secretary Shanna Towle, Eastern Region VP Barry Ryan, Easton Region Directors: Charlie Huntington, Craig Lemieux; Northern VP Nik Morrill, Jeff Brooks, Denise Duperre; Central Region VP Ron Nunes, Alan Dugas, Dave Cogley; Western VP Jerry Major, Paul Gallant, Paul Kennedy; Coastal Region VP Dave Watson, Tom England, Joe Walsh. After reading, it was asked 3 times if there were any nominations from the floor, but there were none. Will do the second reading at the next meeting in March. Announcements & Events: none mentioned other than what was in the earlier regional updates. Pot of Gold: Drawing drawn by Charlie Huntington, pulled Quad County in Springfield but no one in attendance so back into the pot. 50/50: Lucky number was ticket 906077 & winner was Steve Lane worth $100. Adjourn the meeting at 8:18pm. T he season is coming to a close quickly, and so is the deadline to submit an application for this year’s scholarship awards. All appli cations MUST BE POSTMARKED by April 1 st . The way the mail system is working if you are submitting an application, PLEASE SEND IT IN NOW! Don’t wait until the last minute because it may not make it in time. Once again there will be three $1500 schol arships awarded this year. Remember, you can apply each year if you want. If you are reapplying, PLEASE UPDATE your appli cation including new reference letters and all other information which means a new essay. You also do not have to be a high school senior to apply. You can already be in college! If you have any questions, please contact the MSA office and they will direct you to a Scholarship Fund person. T his will be the last report before the annual meeting. At that meeting we will announce the membership totals and present the annual awards. If you haven’t gotten your member ships in, time is running out! Here are the numbers as of Feb. 20 th when this was written Family memberships 7,665 Business memberships 1,897 Total memberships 9,532 Totals by Region Central 1,428 Coastal 1,169 Eastern 2,419 Northern 2,087 Western 2,420 245 of the 285 clubs have submitted mem berships at this point. There are 2 clubs with over 200 memberships, fourteen clubs with over 100 memberships, and eleven clubs with over 75 memberships. Great job everyone!!

Shanna Towle, Secretary 207-341-1747 878 Main Steet, Palmyra, ME 04965 shannatowle@gmail.com

Attendees: In person: Mark Chinnock, Ex VP Matt Stedman, Treasurer Lori Hemmerdinger, Secretary Shanna Towle, Al Swett, Marion Pinkham, Ed Pinkham, Eileen Lafland, Barry Ryan, Gail Ryan, Terri Major, Jerry Major, Bob Flagg, Nick Morrill, David L Cogley, John F Cogley, Steven Lane, Charlie Huntington, Dave Taylor, Kevin Ingersoll, Terry Berube, Kim Turner, Randy Turner, John Farrington, Donna Farrington, David Smith, Andrew Smith Via Zoom: Joe Walsh, Brent Spaulding, Mike Grass Jr, John Monk, Tom England, Brad Barker, Ed Brownell Meeting called to order at 7:04pm by President Mark Chinnock. Pledge of allegiance was said. Secretary’s Report: Copies handed out to read, motion by Jerry, second by David Cogley to accept as written. Motion passed. Treasurer’s Report: Read by Lori H and copies handed out to review, no errors or

Director of Operations

Scholarship Fund Committee

Eileen Lafland, 207-843-7813 PO Box 733, Holden ME 04429 L.andE.lafland525476@gmail.com

Alan Swett, 207-872-7282 234 County Rd, Waterville ME 04901 snowtraveler@roadrunner.com W ell, it’s been a very good year to snow mobile! Statewide snow had folks rid ing from places they have not been able to ride from or to in years. I met a group at the Nor ridgewock Park and Ride that rode all the way from Augusta. The Madison branch rail trail is a great addition to our MSA trail system, people from Central and Southern Maine are taking off from this new trail and riding to the Great Maine North Woods. It’s doing what it was intended to do. The supporting businesses along this trail are benefiting too. I’ve talked to many of them and they are very happy with the outcome. I’m working with a Maine insurance com pany on liability insurance. Hope to have some answers soon. Also, the Super Raffle will be beginning its 2026 life soon. Can’t wait for the new prizes and to our clubs, this

From The Membership Corner

Eileen Lafland, 207-843-7813 PO Box 733, Holden ME 04429 L.andE.lafland525476@gmail.com

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From The Executive Board

G reetings to all, this year has been a great year across the state. Especially in the coastal region, which has not received a lot of snow in the past several years. Volunteers and clubs stepped up and continued to provide great Trails, fantastic grooming, and lots of fun. Thank you to all who volunteer their time. Your dedication is not unnoticed. The snow is still falling and hopefully will continue to keep our season going. As always, we need more people involved and to join a club to support our sport. If you know people who ride but are not part of a club, please ask them to get involved. I have enjoyed this year so much it’s been great. I hope it was for you. Keep on dancing. Ride safe. Dave Wear your PPE this off-season and every season where needed safety glasses and ear protection are the two biggest things you can wear to protect yourself from long-term inju ries. Proper footwear, gloves, face shields and anything to protect you. Be safe out there! Al snow conditions will be changing be cautious of that. Heavily travelled trails will become thin with dirt showing. There may be wash outs towards the end of the month along with the wildlife moving. But we’ve had a Maine winter finally snow Statewide great conditions very cold weather. Yes, we missed a couple of big storms but in general it was a wonderful season. Thank you for being part of it. Thank you for supporting our MSA businesses. I always say be safe out there If you’re coming from the South on I95 at the end of your adventure head back the same way you came up, no broken bones or destroyed sleds. Rules to live by: Being safe on a snowmobile starts with the operator. From buying the right protective gear to maintain speeds that allow you to oper ate the sled in a reasonable manner. We need to stay on the right side of the trail, stay on marked trails watching for wildlife and other snowmobilers. Notify someone where you’re going and how long you think you’ll be gone. Don’t ride to close to other sleds maintain a safe distance. If you’re new to snowmobiling take a safety course and try your sled out a few times in a less traveled area before you head out on our trail system to embark on a long ride. Get some confidence built in you. Be careful while riding at night, crossing roads, railroad crossings, logging road crossings use caution always look both ways. Ride on the trail and stay on the marked trail, be careful of ice on lakes and rivers, many of our accidents are alcohol related riding a sled after a cocktail doesn’t fair too well and is the leading cause of fatalities.

Safety Committee

ported me whenever I asked for help, hosted MSA directors’ meetings, sent in member ships making this region the number two region for many years only behind the west ern region who has the Rangeley Club. You always found a way to make things happen, and I am forever grateful. To all the Regional Directors I have had over the years -without your eyes and ears and knowledge of the clubs you represent my role would have been more difficult. I always knew I could reach out to you and you would deliver. Thanks so much. Okay enough reminiscing- on to recent news. Thank you Dennysville SC for hosting a regional meeting at your club on Feb. 5 th and the great chicken dinner at no charge , Northern Timber Cruisers for hosting the MSA directors meeting on Feb. 7th and the deli cious meal, to East Branch Snow Rovers for allowing us to ride in to your groomer rodeo and the wonderful meal you were serving and to Jo- Mary Riders, Northern Timber Cruisers , and East Branch Snow Rovers for grooming the trails for our showcase ride. Everyone that rode and attended the meeting was pleased with all you offered. Great job all Eastern Region clubs for the effort you have put in this year submitting memberships and keeping your trails in great condition. There has been snow all across the region this year, so clubs have been working overtime to keep their trails up. There were many events and activities all across the state in February, too numerous to list, with many held in the eastern Region. Mother Nature and Ole Man Winter kept giv ing most of the state enough snow to keep the trails open. On the trip to Dennysville I was impressed with the grooming of the Sunrise Trail and the amount of snow it had. It seems like many if not all clubs in the state will have grooming hours for their grants this year. Great job to all of those men and women who spend long hours on the trails at slow speed making the ribbons of white everyone enjoys. Don’t forget everyone- The MSA Annual meeting will be held on Sat. April 25th at Jeff’s Catering in Brewer. This is a chance to recognize everyone that has worked so hard to keep Maine trails the premier destination. Membership awards as well as individual awards will be presented. I hope to see as many of you there as possible. Eileen School vacation week saw a huge increase in the number of sleds on the trail, an increase that has carried over into the following week which is nice to see. Keep an eye on the area clubs’ social media pages as many have events planned for March. I want to give a Shout Out to the Limestone Snow Hawks for being the club that never gives up. Your club has done an amazing job working hard and smart to keep your Club Trail 89 open. My hats off to you all!! The end of February marked the 26 th anni versary of the “Ride of the Millennium” that took place in 2000. Three members of the Caribou Snowmobile Club made the roughly 6,000 mile trek from Tok, Alaska back to Car ibou, Maine, in 30 days. Their ride raised just over $17,000 for Pine Tree Camp for Handi capped Children and the Pine Tree Burn Foun dation. Not long after their accomplishment a section of ITS 90E in Woodland also known as the Alaska to Maine trail was dedicated to them for the dream they achieved. To this day it is a great story that many locals still like to talk about and reminisce over. A reminder about the Northern Region Showcase Ride & Dinner meeting, hosted by the Gateway Snowmobile Club in Van Buren on March 14th. Check out the Maine Snow mobile Association Facebook page for details on the day and the link to RSVP for the dinner and meeting. I’ll end by saying I hope everyone gets a chance to get out and keep putting on those miles of smiles before the season ends. By the looks of the extended forecast that could be sooner than we would like. Remember to always RIDE RIGHT, RIDE SOBER & RIDE SMART!!!! Nick

Eastern Region VP

Eileen Lafland 207-843-7813 PO Box 733, Holden ME 04429 L.andE.lafland525476@gmail.com

Alan Swett 207-872-7282 234 County Rd, Waterville ME 04901 snowtraveler@roadrunner.com

H ello everyone, This news article will be one of reminisc ing so please bear with me. Back at the annual MSA meeting in 2003 I was asked if I would accept the nomination for Eastern Region VP. I gladly accepted that position and have held it ever since. Through these years I have met some incredible Eastern Region club members, been to some awesome club meetings, held numerous regional meetings and many other accomplishments too many to list. I have trav elled to MSA director’s meetings across this state and in some remote areas, all the while doing what we all love, talking snowmobiling. All through this journey I have had the support of my MSA family and “my clubs” as I have fondly called them. Also, during this journey until a little over a year ago I had Larry by my side, and we did this journey together. What an incredible experience it has been and one I would not change for any reason. With all that being said, this will most likely be my last Eastern Region VP news article. I have been asked to have my name placed on to the nominations to become the Executive VP for MSA. For me, it is a giant honor to be asked to move up. I was asked before but I declined as I wanted to have my time with Larry, and I am so glad I did. Now however, I feel I can devote the time needed to this new position and so I said yes. There is always the chance another name will be placed on the nominations, so who knows, if this will hap pen but I believe it will. To “my” Eastern Region clubs- You have stood beside me through these years and sup

I had a great day last month spreading snow mobile safety at The Medway School in East Millinocket. These students really pay attention to the information me and The East Branch Snowmobile/ATV club members had to tell. From trailering to clothing, emergency situations, gas stops, riding on private land owner’s land and just a wonderful day of tell ing stories about trail riding. We had a snow mobile in the gym and that was “really cool” according to the students! They got to see a sled upfront and personal. Although most of them have sleds it was a joy listening to their tales of my snowmobile is better than yours! Thank you to the members of the East Branch Sno Rovers for helping out I really appreciate it. You’re a special group indeed. We’ve had several accidents this year. Preventable accidents, inexperienced riders, going too fast and losing control misjudging a trail because of their abilities. Two deaths this year are too many. As we head into March the

Coastal Region VP

Northern Region VP

David Watson • 207-205-1558 412 Roberts Ridge Rd, E Waterboro, ME 04030 Dwatson6841@gmail.com

MSA MEMBERS CHANGE OF ADDRESS Let us know when your USPS mailing address has changed - so you won’t miss an issue of the Maine Snowmobiler Members Name: _____________________________________ Old Mailing Address: ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ NEW MAILING ADDRESS: ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ Mail to: Maine Snowmobile Association, PO Box 80, Augusta, ME 04332 fax: 207-622-7669 or e-mail info to: editor@mesnow.com

Nick Morrill, 207-554-0074 406 Main Street, Stockholm ME 04783 landscaper9791@gmail.com O K!!!!! GUYS!!!!! Let’s get at it!!!! Clubs throughout the region are firing on all cyl inders; daily and nightly grooming operations keep the trails smooth and flat, especially con sidering the amount of snow on the ground in the eastern portion of Central Aroostook County. Overall, the trails have been very busy from top to bottom in the region which is nice to see for all our area wide businesses who depend upon our sport in the winter months.

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