New groomer
Voyageur Trail Society Inc. welcomed its newest groomer to its fleet Tuesday. A PistenBully, the groomer will better maneuver the tight corners and narrow trails that can be found within the 204 miles of trails maintained by organization. VTSI, a non-profit organization, maintains the trails from Kabetogama, to Ash River, Crane Lake to just south of Orr, that connect many area businesses to each other in the winter.
The pull-tabs and raffles that these businesses sell helped to raise money for this new machine and will continue to help, according to VTSI Trail Administrator Julie Sawyer. Sawyer said purchase of the groomer was assisted by a generous donation from the Ash River/ Kabetogama Snowdrifters, and the hard work of VTSI board members who obtained the grant-and-aid necessary. She recognized the efforts of groomer operators, who spend their nights grooming the trails so riders have the best experience possible and continue to support VTSI and the local communities. A rider herself, Sawyer said the seeing the snow haze surrounding the groomer as it’s coming down the trail is a great site as it means a smooth ride is ahead. “So, support your local snowmobile club, support your groomer operators, and enjoy the Voyageur Trails,” She said. “Ride safe and ask yourself ‘Have your hugged a groomer operator today?’ Or maybe just a thumbs up as you pass will do.”
