Lack of snow poses problems for snowmobilers

By Carla Occaso Times Argus Staff BURKE – Scarce snow has caused some snowmobilers to blaze new trails, raising ire with residents concerned about road safety and prompting officials to amend the snowmobile ordinance for the first time in 18 years.

"We need the authority to stop dangerous crossings," said Selectman Sam Sanderson, explaining the move is necessary since selectmen do not have any rules governing snowmobile crossings, and complaints over dangerous crossings on the busy Burke Hollow Road have been more frequent.

Some say it is spurred in part by lack of snow, forcing snowmobilers to create new paths.

Selectmen met last Monday to discuss restricting some points where snowmobiles cross Class II roads, attracting members from the Vermont Association of Snow Travelers, Burke Drift Skippers snowmobiling club and concerned residents.

The original ordinance, adopted in April 1988, states, "Snowmobiles are allowed on third and fourth class roads in the town of Burke obeying all state laws and traveling single file, and not exceeding 25 miles per hour. Snowmobiles are allowed on first and second class in crossing only."

Apparently this winter, riders have taken to crossing new spots on busy second-class roads, requiring a new rule.

Selectmen suggested restricting second-class road crossings to those attached to VAST trails, especially along the Burke Hollow Road, a winding second-class road connecting East Burke to West Burke. Any snowmobiler seeking to cross a Class II road at other spots could get special permission from selectmen.

Selectman Emery Noyes said despite the new rule, snowmobilers are welcome in Burke, and "we don't want to discourage people from coming here," especially because of the positive economic impact they have on the area. Most of the roughly 25 people in attendance supported the sport, but some expressed concerns about noise and safety. Constable J. Paul Gallant asked how he would enforce the new ordinance, saying, "It is very difficult to enforce these rules and regulations. I can't stay there all night long to see if one or two snowmobiles cross the road."

Selectman Sam Sanderson said such vigilance would be necessary "only if it gets to be a habit" and crossings would only be questioned if selectmen get complaints. "If it isn't dangerous, don't worry about it," Sanderson said, adding later, "we'll take these things one at a time."

Resident Carlos Bean said he had to cross Route 114 regularly to get his grooming equipment to maintain VAST trails on his own property and worried he would be in violation of the new rule, but he was told the town has no authority over Class I roads, which are governed by the state.

One woman said she believes more signage is needed to direct snowmobile riders along the trailways. She said although she is happy to accommodate questions, many snow traveler stop at her house to ask for directions to the trail because signs are not sufficient.

One man said he did not even know a VAST trail crossed his land until winter came and snowmobiles started zooming across his property. He asked how he could get them to re-route the trail so his trees would not be disturbed. Kenneth Gammell, Caledonia County VAST director, said he would be happy to work something out with the landowner.

Gammell said his organization supports any ordinance promoting safety. He said VAST is happy and willing to enforce violations and work to make landowners happy. He also said the sport of snowmobiling brings millions of dollars to the Northeast Kingdom each year, noting VAST would hold their annual winter event in Lyndonville for the first time this Feb. 17 and 18.

The new rule goes into effect in 45 days. Selectmen encouraged the public to come forward with input on wording.

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