Most people take riding for granted……I say that the land is privately owned, but most people don’t digest that……they see big expanses of forest land and fields and can hardly wait to thumb down on the throttle and make tracks……….but someone does own that……and everyone that veers off the marked trail or sets out back country riding without a proper guide really is making it difficult for all of us.

We are very fortunate that hundreds of landowners across The County, and for that matter, across the State, offer up their lands to allow us all to enjoy our outdoor recreation…..not just snowmobiling but hunting, fishing, atving, etc.   Up here in The County there are lots of folks that make their living off the land…..and believe it or not, snowmobiles and grooming equipment can impact fields and wooded areas despite the snow cover.   Groomers and snowmobiles tend to drive the frost a bit deeper in the ground which impacts when a farmer can start to plow and plant.   So when we deal with a landowner and they request that we place the trail in a certain area…..well….we do and we appreciate it if, when you ride, you follow the trail.

This year was particularly tough and we had lots of complaints about sleds digressing and driving across fields and across harvested forest areas.  The problem is sometimes equipment is left in fields or in the woods, or there is irrigation equipment including pipes and inlets, that although marked, might not be visible to the snowmobiler when there is blowing snow and drifting.   So remember, riding in Maine and here in The County is a privilege and not a right.    We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the landowners that are willing to open their lands….so respect that and make sure you thank the landowners you know for the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors !

On a sad note this week was also the end of an era of sorts here in The County.  We lost two pretty well known folks that take with them a great deal of history from this great region.

Gary Pelletier was an iconic figure in northern Maine………he epitomized The County with his rugged individualism, his confidence,  his ingenuity  and his big hearted ways when it came to helping out others.  He knew the north woods like the back of his hand and guided many folks on some truly memorable  outings……..he will by sorely missed by his wife Linda and children Tom, Gary, Kevin, Kurt and Lori.

And Carol Derosier succumbed to a courageous battle with cancer this last week as well.   For those that frequent Lakeview Restaurant and Camping Resort…..Carol and her late husband Dick were the pioneers of the establishment and always part of the landscape.   Again, confident, courageous and creative entrepreneurs……folks that define what The County is all about.  Carol will be sadly missed by her mom and three daughters Lisa, Becky and Jennifer.

Well now we wait for spring, warm temps and planting season……and oh…..did we forget……the other riding season…….yeah that’s ride….atving here in The County is some of the best in the eastern United States.   Log onto visitaroostook.com and check out the atv promo clip…..if that doesn’t make you want to ride during the non snow season I don’t know what would…….

So…..clean off the sled, service it, remember to disconnect the battery cables because those darn electronics drain it quick…..and plug the exhaust or breather boxes if you have them to keep the mice and squirrels from infiltrating your system….jack it up and let’s hope for another great riding season next winter !!

Over a foot of snow settled in across The County and most projects agreed to get out and groom although they all may not and even if they do, some trails won’t be open but most ITS trails will be open and connected for the weekend.

Please remember that the field markings may be limited so pay attention to where you are going and if field markings do exist….please stay on that marked trail as we have received lots of complaints that folks are digressing from the trails…remember you are on privately owned property that landowners have graciously allowed us access to.   Now if you live on a 1 acre lot I know when you hit the vast fields of The County you think it doesn’t matter……well believe me it does and to explain that would take up too many column inches (guess that doesn’t apply in the world of blogs!) so suffice it to say….please stick to the trail and keep access open for all of us.

CAUTIONARY NOTES:

•  Although it has been cold….there is      still lots of water out there so use caution in low lying areas and      remember….rivers are open so stay clear.  Lots of brooks and streams are running as well so use caution
• There will be water on lakes as the weather warms up again and due to streams running into lakes the ice onditions change daily so stay to marked trails and check locally before heading out
• Conditions will vary so remember to reduce speed and please stay on       marked trails.  We have had lots of complaints that folks have been drifting off trails especially in fields…….

 Trail Conditions

ITS 81   Well Madawaska hasn’t stopped grooming so from there coming south through Frenchville you should be ok.  Grand Isle didn’t get back to me.  Caswell will groom.  Limestone doubted they would go out but Ft Fairfield and Easton will along with Mars Hill and Walker Siding.  Heading south, Ox Bow, Shin Pond will get out but no reports are coming in from further south so check locally.

ITS 83 The jewel in the Crown of Maine, Madawaska will be out along with St Agatha, Caribou and Washburn.  Presque Isle didn’t think they would go out but Mars Hill and Houlton plan on rolling.  Not sure about Linneus and Sherman but from the ITS 85 split south everyone is trying to roll.

ITS 85   This ribbon really hasn’t been broken too much this winter and Ft Kent and Eagle Lake will roll.   Portage will go over  their section and Ashland will go out if there is at least a foot of snow.  Heading south Ox Bow and Shin Pond and the northern Katahdin folks will be rolling once the snow lets up.

ITS 86  The Ox Bow end is closed due to logging but Meduxneakeag will roll to St Croix Lake for locals and visitors alike

ITS 88 Aroostook River will groom to the clubhouse and beyond and Ashland indicated they would roll providing there is sufficient snow so check locally.

ITS 90   Plenty of ice on the lake so Portage will roll…..but stick to the marked trail

ITS 92 Ft Kent, St Francis and Allagash will roll

ITS 105  Van Buren will roll, they will also try to do Rt 94 and Rt 79.  Unfortunately there is open water on Madawaska River and Halfway Brook so Rt 89 north from Caribou will not be open.

Most projects will try to open ITS trails but some smaller trails may not be groomed but there will be absolutely plenty of spring riding on….well …..the first day of spring…..ok maybe not til the second day

Culinary Delights and Special Events

January – March.

The Washburn Clubhouse and the Meduxneakeag Ramblers clubhouse are open for breakfasts until the end of March. Meduxneakeag is open for breakfast Saturdays from 6-9 a.m. and Washburn is open Saturdays for breakfast and lunch from 7-2 and Sundays from 7-12 through the end of the month

Stew Nights at the Presque Isle Clubhouse on Fridays through the end of March….this Friday maybe the last….

Homed cook meals at the St Francis Clubhouse on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

And of course in the southern reaches of ITS 85 south of Ox Bow heading to Shin Pond and the northern Katahdin region you will find great conditions.  All those projects are out grooming and they are retaining a good snow pack.

Avid sledders are watching the weather as it looks like the Ides of March might be working to put one more significant snow storm out, ironically it will be around the first day of spring.  This will have mixed blessings.    For the snowmobiler it will be an extension to their season.  For the grooming projects it will create a problem and here is why.

The 2011-2012 season was a difficult season for everyone across the State as limited snowfall and unusually warm temperatures dropped the total snowmobile registrations by 30,000.  Now for the snowmobiler that might be great…..less traffic on their favorite trails….but for grooming projects who work the season not knowing what the revenues might be that come into the grant program that sustains them…it meant a significant loss of funding. ….15% to be exact.   Combine  the loss of funding with the ever rising cost of fuel and the ever increasing cost of purchasing and maintaining equipment and you have a disaster looming.

At the start of this season all grooming projects were told that they would start off with a 10% cut because there just wasn’t sufficient funding remaining in the project to cover anticipated expenses and the hope of recovering 30,000 registrations was unrealistic.  Wouldn’t you know we received snow early and everyone hit the ground grooming.   In all honesty, if we hadn’t had a thaw were we lost about 12 days of grooming, we all probably would have been out of money by the end of February…..our busiest time.

Now, when most projects have begun to pick up field markings and close out trails, March is looking at giving us more snow…..but here is the dilemma.  On March 14^th most projects received a letter from the Department of Conservation indicating that this year registration numbers were a bit better than last year and the consensus of the Trail Fund Advisory Committee was to restore the 10% reduction on any grant that has exceeded their grant or will exceed it when they end their season.  Although this is great news it is has also placed pressure on projects to get their grant reimbursement applications in by April 15^th which is more than a month ahead of the normal deadline.   Most projects have mixed feelings.

The whole trail grooming program is interesting.  In some instances municipalities help grooming projects with grant paperwork, funding groomers and offering fuel at municipal rates.  In other instances businesses who benefit from the snowmobile tourism actually do the grooming themselves for the club, while for most projects, the grooming is done by unpaid volunteers who, like you and I, work regular jobs, have to plow their yards after a storm and then climb into a groomer to groom trails.   These are the folks that have $8000 fuel bills to pay and $12000 groomer payments and have to raise their payments all on the backs of volunteers that make chicken stew, cook hot dogs, or raffle off quilts.  

According to the Maine Snowmobile Association, snowmobiling brings in about $350 million dollars to the state coffers based on a study conducted by the University of Southern Maine.  Unfortunately that multimillion dollar number has nothing to do with the hundreds of volunteers that make it happen.   The money that the grooming projects get isn’t from that $350 million pot it is from a portion of snowmobile registration fees and a small portion of the gas tax.   

Now I am not a political person…..doesn’t seem to get you anywhere…..but at this juncture in defense of those volunteers who donate countless hours of back breaking work, sometimes at their own expense,  I think it is fair to say that the snowmobile registration increase noted in LD 268 would go a long way to ease the burden on the volunteers that actually create a multimillion dollar industry for the State of Maine.    A registration fee isn’t a tax it is a voluntary purchase……it would be my choice to register my two sleds or not.   

So, as forecasters watch a storm possibly moving in for next week……..don’t be surprised if all projects don’t get out and groom.   The funds are drying up along with their enthusiasm.   What we all should do is thank them for working their magic this winter and keeping trails across The County in great shape despite a winter season that brought rain, big snows and big winds.    But then again….this is The County and I guess I wouldn’t expect anything less…………

Trail Report

Cautionary Notes

• There is lots of water and lots of ice.   Despite cold temps, water is running across trails so low lying areas and fields will pose some problems.  You need to reduce speed because you never know where a problem area lies this time of year
• Please….we have had tons of complaints from projects that sledders are not staying on marked fields, especially in field areas.  Remember riding is a privilege and not a right…..landowners are already threatening clubs they will not allow them back……I know to some they see an open field and think so what…..but it isn’t your land and it does matter….please if you ride here in The County respect our landowners and stay on marked trails.
• Anywhere there was logging earlier this winter there is bare ground and mud now so it makes sense to rethink trying to hit any of those areas.
• Rivers are open….please avoid them.   Lake routes still have pretty good ice but due to melting and warm temps the inlets are flowing pretty hard and will change ice conditions daily.

ITS 81 Up north pretty much gone pick and choose around Madawaska.  Shin Pond section into the northern Katahdin region ok

ITS 83  Railbeds sections are holding but field sections central and north are sparse.  Lots of water and ice so call ahead before you venture out.  Shin Pond into the Katahdin region is good although in town Millinocket and Medway you probably won’t get access but out of town and in higher elevations the sledding is still good.   From the central and northern regions you can still work your way to the eateries on Long Lake……just use caution.

ITS 85 Eagle Lake and Ft Kent were going to try and go out when it cooled off but south to Masardis from Ashland is mostly gone….but Ox Bow south to Shin Pond and Katahdin region is still in good shape with some good riding

ITS 86  Closed…

ITS 88  Done

ITS 90  No grooming.   Water holes.  Salmon Brook open.  East…snow gone.

ITS 92   Ft Kent, St Francis and Allagash were going to roll as it cooled down.  There is a good snow pack but you will run into a few bare spots but absolutely was passable Thursday.

ITS 105  Rideable between Washburn and Van Buren on the railbed but then you lose snow in fields.  Also you must watch out for water holes even on the railbeds especially in Stockholm.

Culinary Delights and Special Events

January – March.

The Washburn Clubhouse and the Meduxneakeag Ramblers clubhouse are open for breakfasts through the end of March snow or not. Meduxneakeag is open for breakfast Saturdays from 6-9 a.m. and Washburn is open Saturdays for breakfast and lunch from 7-2 and Sundays from 7-12.

Stew Nights at the Presque Isle Clubhouse on Fridays  through the end of March

Homed cook meals at the St Francis Clubhouse on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

March 16

Ashland Snowmobile Club Annual Auction  5:00-6:30 supper/ 7:00 p.m. auction

March 17

Pleasant Ridge Runners Breakfast at the clubhouse 7-11 a.m. (so close to St Patty’s day maybe they will have green eggs and corned beef hash…..but we are not sure !)

On the way back, the sun’s rays were breaking the eastern sky and the temps were just perfect….not too cold and not too warm……..it was definitely the Goldilocks syndrome!!   I checked my sled and made sure it was ready to go, donned my bibs, jacket and other necessary garb and headed down to the trail.   When I got to the trail it was like snowmobilers nirvana…….freshly groomed with not one track!  Full moon set, sunshine, perfect temp and first track………it doesn’t get any better than that.  

I gently pushed the throttle and moved out down a perfectly groomed trail.  When I got to the first intersection I stopped to wait for another rider to join me.   By now the blue azure sky was clear as a bell and while I waited and took in all the sights I noticed an eagle soaring above me and was mesmerized by its soaring talents.   I thought of something someone said about using a map and navigating with gps and other electronic gadgets and I had to smile……….I just knew I didn’t need any fancy dancy navigational equipment because I was right where I wanted to be !!

Once the other rider came we headed north, gassed up at St Peter’s Store then headed up ITS 83 to meet the crew.   After a little while ten sledders rounded the corner and we did the meet and greet and decided we would head out on what we refer to as the Debouille Loop.  

With twelve of us in a group it is hard as you don’t know if you are going too fast or too slow but it wasn’t long until we settled into a pretty good pace and headed for our first stop, Eagle Lake.   The trails over were a mix of windy wooded trails and more open logging roads…….the sun and the sky were spectacularly beautiful and the traffic was pretty decent with most sledders being very prudent and responsible riders; using hand signals and rolling at a reasonable speed.

Food and fuel stop in Eagle Lake

In Eagle Lake we stopped for a potty break (ladies need that periodically !!!), some java and some petrol.  Once we were all gassed and coffeed up we headed down ITS 85 to ITS 120 to begin our trek west.   If you haven’t been to the Debouille Public Land Reserve you really should try to put that on your bucket or YOLO list…..spring, summer, fall or winter the Reserve offers great hiking, great kayaking or canoeing, great fishing, and of course great snowmobiling…….and you can explore ice caves….a real refreshing treat during the summer months!!

We stopped on Togue Pond for a Kodak moment and made sure we were all doing ok…….no complaints so we moved northwest  hoping to make Ft Kent for a late lunch.    Had to make a pit stop at Chamberlains….the last gas if you are coming from Ft Kent to do this loop………shared some small talk, some homemade venison sticks one of the gentlemen had made and brought for snacks then moved on. 

The line up on Togue Pond with Debouille Mtn in the background

By 2 p.m. we pulled along the dike trail on the St John River  in Ft Kent and descended into the park lot for a well deserved lunch.   Within an hour we were back at it and headed out towards Frenchville.   We followed ITS 85 to an absolutely spectacular scenic overlook (of sorts) looking over the St John River.  The rolling hills are fun to ride and take you through some beautiful country.

Yours truly taking in some great scenary

By 4 p.m. we all pulled into the Lakeview Restaurant where we left them to relax and then return to a house they had rented on Long Lake.    As I made the trek back to the real world I was reminded of the importance of the economic impact of snowmobiling  in Aroostook County and how much just  a group of 10 non residents contribute to our local businesses.   But they do it because we always tend to offer a great experience despite some challenges dealing with Mother Nature.

Final stop at Lakeview

At this time of the season most grooming projects are running out of funding and energy after having to replace markings three times this winter !!   But they all do it because afterall it is The County and we all know it is exactly where we want to be!

Cautionary Notes:

•   Warm  temps will meal up snow quickly so conditions will be better early then later
• Water definitely flows downhill so expect to find some along the bottom of fields and in low lying areas in wooded sections and yes on lakes there will be slush.
• Expect the unexpected and use caution
• Still some active logging on Rt 75 east of Squa Pan, on 81A in the      Mapleton/Chapman area, on ITS 86 on the Ox Bow end and warm temps have  exposed bare ground here so you may wish to look at other options
• REMEMBER…..moose      and deer  roaming even more so use      extreme caution we are currently installing caution signs in high deer traffic areas so be alert

Trail News:

ITS 81     Most projects rolled Wednesday evening but not all.    For the most part the trail is in good shape however you will find some problem spots in the Limestone section.   Also 81A in the Caswell system is a nice ride.  Moving further south Mars Hill was going out Thursday on their section and Walker Siding’s machine is down but Aroostook River was going to pitch in and give them a hand.

ITS 83      Most projects have been out since Wednesday all the way through to the ITS 85 intersection in the southern Aroostook area.

ITS 85      Once again most projects have rolled but warm temps will meal up the base however this trail probably has the best base of all trails and should keep sledders happy for a couple of weeks…..weather permitting.

ITS 86                 The trail is open but on the Ox Bow end plowed roads are now down to bare ground so you may want to consider and alternative route.   Unfortunately connector Rt 62A through to ITS 114 is not open  this winter.

ITS 88      Ashland was going to roll Wednesday night or Thursday night and the Aroostook River end is good.  Remember though there is logging and plowed road on 81A

ITS 90   This trail has been groomed in its entirety this week.

ITS 92    Good shape again this week with lots of traffic…..groomers rolled Wednesday and will roll again this week.

ITS 105   Most all projects have groomed at least once this week and some have been able to get out twice.  Rt 94 off 105 in the northern area is groomed and in excellent shape as well as Rt 89 south to Caribou.   This provides a great loop off ITS 83.

ITS 110   groomed this week and in good shape from ITS 81 in Mattawamkeag to Drew Plantation

ITS 112   groomed once so far this week

ITS 114    Rockabema rolling this week

ITS 120 (Debouille)  groomed by the weekend at least once and maybe more weather permitting

Soldier Pond   Pretty good just stay right on the corners please !

Twin Lakes (Daigle) Little lean on field markings and you will find a big water hole on 73 B…made it across early in the morning but you may get a little damp later in the day

St. Agatha  Groomed this week but please use caution in fields…..83 along the “powerline” was in good shape

Frenchville  They were out and their fields are in good shape but still use caution.

Caswell  Was out through their section which is in pretty good shape

Culinary Delights and Special Events

January – March.

The Washburn Clubhouse and the Meduxneakeag Ramblers clubhouse are open for breakfasts for the season. Meduxneakeag is open for breakfast Saturdays from 6-9 a.m. and Washburn is open Saturdays for breakfast and lunch from 7-2 and Sundays from 7-12.

Stew Nights at the Presque Isle Clubhouse on Fridays !!

Homed cook meals at the St Francis Clubhouse on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 March 9

Pleasant Ridge Runners Club Ride to the Blue Moose. Leave the clubhouse at 9 a.m.

March 10

Mars Hill Snowmobile Club Hot Dot Roast     11-2 at #9 Lake….watch for signs

Fort Fairfield Club Breakfast   7-10 a.m. at the clubhouse off the Strickland Rd.

March 17

Pleasant Ridge Runners Breakfast at the clubhouse 7-11 a.m. (so close to St Patty’s day maybe they will have green eggs and corned beef hash…..but we are not sure !)

Once the teams are gone and the crews clean the snow off Main St most folks shop or hit a culinary hotspot and then head over to Lonesome Pine ski area and await the arrival of the 30 and 60 mile finishers.   Don’t forget Lonesome Pine offers some great downhill skiing and access to miles of Nordic ski trails so you can burn off some of those calories from the coffee and donuts while you wait for the mushers.     And of course there are some who travel to Portage to await the arrival of the 250 crew which pull into town usually late in the afternoon for their first checkpoint.

Sled dog racing is not for the feint of heart…..it is a lot of work and let me tell you that those folks are in shape.   If you never tried the sport, there are several dog sled owners that offer mushing adventures….you really should put that on your bucket list or if you are part of the younger generation…your YOLO list (you only live once!)

And you know as fun as it is to watch those dogs, which I believe are smiling as they work their way through the starting gauntlet, it is even more fun to share that front porch connection.   As you mingle around in the crowd you hear some hearty hellos and see the hugs and handshakes.   Up here in The County we call that a sense of community…….and that is why The County is a great place to be!

But let’s move on to snowmobiling !!  Wow….February raced past!   This week if you weren’t here sledding…….well let’s just say you missed a great week…..but not to worry….winter storming warning today with 10 new inches of fresh, great moisture laden snow to pack and the prognosis of great riding so make your reservations today!!!  This has to be the best time of year to ride……it is not 50 below, the winds have subsided and the days are longer…….the only problem I had this week was I had to keep checking signs because  there were so many people here from Pennslyvania…..I wanted to make sure I was still in Maine !!!

Cautionary Notes:

• IT IS      CAN AM WEEKEND……Mushers will be using ITS 92 and ITS 85 out of Ft Kent and      in Wallagrass and Eagle Lake as well as ITS 120 on the Eagle Lake end and      ITS 90 , the Buffalo Trail and the Carr Pond trail in the Portage      area.   Sledders PLEASE USE CAUTION  IN THESE AREAS…..the mushers are spread out all day and evening Saturday and then again throughout Sunday and possibly early Monday morning on the  Ft Kent end.   We have a great safety record this year so let’s work on keeping it that way
• Due to this storm groomers will be on the trails 24/7 so please use caution
• Groomers will roll but sledders need to remember when storms hit on Fridays it takes some projects two days to hit all  their system so check locally.
• Still some active logging on Rt 75 east of Squa Pan, on 81A in the Mapleton/Chapman area, on ITS 86 on the Ox Bow end
• REMEMBER…..moose and deer  roaming even more so use extreme caution.
• Please read and pay attention to signs !!!!

Trail News:

ITS 81     This route has been in pretty good shape considering the winter we have had especially in the eastern sections where all the projects have done a great job grooming…..today no reported problem areas.  Looking south Benedicta is reporting their section in excellent condition and it just stays that way!!

ITS 83     This trail was well used last week but all projects have done a great job keeping up.  Groomers will roll by Friday again after the snowfall with no reports of problem areas.

ITS 85      Couldn’t find a bad spot on this one but remember up north the Can Am will be using portions of the trail.  It is well marked and there will be course workers…..please adhere to the signs and their requests and reduce speed in these areas.  Please note that Ashland has indicated they have groomed 71A to the river however we are trying to confirm that Ox Bow has also groomed their section.  As soon as we receive word we will let you know so keep that in mind before you venture out.

ITS 86                  Both projects have been out.   Connector Rt 62A through to ITS 114 is not open  this winter.

ITS 88     This week we have had lots of good comments on this trail and groomers will be rolling again as soon as the snow let’s up a bit.

ITS 90    Groomed a couple of times this week so the base will be in good shape and groomers will roll between Friday and Saturday.   Remember the Can Am Race will be crossing ITS 90 in downtown Portage so reduce speed and follow the signs.  Also they will be running the Buffalo and Carr Pond Trails later in the afternoon so use caution.

ITS 92    Good shape this week with lots of traffic…..groomers will be rolling again late tonight and Friday as well as Saturday.

ITS 105   Good shape on the northern and the southern end…no problems.  Rt 94 off 105 in the northern area is groomed and in excellent shape as well as Rt 89 south to Caribou.   This provides a great loop off ITS 83.

ITS 110   groomed and in excellent shape from ITS 81 in Mattawamkeag to Drew Plantation

ITS 112   Good reports on this connector trail….no problems

ITS 114    Rockabema has this connector in great shape.

ITS 120 (Debouille)    Groomed Tuesday and will be again the end of this week.  Good shape, great views.  The Can Am race will be using a portion of this trail on the Eagle Lake end so please watch for signs, reduce speed and proceed with caution.

Soldier Pond   Great loop trail system……wonderful windy, wooded trails…….

Twin Lakes (Daigle) Good job…..the fields are in great shape no problems here

St. Agatha  Wow, these folks get lots of traffic but do a great job keeping trails in good condition……no problems.

Frenchville  Great views, great trails, well marked and in great shape

Caswell  They have their 100 east/west in great shape which provides some great loops off ITS 81

Culinary Delights and Special Events

January – March.

The Washburn Clubhouse and the Meduxneakeag Ramblers clubhouse are open for breakfasts for the season. Meduxneakeag is open for breakfast Saturdays from 6-9 a.m. and Washburn is open Saturdays for breakfast and lunch from 7-2 and Sundays from 7-12.

Stew Nights at the Presque Isle Clubhouse on Fridays !!

Homed cook meals at the St Francis Clubhouse on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

March 2

Can Am Crown Weekend with the Irving 250; the Willard Jalbert 60 and Allen’s /Pepsi 30 dog sled races.  Fun for the entire family !

St Francis Snowmobile Club will offer cabbage rolls at their clubhouse from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

March 9

Pleasant Ridge Runners Club Ride to the Blue Moose. Leave the clubhouse at 9 a.m.

March 17

Pleasant Ridge Runners Breakfast at the clubhouse 7-11 a.m. (so close to St Patty’s day maybe they will have green eggs and corned beef hash…..but we are not sure !)

Cautionary Notes:

• Drifting created lots of work for grooming      projects with some as tall as 12 feet.       Sledders will have to use caution especially in fields.  Remember what goes up must come down and      you can’t see the other side so please think before you approach drifted      areas.
• Still some active logging on Rt 75 east of Squa      Pan, on 81A in the Mapleton/Chapman area, on ITS 86 on the Ox Bow end
• This will be a busy weekend on trails everywhere so please reduce speed and keep right.
• REMEMBER…..moose and deer still roaming pretty freely this winter so use extreme caution.
• Some clubs have not replaced all their field markings so use caution especially when night riding.

Trail News:

ITS 81    From north to south all projects have been out grooming this week and will be recovering Wednesday and Thursday for the weekend.  No problem areas reported

ITS 83    From northern Aroostook to northern Penobscot Counties this trail has been groomed with good conditions including fields that finally have snow cover.   All projects reporting grooming commencing Wednesday and Thursday following the recent snow.

ITS 85      No problems here with lots of fresh snow this ribbon has been good for the better part of the season and all projects are reporting they are ready to hit the trails Wednesday and Thursday.

ITS 86                 Ox Bow and Houlton are reporting grooming on this section with about 1.5 miles of plowed road on the Ox Bow end due to logging but passable.   Connector Rt 62A through to ITS 114 is not open  this winter.

ITS 88    Everyone has been out since last week and will get out this Wednesday and Thursday with no problems reported.

ITS 90   All projects will be out Wednesday and Thursday to have this whole trail open for the weekend.  No problems reported at this time.

ITS 92   Ft Kent, St Francis and Allagash have been out before the storm and will be out Wednesday and Thursday.

ITS 105   Van Buren has been out and all projects south have been working this week and will be running the next two days to have the trail in good shape for the weekend

ITS 110 no reports

ITS 112 Recent snows have improved conditions on both ends with projects ready to roll Wednesday and Thursday

ITS 114   Improvements here throughout the system and like all other projects they will be rolling Wednesday and Thursday..

ITS 120 (Debouille)    Groomed earlier and Allagash and Eagle Lake will be out Wednesday and Thursday.

Soldier Pond   all trails are in good shape and they are rolling Wednesday and Thursday

Twin Lakes (Daigle) Fields are in good shape and they were heading out late Wednesday and Thursday

St. Agatha  Lots of sleds….they have been grooming daily and are rolling Wednesday and Thursday

Frenchville  They were on their trails Wednesday packing and getting ready for the weekend.

Culinary Delights and Special Events

January – March.

The Washburn Clubhouse and the Meduxneakeag Ramblers clubhouse are open for breakfasts for the season. Meduxneakeag is open for breakfast Saturdays from 6-9 a.m. and Washburn is open Saturdays for breakfast and lunch from 7-2 and Sundays from 7-12.

Stew Nights at the Presque Isle Clubhouse on Fridays !!

Homed cook meals at the St Francis Clubhouse on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

February 23

Steak  Supper   at the Sly Brook Clubhouse 4:30-7:30.  By vehicle it’s off the Sly Brook Rd.

Radar Runs on Munson Pond in Ft Fairfield sponsored by the Frontier Fish and Game Club

DINNER ON THE RUN, Ashland SC. Begins at 4:30p.m. at Doug and Danielle Chasse’s. If you have questions or need directions call Mary Ellen 207-435-6649.

February 26

Club Ride, Benedicta Snowgang, FMI call Jim at 207-365-7276

 March 2

Can Am Crown Weekend with the Irving 250; the Willard Jalbert 60 and Allen’s /Pepsi 30 dog sled races.  Fun for the entire family !

St Francis Snowmobile Club will offer cabbage rolls at their clubhouse from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

March 9

Pleasant Ridge Runners Club Ride to the Blue Moose.  Leave the clubhouse at 9 a.m.

March 17

Pleasant Ridge Runners Breakfast at the clubhouse  7-11 a.m.  (so close to St Patty’s day maybe they will have green eggs and corned beef hash…..but we are not sure !)

For the non motorized set there will be lots to do this weekend.   Friday bring the younger set to the Aroostook Youth Ski Festival from 8:30-12:30 at the Caribou High School Ski Trails……fun, games, prizes and special events.  Saturday is Take It Outside Winter Family Fun Day at Aroostook State Park……come out for the fun and see the LL Bean Bootmobile on it’s first trip to The County. This Sunday Caribou will feature their February Frolic with two Nordic Race/Tours a freestyle event at 11 a.m. at the Caribou Ski Trails at the Caribou High School and a classical event  at 1:30 p.m. at the Caribou Ski Trails located off Rt 161 at the Caribou Country Club.  Lunch will be available at the Country Club and there will be a radar fun run for children beginning at noon.    Snowshoeing is popular as well as some great downhill skiing and snowboarding at Big Rock in Mars Hill……so if you are coming to one of the top rated areas in North American to snowmobile……bring the family for lots of outdoor fun!

This weekend is full of fun events in The County for the whole family.    Moosestompers Weekend in Houlton has plenty of activities for snowmobilers including a parade, bonfire, and breakfast  but you may want to climb off your sled and try Human Curling……all I can tell you is you don’t need equipment but what you do need is the ability to be….well…..moosechievous and have a little brawn!  The events will be going on pretty much all day Saturday and Sunday.  Call 532-4216 for more info and updates.

Further north the Madawaska Snowmobile Club is sure to satisfy your need for speed as they host the 3^rd annual USCC East Madawaska 100 Cross Country Snowmobile Races.   Again this is developed as a family event….lots to look at , lots of food and an action packed stunt show featuring the RaveX  freestyle motorsport show.  Log on to www.madawaskasnowmobileclub.org for more info.

And of course what would it be without culinary delights…….there are a lot around but the special one this weekend is the Caribou Snowmobile Clubs annual Hot Dog Roast…….by sled it is right at the intersection of ITS 105 and 83 near the Rt 161 road crossing in Stockholm.   So get there by sled or car……mmmmm I can smell those onions cooking!

I suppose now is the time to get to the most important part of this narrative……the trail report…..so here goes:

Cautionary Notes:

• There is still ice especially      in low lying areas and on the flat, hard packed surfaces.   It will take you a bit longer to stop      your sled so keep that in mind as you approach road crossings or if you      are group riding.
• Logging still exists and you      will have to keep that in mind because there are logging trucks operating      seven days a week.  Specific areas      are listed below
• And yes, believe it……some      groomers have hit water and some slush……there is still open water on      rivers, brooks and streams!
• This will be a busy weekend on      trails everywhere so please reduce speed and keep right.
• REMEMBER…..moose and deer can      roam pretty freely this winter so use extreme caution.

Trail News:

ITS 81     Projects have been out and you will find some boney spots in fields but for the most part groomers have worked some magic.  Once you get south of Mars Hill and head west to the 85 intersection snow cover is good.

ITS 83    Projects have been out from the valley south to Houlton fields in the central region have limited snow cover but they are passable just not all groomable (if there is such a word) west of Sherman snow cover improves and is fine heading south again

ITS 85     From Ft Kent south to Ox Bow and beyond this trail is in good shape with some lean cover north of Masardis and a few other places north but has had a lot of traffic and most sledders find it in good shape. Further south the snow cover is excellent.

ITS 86   No one has rolled on this one yet this week but it is rideable however you will hit logging on the Ox Bow end.  Ox Bow was going to attempt a reroute of sorts and expected to have that completed by the weekend.   Connector Rt 62A through to ITS 114 is not open and may not be this winter.

ITS 88  Projects have been out or will be out by weeks end and are reporting good conditions again with lean cover in fields

ITS 90   Sledders will find this trail with good cover but some ice and slush on Salmon Brook just east of the 105 intersection.   Heading east between Perham and Ft Fairfield/Limestone fields are lean but passable.

ITS 92   No problems here.  Ft Kent, St Francis and Allagash have been out with just a few reports of ice.

ITS 105  From Van Buren south to Washburn…..primo.  Further south limited grooming with ice and bare fields but they are working on it and Aroostook County flurries should help fill in the voids by the weekend.

ITS 110 no reports

ITS 112 Patten area is good with a few lean areas but moving west conditions improve.

ITS 114   The south western sections in the Shin Pond area are good.

ITS 120 (Debouille)    No problems

Soldier Pond   they have worked some magic and will continue grooming as snow accumulates

Twin Lakes (Daigle) Good job working magic with some lean spots.

St. Agatha  Grooming and capturing every inch of snow building fields back up but good riding

Frenchville  Took care of their icing.  They are grooming and have worked some magic.

Culinary Delights and Special Events

January – March. The Washburn Clubhouse and the Meduxneakeag Ramblers clubhouse are open for breakfasts for the season. Meduxneakeag is open for breakfast Saturdays from 6-9 a.m. and Washburn is open Saturdays for breakfast and lunch from 7-2 and Sundays from 7-12.  And don’t forget Stew Nights at the Presque Isle Clubhouse on Fridays !!  Also homed cook meals at the St Francis Clubhouse on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Feb 15-17   It’s Moosestompers Weekend in Houlton.   Lots of fun, food and more for the whole family. Log on to www.greaterhoulton.com

February 16th

Madawaska will be hosting the USCC East X Country Snowmobile 100 Race log onto www.madawaskasnowmobileclub.com for more info.

Caribou Snowmobile Annual Hot Dog Roast at Axel Siding at the intersection of Rt 105 and ITS 83 in Stockholm off vehicular Rt 161

PIE AUCTION, DANCE, Held by the Portage Lakers SC. Begins 7p.m., Dean’s Motor Lodge. FMI: Betty Benson 207-435-6872. www.portagelakerssnowmobileclub.org.

February 17^th

Radar Runs on Munson Pond in Ft Fairfield sponsored by the Frontier Fish and Game Club

February 23

Steak  Supper   at the Sly Brook Clubhouse 4:30-7:30.  By vehicle it’s off the Sly Brook Rd.

March 2

Can Am Crown Weekend with the Irving 250; the Willard Jalbert 60 and Allen’s /Pepsi 30 dog sled races.  Fun for the entire family !

And don’t forget……if some of the folks prefer non motorized activities we have some of the best Nordic ski trail in Maine, two world class venues, one in Presque Isle and one in Ft. Kent and then nearly every small town in The County has local Nordic trails. Snowshoeing is popular as well as some great downhill skiing and snowboarding at Big Rock in Mars Hill……so if you are coming to one of the top rated areas in North American to snowmobile……bring the family for lots of outdoor fun!

Articles in the newspaper last weekend concerning the loss of continuity to the trail system as a result of unseasonably warm temps and subsequently the impact of that loss on the local economy certainly stirred up some comments and raised the question of the need for all of us to understand and differentiate between local riding opportunities and what our visiting population’s expectations are.

The one thing we all can agree on is February is typically a busy month in The County for snowmobile tourism;  they come from Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut and even the sunny south…..Florida.   When they roll in their expectation is to cover as much of The County as they can in their 5-10 day stay.  They want to stop by Two Rivers Restaurant in Allagash, or experience ployes at the Sporting Club or wing night at Lakeview.  They want to stop for lunch at Rosette’s or Al’s Diner or they want to savor the unbelievable portions of home cooking at the Blue Moose or Grammy’s.  Maybe they want to catch the night life at Eureka Hall or the Inns and Convention Centers.  Maybe it’s the family atmosphere at Shin Pond Village.  Or maybe they look forward to stopping by the Meduxneakeag Ramblers Clubhouse or the Washburn Clubhouse for breakfast or the Presque Isle Clubhouse for stew night Friday night.  Or maybe they want to take in some of the great views along the Border Trail or experience some of the great riding in southeastern parts of The County

Whatever their culinary pleasure or entertainment pleasure, they want to get in 100-200 plus mile days and cover as much of The County as possible.   What the recent rain and warm temps created was a situation where their options became extremely limited which is why many of them canceled or temporarily postponed their visits.

Unfortunately in tough economic times, we can lose our focus and forget what the expectations of our visitors are.   Although we are enthusiastic about our local conditions we sometimes  give out information that creates a false positive…..not intentionally….but based on our need to draw that potential tourist to our local region which typically is not sufficient to meet the visitors needs and when they arrive and find the limitations it discourages them from returning in the future.

The competition for tourism dollars is tough.  If we truly wish to support and expand tourism in The County and fight to make it the destination  for snowmobile enthusiasts across the country, we truly need to learn to differentiate between what we as locals will settle for and what our visitors expectations are.

For now, let’s just hope that Mother Nature aligns herself with the seasons and opens all County connections for our visitors to enjoy…..hopefully as you are reading this we are getting our first big February snow !!

View from my office Tuesday!!

The good news is that  if you really want to snowmobile the folks from Shin Pond, Millinocket, and the Jo Mary region will attempt to groom Friday night once it cools down.   Their cover was a bit heavier and withstood the rain although there will be some lean areas and some water holes…..but there is still white on the ground so call ahead.

Looking ahead there is some talk of snow maybe Sunday and again the middle of next week.  Don’t give up yet…………We will keep you posted.

For now think about this……outdoor winter sports, especially snowmobiling contribute significantly to Maines winter economy.   We have struggled over the last two seasons although, despite the lack of snow across the State last winter, The County had awesome trails last winter but when it is 60 degrees in Bangor who is thinking about starting a snowmobile!!

When we think about Maine, pretty much all our major industries are weather dependent and whether you believe in Al Gore’s theories or not, winters have changed significantly.   What were typically 12-14 week seasons are shrinking to 6-8….is that the new norm??   Who knows.

Heard a cute story about winters past the other day.   Some of us “older” folks were discussing winters past and how high the snow banks were and drifts, etc……but then someone said….yeah but the telephone poles were shorter………and you know what….they were !!!   So much for the old days stories ……..

For now, let’s just suck it in and get in a unified snow dance mode.  The Farmers Almanac has some great forecasts for February!

While we are waiting for snow remember the following fundraisiers and activities…..snow or not they still need your support.

February 2  Supper on the Run and a Poker Run held by the Portage Lakers……..they will adapt !

February 9  Andy Santerre Ride and auction and dinner…..log onto www.amhc.org for more info

February 9 Fort Kent will have their steak feed at the Senior Center beginning at 5 p.m.

February 10 Fort Fairfield will host a breakfast from 7-10 at their clubhouse off the Strickland Road

February 15-17 is Moosestompers Weekend in Houlton

February 16 is the annual Caribou Snowmobile Club Hotdog Roast in Stockholm at the intersection of ITS 105 and ITS 83 adjacent to vehicular route 161

February 16 Madawaska is gearing up for the USCC East X Country Snowmobile 100 Race

February 17 Frontier Fish and Game Club will be hosting Radar Runs on Monson Pond in Ft Fairfield

And don’t forget Saturday breakfasts at the Meduxneakeag Clubhouse and Saturday and Sunday breakfasts and lunch at the Washburn Clubhouse

Support them folks…..they are what keeps snowmobiling alive and well in The County

By the way, the cold weather and limited traffic have left trails in great shape……..of course the wind has scoured some of the fields, especially further east but all major trails in the system are open and groomed and ready for the weekend.

CAUTIONARY NOTES:  Snowmobiling can be great fun but remember you never know what might be around the corner or over the hill so here are some notes to help you be safe:

• Cold temps can mean catastrophe if you don’t go out prepared.   Make sure not to ride alone.  Always tell someone where you are headed.  If nothing else bring matches and flashlights and of course your cell phone.   Even when you don’t get full bars, text messages usually go through and typically you can always reach emergency 911.  Most important pay attention and know where you are….it could save your life !!
• Fort Kent and the Maine Dept of Transportation have been working to reroute traffic off the dike near the construction work on the international bridge. Sledders are cautioned to follow signs that will lead them to Main St. Keep right and reduce speed.
• There is lots of logging throughout The County remember it is their land, we are invited guests so please heed signs and proceed with caution.
• MOOSE !!!!!   They are out there and we have already had moose/sled accidents so please expect to see them, reduce speed, especially on corners and during evening hours
• Despite cold temps, ice can still be deceiving so make sure you check locally and try not to go off marked sections no matter what part of The County you are in……there is still open water in places !!

TRAIL CONDITIONS

ITS 81   Has really been good all the way through.  A few boney spots in fields on the easterly sections but moving west from Mars Hill the trail is in good condition all the way to the ITS 85 intersection.   Remember the #9 Lake Trail is closed due to logging but 70A is groomed and in fair condition.  Heading south towards Masardis and Shin Pond there is plenty of snow and 81 is groomed and in excellent condition.

ITS 83   Once again you will find good conditions starting up north with boney spots in fields but nothing that would slow you down significantly.  Heading southwest out of Houlton you are good all the way down into the Katahdin Region.  Trail 64 from Linneus to Oakfield is open now as well as Trail #9 creating some loops in the area.

ITS 85  You will find good conditions throughout the region but remember there is intermittent logging in areas along the way.  Around Masardis, you will find 1.5 miles of plowed road near Ashland and between Portage and Eagle Lake there are active ops, one just south of Red River Bridge and Birch River Bridge.  This one is very active with logging trucks and will be active until mid February so make a note to yourself! Be advised that there have been several reroutes south of Ashland so follow signs and watch for the logging ops mentioned above. .  Rt 71D is open as a side route to Grand Lake Sebois and the lake is marked.  Remember 71A remains closed and probably won’t be open this season.

ITS 86 is now open and groomed all the way through however you will find 2 miles of plowed road for a logging  operation.   Connector Rt 62A through to ITS 114 is not open and may not be this winter.

ITS 88 is open, groomed with no problems outside of some lean cover in open areas due to wind.  A note that there is logging on Rt 81A

ITS 90  is in good shape from Portage east although it get lean in fields heading towards ITS 81 but they are rideable.

ITS 92 from Ft Kent to Allagash is groomed but remember it ends in Allagash  but Allagash does have a loop open to Glazier Lake……nice side trail. Remember the last gas is in St Francis for trip planning. And of course no…..it is not open to Escourt.

ITS 105  is open and groomed and in good condition all the way through including the pipeline section which Linneus has open…..it is narrow in sections and like most trails there are some face slappers still lingering.  Up north Caribou has opened their Rt 89 to Rt 94 and Rt 105.

ITS 110 no problems here it is groomed along with trails  # 1,  #2 and #3

ITS 112 is open and groomed but if you rode it in the past please be advised that it has been rerouted through many pasture areas so please stay on the marked trail.

ITS 114  is open and groomed but the section from ITS 83 in Dyer Brook to the ITS 81/85 connection is narrow like other sections with some whips and face slappers.

ITS 120 (Debouille)   No problems here.  Groomed and in good shape.   Keep gas in mind when you plan your routes.  Eagle Lake has gas but you won’t find any more until St. Francis.

Soldier Pond  They have been grooming and the trails are in good shape, again like others with some lean spots.

Twin Lakes (Daigle) has groomed and their sections are in good shape.

St. Agatha  has their smaller trails groomed.

Frenchville is groomed….again……wind continues to cause drifting in open areas but the trails are in good shape.

Culinary Delights and Special Events

January – March. The Washburn Clubhouse and the Meduxneakeag Ramblers clubhouse are open for breakfasts for the season. Meduxneakeag is open for breakfast Saturdays from 6-9 a.m. and Washburn is open Saturdays for breakfast and lunch from 7-2 and Sundays from 7-12.

January 26  Remember the Carter Brook Snowbirds……well they are coming back and would like to invite you to a Spaghetti Feed Saturday starting at 11 a.m. at the clubhouse.

February 2

SUPPER ON THE RUN/TWILIGHT POKER RUN, held by the Portage Lakers SC, in Portage. Begins 6p.m. FMI: Beth Hummel, 207-435-2327. www.portagelakerssnowmobileclub.org.

February 9th

9th annual Andy Santerre run which begins at Griffeth Ford in Caribou. Log on to www.amhc.org for more info

Ft Kent Steak Feed beginning at 5 p.m. at the Senior Center

Feb 15-17   It’s Moosestompers Weekend in Houlton.   Lots of fun, food and more for the whole family. Log on to www.greaterhoulton.com

February 10^th   Fort Fairfield Club Breakfast at the clubhouse off the Strickland Rd.   7-10 a.m.

February 16th

Madawaska will be hosting the USCC East X Country Snowmobile 100 Race log onto www.madawaskasnowmobileclub.com for more info.

Caribou Snowmobile Annual Hot Dog Roast at Axel Siding at the intersection of Rt 105 and ITS 83 in Stockholm off vehicular Rt 161

PIE AUCTION, DANCE, Held by the Portage Lakers SC. Begins 7p.m., Dean’s Motor Lodge. FMI: Betty Benson 207-435-6872. www.portagelakerssnowmobileclub.org.

February 17  Frontier Fish and Game Club in Fort Fairfield will host Radar Runs on Munson Pond.   More info in a bit.

And don’t forget……if some of the folks prefer non motorized activities we have some of the best Nordic ski trail in Maine, two world class venues, one in Presque Isle and one in Ft. Kent and then nearly every small town in The County has local Nordic trails. Snowshoeing is popular as well as some great downhill skiing and snowboarding at Big Rock in Mars Hill……so if you are coming to one of the top rated areas in North American to snowmobile……bring the family for lots of outdoor fun!