From MPP Graydon Smith:
“Recently, it has come to my attention that there is considerable concern amongst snowmobilers and local businesses about the District of Muskoka potentially opposing a request, presented by the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile clubs, that would allow trails to operate as they have for decades in our area.
As someone who grew up in Muskoka riding those trails often, and as someone whose parents’ small business benefited from the economic benefits that snowmobiling provides our area, I’m hopeful that District Council will be able to support a direction that allows the continuation of an activity that helps define us as Muskokans.
I have always and will always support the snowmobile clubs and snowmobilers of Parry Sound-Muskoka. Snowmobiling is a part of our cultural fabric, and I’ll do everything I can to ensure its continued success and viability.
Clearly, winter is off to a roaring start. Let’s hope we can all take advantage of what we have been given to have a fun winter that makes the most of our incredible, unsurpassed trails.”
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City folks want to come up here and change the fabric of Canadian Society it’s gut-wrenching and just brutal. I live in Ontario now but I’m from out west and my father had one of the first snowmobiles brought to Saskatchewan from Quebec by train in the 1960s. Snowmobiling is a way of life in Canada and for people to oppose any OFSC proposals should be ashamed of themselves.
I think people are finally beginning to realize that our winters are not what they used to be and never will be again. Three feet of snow dumped in a matter of hours one week and two weeks later rain and spring like temperatures is our new reality. Address that Mr. Smith. Oh wait, does your party even believe in climate change?
There is more inuendo than fact in this article. Where is the background on who has actually proposed what?
Insurance might be ‘part of life’ but I don’t want to pay for anyone’s motorised sports activities on public lands through my already high taxes. Besides already we pay the tens of millions in health and medical costs. .Sport is in the eye of the beholder.. Cross country skiing provides good exercise and a healthy peaceful visit with nature. No noise, no pollution and no property damage.,
The government n teetotaler are ruining what we spent years building the millions the government got they forget the minute is cost them a cent half of these business would not be here if snowmobiling did not help them get thru winter shame on them I groomed 8 years n volunteer countless hours
The fact the OFSC waited until this late in 2024 is interesting. Also their lack of transparency on the the website for all snowmobile riders wondering what is going on.
Nobody cares about comments against snowmobiling or whatever your activity is besides this. We bring “billions” of dollars to your community so show some compassion and thankfulness. We are saving you tax dollars and keeping your small businesses working and providing for their families.
No go do your snow dance and be happy!! LOL
People who don’t want to snowmobile don’t need to snowmobile. Cross country sking is fun but can’t compare to snowmobiling, insurance is part of life and can be afforded.
Let’s stop the war on motorized recreational activities. Live and let live.
The Province saddled local municipalities with all kinds of insurance liabilities. The Dorset Tower is a prime example. This is just another and a major one at that. Snowmobiling is inherently risky and dangerous.. That’s a simple fact. No insurer wants millions in claim payouts. The local taxpayers can’t afford premiums that cover these payouts. Local landowners don’t want the hassles and liabilities. Hence the current problem. Maybe try cross country skiing. Healthier and better for the environment.