b'VAST DirectionBy VAST Executive Director Cindy Locke VERMONT ASSOCIATIONDuring the winter months, I spend a lot of time watching what is happening in the Vermont Statehouse. Sometimes it is in-person and sometimes its on their livestreams. Changes in the statehouse happen fast. It is important to know what is happening, as well as how and when to get involved for the betterment of snowmobiling in Vermont and protecting our landowners rights. In addition to monitoring it myself, VAST has a full-time lobbyist which is vital for our organization, landowners, volunteers and members. Lamoille Valley Rail Trail (LVRT) grand opening of Sections 1A and 1B (2015). L to R: Vermont Senator Patrick Leahy; Don Balcom, VASTs LVRT Campaign Manager; Cindy While most people have someLocke, VAST Executive Director and Vermont Governor Phil Scott.understanding of how the legislative process works, most just rely on thoseIf you would like to get moreregulatory processes, law enforcement, that we vote for to know and doinvolved, or ever have questions aboutsafety, transportation, carbon what is best for us and act accordingly.legislation, or about the legislativereduction, current use programs, and But those that we elect need directionprocess and what you can do as amuch more.and our help to make sure they haveVermont voter, please do not hesitate to all the information they may need toreach out to me. Topics often include:Fond Regards, do what is best for us and represent ustrail use and building, changes to land well. regulations through ACT 250 or other Often when bills are introduced or being worked on, the entire bill will not affect us, but there could be language in there that could affect us. This means that every day during the legislative session (Jan.-May), we are involved and watching different committees in the House and Senate at for a variety of reasons.So when you are at an event in your town or county, or even shopping in the local grocery store and you run into an elected legislator or senator, make your presence known. Let them know that snowmobiling in Vermont, outdoor recreation and landowners are important to keeping our vital industry healthy. Tell them that we are watching and listening and always available to talk about ways we can assist them.'