Fall 2018 | 45 By William Thomas Sr. The first weekend of fall is a special time for many around the state because, as the temps start to drop and the overnight low starts to dip into the thirties, we know the anticipated snowmobile season is just around the corner. Will it be an early start as we all hope, or will we have to wait until mid- January for that first ride? Either way, the volunteer work that happens in the fall sets up the season for all. The sound of a babbling brook trailside and the smell of two-cycle oil from a buzzing chain saw are always welcome soundstomyearsthistimeofyear.Thosesoundsareinperfect harmony in the stillness of the woods as trails are cleared for the coming season. Taking part in this annual ritual can be very rewarding and is very much needed throughout the states and private owned land trail systems. Several weekends during the pre-season, a handful of folks in clubs around the state head out to do what must be done to maintain over 4,700 miles of trails that make up the VAST trail system. In many cases, it is the same folks that find their way to volunteer year after year so that others can enjoy the miles of smiles that make up snowmobiling in Vermont. Just because you live out of town or do not know the key volunteers of the club or are not a member does not mean you cannot take part in these critical tasks. Many clubs have contact information available so that you can reach out and let them know that you are willing to help and take part in some form of volunteering. You will find that most Why YOU Should Volunteer! clubs trail coordinator will welcome you reaching out and suggest where your help could be most needed. Maybe it’s a section of trail that you ride often or near where you stay when riding that area, or near your home, or second home or camp. Every little bit will help make the riding in that area better for everyone. More volunteers are always needed and welcomed! The tasks at hand are many, including bridge building and repairs, trail clearing, stop signs and directional signs to be installed. Maybe your club needs help in other areas like fund raising, membership drive or social media posting? Volunteering does not always require you to be out on the trails but can be done from your own home. Remember they are your trails also and your voice and efforts help make an impact for the good of all. To think that statewide hundreds of volunteers make this possible for the thousands of riders that use our trail system is amazing. Many have done this for ten, fifteen, even twenty plus years and with little thanks or appreciation, but year after year they show up this time of year to take care of what must be done so that everyone can enjoy the trails. Don’t let another year go by without getting involved. It is easier than you think. We urge everyone to be part of the whole process of the great lifestyle and sport of enjoying the snow and countryside few get a chance to see except by a snowmobile! Have a great fun and safe season, and remember, giving a little bit of your time will be greatly appreciated by so many.