b'VAST NEWSSummer 2019VERMONT ASSOCIATIONTRAIL TIPS - KEEP THE CLUBS INFORMEDBy Mike MutascioOh, to wake up to fresh fallen snow! Everyone is hopeful for a season of great riding ahead. Yet our powdery adventures require more than just snow and groomed trails. Snowmobilers always need to be alert for the unexpected. Last season, I noticed a loose board as I cruised over a small bridge. It wasnt bad at first. However, I rode the same bridge after the heavy weekend traffic.Yikes, the damage was more severe! Two weeks later, my group came across a pickup truck that was ditched, partially blocking the trail.Then there was that unreal powdercontacting a club that wasnt my own.to know which club is responsible for ride when I oops ended up in anLuckily, after chatting with so manyeach trail:active logging yard. A fresh plow linefolks on the trails and at events, my As the VAST intersection signage had obscured the trailhead and signagecomfort level has improved. So yes,standard evolves, more clubs are behind me. Finally, my sled brokemy four different stories went to fouradding a logo to their signs.down at the end of the season. Luckily,different clubs. Im glad I let them I was able to pull it to the side of theknow.Using the VAST online map, simply trail and flag the hazard. Snowmobilers are the eyes and earsclick on a trail and the club will be As each mishap unfolded, I keptthat lead to a great experience forlisted.Select the [CLUBS] layer and asking myself, Should I contact aothers. Take the time to inform a clubthe yellow icons include contact club and let them know? I rememberif you observe a condition that mightinformation.a long time ago feeling a little uneasybe unsafe. VAST has been improving If you have a county map, check to communications and making it easiersee if the trails are color-coded by club. The www.vasttrails.org mobile view displays the club when the [Route Number] and [Clubs] layers are selected.Just tap the trail icons. The VAST Trails Mobile App identifies clubs if you select the [Trail Markers] layer and tap the icon.If a phone symbol is visible, tap again to call the club. Not interested in making a phone call?Using the VAST website, select [CLUBS] to access club email or even a Facebook page.Stay in touch with all the VAST clubs. It matters. We all play a part in keeping the trails safe for a great ride See something? Say something! If you are unable to resolve a trail hazard on your own,ahead!please report it to the club that maintains the trail you are on. 2 | Snowmobile VERMONT'