“There for You!”
The OFSC Trail Patrol Program commenced in 1983 at the inception of the user-pay system. Trail Patrol members volunteer their time and the use of their personal equipment to be snow-mobile ambassadors. These volunteers are clearly identifiable by their Trail Patrol vest, and each member also carries their Trail Patrol ID issued by the OFSC.
Trail Patrol members patrol during the week, weekends and evenings. Patrols generally consist of two Trail Patrol members but occasionally include up to four to eight members. The primary function of Trail Patrol is public awareness and safety. Trail Patrol member’s duties are centered around activity on OFSC Prescribed Trails and may be summarized into four broad categories:
- On-Trail Support: Trail Patrol members provide on-trail support in the form of maps, safety equipment, directions, help and updated information on trail conditions.
- Safety Promotion: Members promote safe riding by reminding snowmobilers of safe riding practice.
- Risk Management: Trail Patrol members actively identify and report unsafe or unusual conditions, remove branches and report safety issues to the club.
- Landowner Agent: As the agent for the landowner, encouraging permit compliance.
Trail Patrol members, across the district, work closely with the Ottawa Police Service and the Ontario Provincial Police to promote education and enforcement.
Members of the Trail Patrol will be out again this season checking for permits, providing assistance, information and generally making sledders feel welcome on the trails. Our goal is to ensure the trails are safe and to promote the positive image of snowmobiling.
Contact Dave Tubbe, District Trail Patrol Coordinator for any questions or to become a TP member. Contact him at 613-794-9595 or trailpatrol@ucsr.ca.
