SNOWMOBILE ENFORCEMENT STEPPED UP FOR RACE WEEKEND, NO ACCIDENTS REPORTED

Officers made contact with more than 500 snowmobilers from several states

 

Feb. 7, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE — Conservation officers from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources stepped up snowmobile patrols in the area surrounding this past weekend’s running of the International 500 Snowmobile Race in Sault Ste. Marie.

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“These patrols helped ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for the several thousand visitors and residents who took to the trails,” said Lt. Eugene “Skip” Hagy, DNR district law supervisor for the eastern Upper Peninsula. “Patrols began Friday afternoon and ended Sunday morning.”

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The DNR Law Enforcement Division focused the patrol efforts of its officers and allocation of resources on specific areas, enforcing safety and sound violations, in what is known as an “enhanced snowmobile enforcement effort.”

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A fresh blanket of snow and cold temperatures made for good snowmobile trail conditions in Chippewa County over the weekend.

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Conservation officers made over 500 contacts with visitors during their snowmobile patrol efforts, the majority of which were positive interactions, Hagy said.

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During these contacts, officers answered questions, gave directions, advised riders of trail conditions and discussed operating tips to help promote safe snowmobiling.

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“Safety on the trails is paramount, and it’s our top priority,” Hagy said. “With stepped-up patrols, our goal is to provide a safe experience for everyone.”

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Hagy said there were no deaths or known accidents reported in the enhanced patrol area over the race weekend.