Dam snowmobilers out of gas

Snowmobile riders who enjoy zooming across the many acres of snow and ice around the North Springfield Flood Control Dam can no longer include stops at a nearby gas station to fill up.

In winters past, snowmobiles getting their tanks filled were a common sight weekends at the Mobile gas station in North Springfield. Now it's an Irving gas station and the property across the highway is the new headquarters of Willow Farm Pet Services.

Housed in the big red barn that was there when they bought the property, the business just recently added dog kennel facilities which include spacious fenced in outdoor exercise yards. No longer are the loud snowmobiles allowed to go through the property. It could spook animals who are already likely nervous from being away from home for either boarding or grooming.

Riding along the edge of the road that connects the dam to Rt 106 is frowned upon by traffic authorities.

There are snowmobile trails that lead to gas stations in Chester, Ludlow, Downers Four Corners and Ascutney but these could be bad options for those low on gas in North Springfield.

For almost 40 years Vermont has been home to a snowmobile trail system that now totals over 5000 miles.

Vermont makes it easy to go snowmobiling, setting the standard for well-marked trails, readable maps, usually easy access to fuel stops, food and accommodations. Convenient trailheads mean that snowmobilers can hook up to trails anywhere in the State, and they'll find the best-groomed trails as snow permits.

The Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (VAST), together with more than 150 community-based local clubs, maintains Vermont's trail network. Over 120 groomers work to assure smooth riding. The local clubs hold friendly events every weekend during the entire winter ranging from pancake breakfasts, chicken barbecues and spaghetti dinners to charity rides, radar runs and snocross races.