Recreational trails across our country are a key part of our outdoor heritage. They enrich the health and enjoyment of countless families, tourists and sports enthusiasts across Canada.

Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada is investing $25 million to improve over 450 recreational trails across Canada. This investment in Canada's outdoor heritage will help to quickly create jobs, support local economies, and attract tourists. The Government's contribution will be matched by the National Trails Coalition (NTC) and its partners. Cost-matching will occur on a project-by-project basis.

To provide the most rapid economic benefit possible during this challenging economic time, funding will go to shovel-ready projects that are set to break ground and be completed in 2009-2010.

The program is being administered by the NTC. The funds will be used to build, upgrade and renew recreational trails for a number of non-motorized and motorized uses, including hiking, walking, cycling, equestrian, cross-country skiing, ATVs, off-road motorcycles and snowmobiles. The NTC is responsible for reviewing and approving applications.

The NTC was formed in 2007 to bring trail-based organizations together in a collaborative manner to build, maintain and promote trail use across Canada. The NTC's member organizations are longstanding groups with considerable expertise in trail-building and funding administration.

The NTC is a non-profit organization whose member organizations provide stewardship of much of Canada's trail infrastructure. The NTC is composed of three not-for-profit organizations: the Canadian Trails Federation, the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council and the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations. Membership in these national organizations is drawn from subsidiary groups in each province or from the private sector through the contributions of manufacturers and distributors of trail-related vehicles, products and services. Virtually all forms of trail-based activity are represented under the Trails Coalition banner.

Additional information can be found on the National Trails Coalition website: www.ntc-canada.ca or www.cns-canada.ca.

---

Federal Government & NTC News Release!!! July 30th 2009

Canada's Economic Action Plan Funds Over 500 Recreational Trail Projects

Ottawa, July 30, 2009 - Work is set to begin across Canada on hundreds of outdoor trails, which will help to create jobs and enhance the country's national trail system. The Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), and Terry Norman, National Coordinator, National Trails Coalition (NTC) today announced that over 500 trail projects will benefit from the Government's $25 million investment in recreational trails, as part of the Government's Economic Action Plan.

"As part of Canada's Economic Action Plan, Canada is proud to provide the first payment of $12.5 million to the National Trails Coalition to get construction underway," said Minister of State Lunn. "By partnering with the National Trails Coalition we are boosting local economies, creating jobs, getting shovels in the ground and providing Canadians with better quality trails."

The funds will be used to create, upgrade and sustain recreational trails throughout Canada. The first payment of $12.5 million is part of the Government of Canada's $25 million commitment that will be matched by the NTC and their provincial, territorial, municipal or private funding partners for eligible projects.

Applications for this funding were received between May 26, 2009 and June 26, 2009. With the intake for this funding now complete and projects approved, this first payment to the National Trails Coalition will allow work on trails to begin right away and generate economic activity in Canada's construction sector.

"This $25 million funding initiative has, for the first time in trail development history, made it possible for a growing network of multiple-use trails to be built across Canada," stated Terry Norman, National Coordinator for the NTC. Norman added, "with over 500 shovel-ready trail projects approved for completion by March 2010, the NTC believes this is the first step in providing trail infrastructure and tourism products that will be used by millions of Canadians and visitors to Canada."

The NTC is made up of the following non-profit organizations and their provincial/territorial affiliates: Canadian Trails Federation, Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations and the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council. For additional information, visit www.ntc-canada.ca.

The Government of Canada's 2009 Economic Action Plan is accelerating and expanding the existing federal investment of $33 billion in infrastructure across Canada with almost $12 billion in new infrastructure stimulus funding over the next two years.

In June 2009, Prime Minister Stephen Harper was awarded the highest honour granted by the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO) for delivering on his commitment to expand and improve trail infrastructure through the Economic Action Plan.

To learn more about Canada's Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca. For more information on the Government of Canada's investments in infrastructure, visit www.creatingjobs.gc.ca

Contact: Chris Day, Press Secretary
Office of Canada's Minister of Transport and Infrastructure
Tel: 613-991-0700

Michelle Yao, Press Secretary
Office of Minister of State Gary Lunn
Tel: 819-934-1131
michelle.yao@pch.gc.ca

Infrastructure Canada
Tel: 613-948-1148

Terry Norman, National Trails Coalition
Tel: 902-429-8810
Fax: 902-429-0287
tnorman@ntc-canada.ca
www.ntc-canada.ca

----- Backgrounder -----
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA-NATIONAL TRAILS COALITION PARTNERSHIP TO EXPAND AND IMPROVE TRAIL INFRASTRUCTURE Recreational trails across our country are a key part of our outdoor heritage. They enrich the health and enjoyment of countless families, tourists and sports enthusiasts across Canada.

Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada is investing $25 million to improve 514 recreational trails across Canada. This investment in Canada's outdoor heritage will help to quickly create jobs, support into local economies, and attract tourists. The Government's $25-million contribution will be matched by the National Trails Coalition (NTC) and its partners. Cost-matching will occur on a project-by-project basis.

To provide the most rapid economic benefit possible during this challenging economic time, funding will go to shovel-ready projects that are set to break ground and be completed in 2009-2010.

The program is being administered by the NTC. The funds will be used to build, upgrade and renew trails recreational trails for a number of non-motorized and motorized uses, including hiking, walking, cycling, equestrian, cross-country skiing, ATVs, off-road motorcycles and snowmobiles. The NTC is responsible for reviewing and approving applications.

The NTC was formed in 2007 to bring trail-based organizations together in a collaborative manner to build, maintain and promote trail use across Canada. The NTC's member organizations are longstanding groups with considerable expertise in trail-building and funding administration.

The NTC is a non-profit organization whose member organizations provide stewardship of much of Canada's trail infrastructure. The NTC is composed of three not-for-profit organizations: the Canadian Trails Federation, the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors' Council and the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations. Membership in these national organizations is drawn from subsidiary groups in each province or from the private sector through the contributions of manufacturers and distributors of trail-related vehicles, products and services. Virtually all forms of trail-based activity are represented under the Trails Coalition banner.

Additional information can be found on the National Trails Coalition website: www.ntc-canada.ca or www.cns-canada.ca.

---

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
June 12th 2009

PM receives President’s Award from the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations
(Summerside, Prince Edward Island):
Prime Minister Stephen Harper received today the President’s Award from the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO). The Prime Minister received this award, the highest honour granted by the association, for delivering on his commitment to expand Canada’s network of national trails.

“I am honoured to receive this award from an organization that recognizes the importance of conserving Canada’s natural heritage,” said the Prime Minister. “Investing in Canada’s national trails helps create jobs today. It also opens up new opportunities for tourism businesses and allows more Canadians to enjoy the Canadian countryside in a safe and responsible manner.”

The Prime Minister announced on March 6, 2009, as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the expansion of Canada’s national trail system.

“On behalf of the thousands of volunteers who make up our trails community, we are pleased to recognize the Prime Minister’s exceptional leadership and support for recreational trails,” said CCSO President Kevin Sweetland, upon presenting the Prime Minister with the award.

PMO Press Office: 613-957-5555
This document is also available at http://pm.gc.ca
CCSO: Dennis Burns, 807.345.5299 or ccso.ccom@tbaytel.net

---

Federal Government & NTC News Release!!!
May 26th 2009

Open For Business
Federal Government and National Trails Coalition Launch Call for Applications
As one of the founding members of the National Trails Coalition (NTC), the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO)is very pleased to announce the launch of this program:

Ottawa, Ontario, May 26, 2009 – A program aimed at building and upgrading trails as well as creating jobs for Canadians took another step forward today when the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), and Terry Norman, National Coordinator for the National Trails Coalition (NTC), launched the call for applications for the Government of Canada’s $25 million investment in recreational trails, part of the Government’s 2009 Economic Action Plan.    (For full Story & Contact Information, CLICK HERE {in PDF format})

---

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
February 6th 2009

Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations Launches
National Snowmobiling Environment Month

(Thunder Bay, ON February 6, 2009): Across Canada, snowmobilers have been doing their part to keep nature beautiful for more than 40 years. Now, the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO) is bringing snowmobilers together by launching the first National Snowmobiling Environment Month, February 2009.

National Snowmobiling Environment Month celebrates a good news story. Today's clean and advanced technology snowmobiles run more efficiently, effectively and quieter than ever before. They also benefit Mother Nature by significantly reducing emissions and virtually eliminating smoke and smell. In fact, modern snowmobile engines produce 98% fewer hydrocarbons and 94% less sound than older sleds. Overall, snowmobiles account for only a small fraction of all the motor fuel burned annually in Canada.

National Snowmobiling Environment Month also reaffirms that snowmobiler's care about the environment. For example, most snowmobilers ride in defined locations, such as organized trails and designated riding areas. While Canada's total area is almost 9.8 million square kilometers, the surface footprint of all snowmobile trails in Canada equals approximately 621.5 square kilometers, about the size of one medium sized town. So as the snowmobiling activity enjoyed in most parts of Canada, trail riding takes place on only about .0064% of our overall landmass. Even when designated areas for mountain riding are factored in, Canadian snowmobiling occurs on a miniscule part of the whole, so interaction between snowmobilers and wildlife remains minimal. In addition, snowmobiling occurs when a blanket of snow protects the ground, thereby also minimizing its impact on plants and earth. And after the snow melts, nature flourishes again where sleds have traveled.

National Snowmobiling Environment Month is also a celebration of the many stewardship accomplishments of the CCSO and its member organizations. These ongoing initiatives include seeding, tree planting, protecting sensitive habitats and species, erosion control, installing bridges and culverts to protect rivers and streams, working with government and environment groups, and ongoing education and outreach efforts within the snowmobiling community.

The CCSO is using the occasion of National Snowmobiling Environment Month to remind riders to leave tracks, not trash; to maintain sleds at peak operating efficiency; to avoid noisy after market pipes; and wherever possible, to stay on the trail.

The Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations is committed to the conservation of Canada's natural environment and to preserving organized trails and designated riding areas for future generations to enjoy.

For more information, please contact:
Dennis Burns, Executive Director Team CCSO
Office: 807-345-5299
E-mail: ccso.ccom@tbaytel.net

---

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
Tuesday January 27th 2009

Re: ISMA Press Release - Ed Klim
“Canadian Government to invest $25 million into Canadian Trail Infrastructure"

On Tuesday, January 27, 2009 the Canadian Government approved the 2009 budget for Canada which will provide $25 million dollars to trail development infrastructure across the country.

The funds announced in the budget will allow trail enthusiasts to undertake a nationwide trail building and improvement program that will stimulate tourism, create jobs and ultimately improve trail oriented recreation for Canadians and visitors alike.

The budget for 2009 provides $25 million dollars to the National Trails Coalition for the 2009-2010 year for a national initiative. The government's contribution will be matched by the Coalition and its partners leading to economic activity in the communities and creating a trail system that will benefit Canadians and visitors for years to come.

The National Trails Coalition has been in existence since 2007 and its members are:

- Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations - Canadian Trails Federation - Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council - International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association

ISMA is an active member of the Coalition and will be participating in upcoming meetings in Ottawa.

The snowmobile community is very excited about this opportunity to work with the Federal Government and other trail enthusiasts to improve the trail system and the tourism product Canada will offer to outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.

Guidelines and other details will be forthcoming.

---

PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia - January 27th 2009

Re: National Trails Coalition (NTC) Release
National Trails Coalition Applauds Government
of Canada Investment in Trails Infrastructure.

Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Jan 27 - Leaders of the National Trails Coalition (NTC) are pleased that the Government of Canada is injecting $25 million into the construction of trail infrastructure across the nation. New trail infrastructure provides a safe venue for a variety of trail users and creates a local economic development opportunity, particularly in rural and northern Canada.

"The funds announced in today's Budget will allow us to undertake a nation-wide trail building program that will make trail use safer, stimulate tourism and create jobs," said National Trails Coalition Chairman and Canadian Trails Federation President, Terry Norman. "This is a major boost to all forms of trail-based tourism and recreational activities."

The National Trails Coalition was formed in 2007 to bring the broad spectrum of trail-based activities together in a collaborative manner to build, maintain and promote trails and trail use across Canada. One of the founding principles of the Coalition is building new partnerships between trail disciplines; fostering more multiple-use trail development; and providing a trail-based platform on which private enterprise and volunteer groups alike can generate economic activity.

"The Off-Highway Vehicle sector welcomes the partnership offered by the Minister of Finance in his Budget," said Bob Ramsay, President of the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council (COHV). "The $25 million investment will significantly increase the level of trail building in the coming year and it will create a heightened level of cooperation among trail user groups as they rally behind a common purpose."

Dennis Burns, Executive Director of the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO), said, "This is tremendous news for the trails community across Canada, particularly in rural and northern areas where trail-based activities play such an important role in the local economy. We salute the government's recognition that trails are not only important for peoples' health and well-being but they are also good business."

The National Trails Coalition was formed by the Canadian Trails Federation, the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors' Council and the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations. Membership in these national level organizations is drawn from provincial and territorial organizations or from the private sector through the contributions of manufacturers and distributors of trail-related vehicles, products and services. Virtually all forms of trail-based activity are represented under the Coalition banner.

For further information:
Jo-Anne Farquhar (416) 491-4449 ext 105
-or- Toll Free: 1-877-470-6642

Please share the press release with members and partners:

Dennis Burns
Executive Director
Team CCSO
807-345-5299
ccso.ccom@tbaytel.net

---

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
January 20th 2009

Re: ISMA Press Release - Ed Klim
Snowmobiles Built to the Highest of Standards

The snowmobile manufacturers continually improve quality and certification production standards for snowmobiles. As we all know, snowmobile engines are now built to strict EPA emission standards and requirements. The snowmobile manufacturers are preparing to introduce their model 2010 snowmobiles, which are required to meet EPA phase 2 emission standards. The phase 2 standard tightens up emission requirements considerably and requires updated emission related technology into the marketplace. Snowmobilers will see this new technology at spring shows 2009 and will be experiencing the new products next winter. Based on snow cover and the cold temperatures this winter, we are confident that many snowmobilers will be enjoying the new products in the near future.

In addition to stricter emission standards, the manufacturers continue to work on building quieter snowmobiles. Snowmobile sound testing procedures are being reviewed and updated by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and you can be rest assured the vehicles will be tested to these new rigid standards and our vehicles will meet these new testing standards.

All new snowmobiles built by the four snowmobile manufacturers of ISMA (Arctic Cat, BRP, Polaris, and Yamaha) are SSCC certified. The Snowmobile Safety Certification Committee (SSCC) requires new snowmobiles be certified and audited by an independent, third party, testing laboratory. The laboratory the manufacturers of ISMA use is SGS US Testing Company, the second largest third party testing laboratory in the world. There are 29 separate standards and SAE certification requirements which all new snowmobiles must meet. These standards cover areas such as;

a. Sound Level b. Fuel system c. Lighting d. Control systems e. Shields f. Safety guards g. Etc.

The certification process is deliberate, concise, and intense. All engineering specifications must be met and on site testing and audits both announced and unannounced are conducted by laboratory personnel.

The manufacturers, collectively through the SAE and through ISO (International Standards Organization) are always refining and reviewing the standards and preparing the standards for an international standards review. The manufacturers, through the SSCC have joined the ISO working groups and we will be working with these groups in sharing technical information, standards and certification procedures so our products continue to be recognized and certified to the very highest of standards worldwide.

When you ride your snowmobile, there is an SSCC label affixed to the tunnel. The label verifies your vehicle has been certified to the highest of standards recognized internationally.

The future of snowmobiling is bright and full of promise and new technology. The new technology brings new product quality to the marketplace for all of us to enjoy.

---

Canadian Avalanche Centre PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
January 15th 2009

Re: CAC Press Release - Mary Clayton, CAC Communications Director
“Rescue Gear Is Not Enough " Education and Preparation Key to Avoiding Avalanche Accidents

January 15, 2009, Revelstoke, BC: A series of recent avalanche fatalities in BC has underlined the need to communicate an important message­rescue gear is not enough! Twelve of the 13 people killed in this province were wearing transceivers and at least three were wearing the new air bag systems.

"Rescue equipment is only one part of the equation" says Canadian Avalanche Centre (CAC) Public Avalanche Forecaster Karl Klassen. "The focus should really be on choosing terrain appropriate to the conditions and preventing accidents, not just reacting to them." The CAC is working together with the BC Snowmobile Federation, the Association of BC Snowmobile Clubs and the Alberta Snowmobile Association to encourage these safe habits for all the members of their organizations.

Backcountry users need current snowpack information and avalanche education to make appropriate terrain choices. "The snowpack is constantly changing," explains Klassen. "Public forecasters devote a tremendous amount of time and expertise to tracking those changes and communicating the hazard as it fluctuates throughout the winter. Everyone using the winter backcountry should be taking advantage of this service and staying in tune with these changes."

Avalanche bulletins are available at www.avalanche.ca/CAC_Bulletin_Regions or by phone at 1 800-667-1105.

Avalanche education is available through many different providers throughout western Canada. The CAC has course providers posted on our website, listed by location. A basic avalanche awareness course is sixteen hours over two days and focuses on recognizing avalanche terrain and trip planning. Instructors who teach snowmobile-specific courses are highlighted.

The CAC issues avalanche forecasts three times a week throughout the winter, and daily during the Christmas and Easter holiday periods. The CAC website also hosts the public forecasts issued by the mountain National Parks, Whistler/Blackcomb, Alberta's Kananaskis Country, and the Centre d'avalanche de la Haute Gaspésie in Québec.

For more information contact:
Mary Clayton, CAC Communications Director
250-837-2141 (xt 228)
mclayton@avalanche.ca

---

PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
January 14th 2009
Audrey Bouchard
_{Communications and Public Relations Advisor, La Capitale General Insurance}
Re: “UPDATE ON THE 2008-2009 SNOWMOBILING SEASON"

Quebec, January 14, 2009 – The partners sponsoring the Snowmobile and ATV Safety Campaign, including La Capitale General Insurance, L’Unique General Insurance, the Quebec Ministère des Transports and BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.) are pleased with the positive effects and results of the campaign up to now.

Snowmobiling deaths in Quebec during the 2008-2009 season have decreased by 55% compared to the same time last year (Office of the Chief Coroner).

The theme of the safety campaign is Be smart, choose safety, and over the course of it 5000 large format posters have been distributed to stakeholders in the industry, including to 386 dealers and all snowmobiling and quad clubs in Quebec. Two television ads are currently being broadcast on MétéoMédia, the French version of The Weather Network. These ads encourage snowmobilers and quad bikers to always be safety-conscious on the trails and also address motorists who must share the road at crossings.

Trail conditions are also available daily on MétéoMédia. These reports are provided by the Quebec Snowmobilers Association (AdmdQ) and are also available on the Website of La Communauté des motoneigistes internautes du Québec, Motoneige.info and the web magazine Motoneiges.ca as well as the AdmdQ site. The latter site also displays weather conditions in real time, has trail maps, road condition reports and more at www.admdq.org/quebectrailcondition.html

Source: Audrey Bouchard
Communications and Public Relations Advisor
La Capitale General Insurance
Tel: 418 266-9662 / 1 800 561-7279

Information: Yves Watier
Senior Director, Marketing
La Capitale General Insurance
Tel: 514 473-6678

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
December 3d, 2008

Families across North America are changing their holiday and vacation plans, enabling them to stay closer to home and closer to family. Snowmobiling provides a growing number of families with the opportunity to vacation close to home, as a family. I participate in many tourism and travel seminars and have seen reports documenting how families are staying closer to home, traveling and flying far less than in previous years and have a tendency to vacation and recreate close to or within their home state or province. The shift is profound and it can be realized when looking at the number of airline flights that have been cancelled, the empty cruise ships and the very quiet Orlando airport. Meanwhile, resorts that cater to snowmobilers, downhill skiers and other winter enthusiasts are reporting robust bookings with snow cover aplenty.

The snowmobile manufacturers have initiated a communications effort between the snowmobile community and CVBs, Travel and Tourism Bureaus, and Chambers of Commerce across North America. Each month this winter every Chamber and Visitor and Convention Organization will receive a special E-mail newsletter from the ISMA office, highlighting the positive aspects of snowmobiling to include the positive economic impact snowmobiling has on the region. We are also sending to all of these organizations up to date family snowmobiling photos that can be used in their promotion pieces, trail maps and more.

To help support that effort, we are sending positive news release stories and articles to over 4,000 daily and weekly newspapers throughout North America and are developing working relationships with editors and sports writers across the Snow Belt. We believe this extensive outreach to the general media creates positive working relationships for the entire snowmobile community. We are already receiving numerous inquiries on the positive economic impact of snowmobiling as well as the positive family social fabric that snowmobiling brings to the community.

Finally, the manufacturers have collectively initiated an extensive internet advertising campaign which has targeted non-snowmobilers and snowmobilers alike. If you have a computer, you should soon be seeing pop-up ads depicting fun family snowmobiling encouraging you and your neighbors to go snowmobiling. When you start to see the pop-up ads on your computer, let us know. Ride safe and enjoy the winter. Consider taking a non-snowmobiling friend snowmobiling during our special Take a Friend Snowmobiling Week - February 14, 22, 2009. For more information on the Take a Friend Snowmobiling Week, please visit the Go Snowmobiling web site at www.gosnowmobiling.org web site.

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
Thunder Bay, Ontario - November 27th 2008

Sleds2buy.com announces 'No Charge Trial Dealer Accounts' to let dealers "experience for themselves the true value of the network as compared to other "traditional" media and prove without doubt that sleds2buy.com is the most effective classified network in the country.

Effective today, posting to the Sleds2buy.com network (and the entire itoys2buy.com network) is free or no charge for a two month trial period, for any dealer in Canada. There is no 'catch' and no contract to sign. Dealers can post 10 units online (and rotate out sold units too) for 60 days and the normal value rate of $150/ month will be waived. The concept of selling snowmobiles on exclusive snowmobile websites is a better way to connect buyers with sellers and a proven cornerstone of the entire 2buy.com network. By offering a snowmobile-exclusive classified, dealers can effectively price their inventory, while reducing the time to turn it. Snowmobile dealers would never try to sell "TVs" or "AUTOS" out of their showrooms, so why would they expect to find "snowmobile buyers" in classified books or websites that are dominated by so many other non-snowmobile related products?

In a recent statement, Dennis Burns - Executive Director for the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations said; "Over the past year, sleds2buy.com has become the most targeted classified network for buying and selling snowmobiles in the country and the first ever classified to return money back into our trails with each posting." But times are tough and Burns went on to say; "We understand that the entire industry is feeling the crunch and our dealers are watching their marketing budgets closer than ever. We want to do our part to help and have decided to offer 'No Charge Trial Dealer Accounts' as our investment in the dealer network in Canada. This approach allows dealers to experience the true value of the network risk-free, answering any questions as to where they should be advertising in the future."

Sleds2buy.com was created by snowmobilers for snowmobilers. The CCSO understands that dealers also sell other recreational products. sleds2buy.com is linked to several power sports networks including motorcycle2buy.com, quad2buy.com and iboats2buy.com - all offering industry-leading design and functionality. Visitor statistics, sales flyers and unlimited price changes are just a few of the many software benefits of the network as well as one sleds2buy.com account, allowing dealers to advertise "any type of product" across the network with the same no-charge account, making sleds2buy.com the best choice for today's economy.

Sleds2buy.com "No Charge Trial Dealer Accounts" are available today.
For more information, visit www.sleds2buy.com

For further information, please contact:

Dennis Burns
ccso.ccom@tbaytel.net
Tel: 807-345-5299

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
Thunder Bay, Ontario - November 26th 2008

Thunder Bay, Ontario (November 26, 2008): Starting December 1st, posting to the Sleds2buy.com network is free or no charge. The only time you will pay is when your snowmobile sells making sleds2buy.com a no-risk proposition and the best place to sell your sled.

The concept of selling snowmobiles on exclusive snowmobile websites is a better way to connect buyers with sellers and a proven cornerstone of the entire 2buy.com network. By offering a snowmobile-exclusive classified, sellers can get real market pricing for their sled, while reducing the time to sell it. At that point, the nominal $30 charge (when and only when it is sold) is a bargain and considering the fact that the money goes back into the trails - makes sleds2buy.com the best place to list snowmobiles and trailers for sale.

In a recent statement, Dennis Burns - Executive Director for the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations said; "Over the past year, sleds2buy.com has become the most targeted classified network for buying and selling snowmobiles in the country and the first ever classified to return money back into our trails with each posting." But times are tough and Burns went on to say; "We understand that some of our riders may actually have to sell their sleds or may only upgrade with used products this year. We want to do our part to help, providing ultimate value at every opportunity and have decided to offer "Pay only when it sells" pricing. This approach allows riders to experience the true value of the network risk-free and when their sled does sell, helps by putting money back into our sport."

Sleds2buy.com was created by snowmobilers for snowmobilers. And understanding that most riders also own other recreational products, sleds2buy.com is linked to several power sports networks including motorcycle2buy.com, quad2buy.com and iboats2buy.com, all offering industry leading design and functionality to the users of recreational products. Visitor statistics, sales flyers and unlimited price changes are just a few of the many software benefits to the network, beyond the industry-first "money directed back into the respective sport" with each sold snowmobile, makes sleds2buy.com the best choice for today's economy.

Sleds2buy.com "pay only when you sell pricing" is available starting December 1st.

For further information, please contact:

Dennis Burns
ccso.ccom@tbaytel.net
Tel: 807-345-5299

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
November 2008

The snowmobile community is excited to announce the Take a Friend Snowmobiling Week - which will be held February 14-22, 2009. This elongated week celebrates friends and family snowmobiling for 9 days including two weekends. The snowmobile week was introduced to go hand in hand with the Take a Friend Snowmobiling campaign and has been developed to encourage all of us to take our non-snowmobiling friends out snowmobiling. We have all had many conversations, telling stories about how much fun it is to take people snowmobiling, and many of us are realizing that we have a lot of non-snowmobiling friends to take snowmobiling.

The event is really designed to be simple. There are a few recommended guidelines. They are:

Safety training - make sure to cover all safe snowmobiling behavior with your friend before taking them out on their first ride. Points to cover should include:

- a. Proper operation of the brake and throttle - b. Shifting weight and slowing down in curves - c. Staying on the right hand side of the trail - d. Dismount the snowmobile on the right hand side of the sled - e. Make sure the vehicle is in good mechanical order - f. Make sure your friend is appropriately dressed and sober

A key ingredient to a good time for a first time snowmobiler is for us seasoned riders to make sure non-snowmobilers are comfortable when they first get on a snowmobile. You need to be cautious and ride slowly when taking out a new rider. You should plan on making numerous stops and enjoying the scenery. It is always recommended that the first ride be rather short and include a stop for a light meal or hot chocolate or coffee and a little camaraderie and storytelling at the local restaurant, clubhouse or outdoor barbecue area.

Clubs are encouraged to participate in the activity and try to hold a special day or weekend encouraging members to bring non-snowmobiling friends to the clubhouse to go for a short ride and discover what snowmobilers do during the winter.

This effort follows the guidelines and recommendations our customer research presented to us, which showed us that non-snowmobilers know very little about snowmobiling. Most non-snowmobilers don't know where the trails are, really don't know who builds and maintains and pays for the trail systems, and have no idea of the beautiful scenery that we enjoy and the fun that we have in the winter riding our snowmobiles. We also know folks who don't snowmobile, rate their desire to go snowmobiling a solid 9 on a 10 point scale. All we need to do is ask.

We have all heard the stories of snowmobilers taking friends out, and much to their surprise the friends enjoy themselves so much, they end up buying a new or used snowmobile to join in the winter fun. What a pleasant surprise that is for all of us so why not encourage our family and friends to join us outside this winter on a snowmobile?

As a special incentive to take non-snowmobilers snowmobiling, the manufacturers will give away a new snowmobile to a lucky individual who registers online and participates in the Take a Friend Snowmobiling Week event. Beginning in December 2008, the Take a Friend Snowmobiling Week Registration Form will be prominently displayed on the Go Snowmobiling web site: www.snowmobile.org/take-a-friend-2008.html, the ACSA web site: www.snowmobilers.org and the CCSO web site. Non-snowmobilers and their snowmobiling friends need to fill out the registration form to be entered in the drawing for a new snowmobile. If a Club is interested in organizing an event, not only do all of their club members who participate get to register to win the snowmobile, but so do their guests and the club get to register to win as well. The registration form will be easy to fill out.

Try to involve your local dealer(s), ski Hill, Chamber of Commerce and local restaurant. All of us collectively can really expand the idea and make this week an annual event.

So plan on participating if you are going to be snowmobiling from February 14-22, 2009 and make sure to register on one of the three web sites and take advantage of this opportunity to win a new snowmobile and have fun doing it.

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
September 16th 2008

(Haslett, MI-September 16, 2008) The first round of what is likely to be a busy fall of litigation regarding snowmobile access to Yellowstone this winter (2008-2009) has finished. On September 15, 2008, District Judge Emmett Sullivan of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia vacated the National Park Services December 13, 2007 Winter Use Rule, which provided for recreational access to Yellowstone National Park by up to 540 best available technology snowmobiles per day. He vacated the entire Winter Use Rule, apparently including the snowcoach provisions as well as the snowmobile provisions. He did not put any substitute rule in place and remanded the rule to the National Park Service, which can consider whether to adopt a new rule.

Judge Sullivan's ruling is only the latest in a long history of litigation surrounding the Park Service's Winter Use Rules for Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr., Memorial Parkway. A second related case, challenging the Winter Use Rule as being too restrictive of snowmobiling, is ongoing in the U.S. District Court for the District of Wyoming.

While the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association - ISMA, the American Council of Snowmobile Associations - ACSA, and the Blue Ribbon Coalition - BRC strongly object to Judge Sullivan's ruling, they recognize that this ruling is not the last word on Yellowstone winter use. Judge Sullivan's ruling does not replace the vacated rule with any other rule for the upcoming winter season, leaving open the issue on whether and how much snowmobile access will be allowed. Oral argument in the related Wyoming litigation took place before District Judge Clarence Brimmer in Cheyenne, Wyoming on the same day Judge Sullivan issued his Order. ISMA, ACSA, and BRC are parties to that litigation as well, and intend to ask the Court to reinstate the temporary rule that preceded the 2007 Winter Use Rule and allowed for up to 720 recreational best available technology snowmobiles per day in Yellowstone.

Judge Sullivanâ?Ts ruling may ultimately result in there being no snowmobile or snowcoach use in Yellowstone this winter, depending on the Park Service's response, a possible appeal of Judge Sullivan's ruling, and the Wyoming litigation. At any rate, Judge Sullivan's ruling represents a radical departure from established legal principles and interpretations of governing statutes. His broad-ranging and novel interpretations of the National Park Service Organic Act and the Yellowstone National Park Act prohibit the Park Service from approving nearly any visitor activity causing impacts to Natural Park resources. This has the potential to bar a broad range of visitor activities in National Parks year round, including car, truck, RV, motorcycle, and other motorized vehicle access during the Spring, Summer, and Fall months. It also has the potential to do so throughout the Park System, not just in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

Finally, Judge Sullivanâ?Ts ruling ignores the long history of broad discretion for the Park Service to balance conservation with visitor use and enjoyment in its management of the Park System. By second-guessing the Park Service's methodology for evaluating the impacts of the rule, it also departs from the well-established legal principles requiring courts to defer to governmental agencies' scientific and technical judgments.

ISMA, ACSA, and BRC are dedicated to preserving snowmobilers' access to federal lands, including units of the National Park System. ISMA, ACSA, and BRC will continue to pursue recreational snowmobile access to Yellowstone National Park.

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
August 19th 2008

Valcourt Québec, August 19th 2008 - As part of its 50th Anniversary celebration, BRP and its Ski-Doo® dealers will donate up to $1 million to Canadian snowmobile clubs for snowmobile trails through the Ski-Doo Million Dollar Club Support Program. Regardless of the brand they own, every Canadian snowmobiler will be able to participate in this fundraising program.

For each snowmobiler submitting a certificate at their Ski-Doo dealership, BRP will donate $10 to their snowmobile club through the program. Program certificates are available in all Canadian snowmobile magazines, at fall snowmobile shows, and on ski-doo.com. An advertising, public relations and direct mailing campaign will also be launched to encourage snowmobilers to participate.

"Launching a grassroots funding campaign to benefit clubs is a natural fit with our 50th anniversary celebration because Ski-Doo was right there at the beginning to help establish the very first organized snowmobile trails in Canada," said Alain Villemure, vice-president and General Manager of the Ski-Doo / Sea-Doo division. "We've always recognized and appreciated the hard work our clubs and volunteers carry out on snowmobile trails - and how important those trails are for the safety of the sport."

The top club in each of the following regions: Quebec, Ontario, Atlantic Provinces (New-Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador), Saskatchewan, and Manitoba will receive a limited 50th anniversary edition of a 2009 Ski-Doo MX Z snowmobile to use for additional fundraising activities. There will also be parts, accessory and clothing incentives for clubs that reach 75% or more participation from their membership.

For information:
Canada & US
Steve Cowing
Ski-Doo Competition and Media Relations Manager
651-982-6223
steve.cowing@brp.com
www.brp.com
www.ski-doo.com

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
July 29th 2008

By the year 2020, tourism will be the world's largest industry - predicts the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies. Today, Travel and Tourism in North America is a $2 Trillion Dollar business and accounts for millions of jobs and generates billions of dollars in state and federal tax revenues. Clearly tourism is an important part of North American's product inventory and tourism overall continues to grow.

A very important part of that Tourism growth is the snowmobile community which includes the products, the trails, the resorts, the restaurants, and the many great amenities available for winter tourists. A quick look at the snowmobile numbers supports our claim as an important part of the economic engine of North America. Registrations of snowmobiles in the United States for this past year are now over 1.625 million snowmobiles - a 2.6% increase from last year. In Canada there are over 708 thousand registered snowmobiles - a 1.5% increase from last year. Miles ridden by snowmobilers in North America jumped 17% this past season. The average snowmobiler rode over 1040 miles this past winter. Sales of snowmobiles worldwide increased 2% to 163,753 units and notably Parts, Garments and Accessories sales increased over 17% this past season vs. the season before. Yes, 5 key measurement indicators of the snowmobile community reported positive gains and as you can see, in some instances double digit growth.

We know the record snowfalls reported in parts of North America were important related factors to the increased riding activity and registration numbers. Those increased numbers are showing up in new economic impact statements from states and provinces, reporting that Winter Tourism spending overall was up in 2007-2008 vs. the winter of 2006-2007. Much of the increase can be attributed to an increase in snowmobiling activity. Final reports of sales tax collections and room taxes are still to be finalized but the reports are positive. Tourism and Travel Bureaus and Commerce departments are consistently telling the ISMA office that snowmobiling is becoming a larger part of the winter economic action picture than ever before.

A successful 2007-2008 winter should be followed by a successful 2008-2009 winter. Average temperatures in North America are falling and the forecast is favorable for good snowmobiling conditions. People want to get out and enjoy themselves escaping from the stresses of a normal work day and a less than entertaining TV schedule, so snowmobiling with friends fills the need.

The manufacturers are working closely with the American Council of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA) and the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO) in the expansion and development of the Go Snowmobiling - Take a Friend Snowmobiling campaign. I'm confident we will introduce many new winter outdoor enthusiasts to the great family activity of snowmobiling this winter.

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - MEDIA ADVISORY!!!
February 29TH 2008

OTTAWA, Feb. 29 /CNW Telbec/ - Transport Canada and snowmobile manufacturer, BRP, of Valcourt, Québec are actively investigating three incidents of explosions followed by fires involving the fuel system on 2007 and 2008 Skandic SWT V-800 and Expedition SUV SDI 600 snowmobiles.

One of the vehicles has been retrieved and brought to Transport Canada's facilities in Ottawa for examination. These incidents have taken place in the area of Rigolet, Labrador, in extreme cold temperatures (below -29degreesC). No reports of any such incidences have been reported from any other region in Canada.

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
February 2008

This past winter has proven to be a good year for the snowmobile community's Go Snowmobiling - Take a Friend Snowmobiling campaign. A number of state and provincial associations have worked closely with the ISMA Grant Program Committee and sponsored exciting events where non-snowmobilers went riding for the first time.

The associations stressed safe snowmobiling training prior to each event and included the local clubs in coordinating the effort. Club members served as guides and the local clubs prepared the trails so the experience was superb. A number of associations held special Go Snowmobiling events for elected officials and influential community leaders. In a number of cases, directors of tourism and environment were introduced to snowmobiling and by the end of the day they were all smiling and educated on the proper way to ride a snowmobile. The members also stressed the importance of snowmobiling to the economy and the fabric of the community.

In addition to working closely with the associations and clubs, the manufacturers have updated the family snowmobiling picture album that is available for all snowmobile organizations to use. The photos feature family snowmobiling at its best and include newly designed snowmobiles from each manufacturer. The photos are available for use in the updating of snowmobile trail maps and snowmobiling brochures. The photos are also available for use by Visitors and Convention Bureaus, Tourism Departments and the general media. They can be reviewed on the www.gosnowmobiling.org web site.

The snowmobile manufacturers are looking to expand their efforts with the snowmobile community in 2009 by inviting non-snowmobilers to enjoy the winter outdoors on a snowmobile.

The manufacturers have joined together in sponsoring the 2009 Manufacturers Spring Sneak Peak show schedule. The show format allows customers to view and touch the new snowmobiles from the manufacturers all in the same room. Snowmobile shopping has never been better!

In addition to the Go Snowmobiling - Take a Friend Snowmobiling effort, the manufacturers are supporting snowmobiling outings with journalists world wide. Tourism writers, travel writers, and Associated Press Reporters were introduced to snowmobiling this year through the efforts of state and provincial associations and travel bureaus. Snowmobiling is truly becoming the winter recreation of choice for a broader spectrum of the population. It's great to see folks from all walks of life interested in getting outdoors in the winter and enjoying snowmobiling.

We are confident next winter will bring the abundance of snow that many of us have enjoyed this past winter and allow even more people to try snowmobiling. We are optimistic the return of winter will continue, and our optimism is supported by a growing cadre of scientists.

Remote Sensing Systems of Santa Rosa, California reports satellite data show January 2008 was the second-coldest January for the planet in 15 years.

88 inches of snow fell on Madison, Wisconsin this season - the MOST in recorded history.

Meteorologist Anthony Watts notes there has been a global drop in temperature of 0.63 degrees Centigrade in the past 12 months. Global temperatures measured by satellite in January slipped to 0.04oC (.07oF) below the long-term (1979-98) average. Further, the satellite records show absolutely NO Global Warming since the beginning of 2001. The drop in temperature in the past year has been a whopping 0.63oC (1.13oF). Over the past 10 years, global warming has essentially stopped. According to James M. Taylor of The Hartland Institute, "The warmest year in the instrumental record was 1998, and the temperatures have been slightly cooler and very steady since then."

(CCSO-CCOM Note: both Huntsville, Ontario and Bathurst, New Brunswick received almost 12 feet of snowfall this winter)

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
February 8th 2008

• - Leave Tracks, Not Trash
  If you had space to bring it in, then respect nature by carrying it out. Take it in, Pack it out!
  
• - Protect Wildlife
  Animals are more vulnerable in the winter, so keep your distance and leave them alone. Enjoy wildlife, use your camera and create another memory.
  
• - Stay On The Trail
  Wherever organized trails exist, reduce your environmental impact by riding on them. Trails are the safest place to ride so follow the signs.

ISHOF PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
January 21st 2008

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
January 2008

Montréal, January 10, 2008 - The Board of Directors of the Québec Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (FCMQ) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Sylvie Ouellette to the position of Director General.

Ms. Ouellette has worked in the tourism sector for the past 20 years. She has acquired broad experience in project management, strategic planning, regional development, research, and marketing planning. Her previous appointments include the positions of Marketing Director and Assistant to the President of SÉPAQ, Director General of the Tourism Development Corporation of the greater region of Québec City, and Project Manager for consultancy firms. She has also worked as a consultant with the FCMQ on various marketing issues and has contributed to the creation of club clusters.

Please welcome Sylvie to the management team of organized snowmobiling in Quebec.

Thank you

Dennis Burns
Executive Director - CCSO/CCOM

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
January 20th 2008

Medina, MN - Polaris Industries announced last week that its Chief Executive Officer, Tom Tiller, expects to step down from his position by the end of 2008 when his current employment contract expires. Tiller, 46, has been with the company since July, 1998 and its CEO since May, 1999.

Tiller explained his decision as a personal one. “After considerable thought and extensive discussions with the Board of Directors, I felt 2008 was the right time to leave. When I came to Polaris from GE, I expected to lead the company for a considerable period, and 2008 marks my tenth year here. I absolutely love our company, our products and our people and I’m proud of what we have been able to accomplish together. This past year was another good one for us in a tough environment and I expect 2008 to be good as well. We have a very solid and experienced team and I am confident in our ability to win well into the future. Our company is in good shape so it seems like the right time."

“Polaris is a company that is built on innovation. And a fresh set of eyes every decade or so is a good thing. With just two CEOs over the past 27 years, we have enjoyed consistent leadership and results. I am confident that we will identify a successor that will benefit our employees, dealers, suppliers, shareholders and communities for the long run. And for me personally, I am excited about ending my tenure as CEO in a very strong way, helping the Board choose a successor and then exploring some new challenges.”

Tiller is expected to remain on the Polaris Board of Directors for a transitional period after a successor is named.

The Board of Directors, led by its chairman Greg Palen, is directing the search for Tiller’s successor and will evaluate both internal and external candidates. “The Board is committed to ensuring that Polaris goes through an effective and orderly leadership transition," said Palen. "We have had a comprehensive succession plan in place for several years and are in the process of executing that plan, which will ultimately identify the best possible candidate. We will take the time necessary to identify the very best person and that process is expected to be completed this year.” In the interim, the current management team, led by Tom Tiller and Bennett Morgan, President & COO, will continue to direct the company to ensure continuity.

As CEO, Tiller led Polaris to become a more diverse and global company. Net sales grew from $1.1 billion in 1998 to nearly $1.8 billion today and the company expanded its international business outside of North America from 6 percent of total company sales in 1998 to approximately 14 percent of company sales today. The market capitalization of Polaris also grew from approximately $1 billion in 1998 to nearly $1.7 billion at the end of 2007.

Additionally, Tiller continued to diversify the revenue and income generation capabilities of the company to better weather economic changes including growing the side-by-side business into what now represents more than one-third of total Polaris ATV sales under the RANGER brand and establishing Victory as the first successful launch of a major motorcycle brand in more than 60 years. Tiller also significantly grew Polaris’ financial services business and expanded the highly profitable parts, garments and accessories business. During his tenure, Polaris invested $36 million into a new 126,000-square-foot Product Development Center in Wyoming, MN, the single largest investment in product development the company has ever made, which demonstrates the company’s commitment to continuing to create innovative, top-of-the-line, high-quality vehicles for Polaris and Victory riders.

“We are thankful to Tom for the direction and success he has provided in the decade in which he has led the company and support his decision to take some time away from the life of a public company CEO,” said Palen. “His focus on helping the Board to identify the right person to lead Polaris in the future and his decision to remain as CEO until the successor is named and in place are key steps to ensure both a smooth leadership transition and a successful 2008 for Polaris.”

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
November 2007

Snowmobiling is in full stride around the world and now is the time for snowmobilers to keep snowmobile safety a top-of-mind awareness issue. Snowmobile safety is nothing new to organized snowmobiling. Snowmobile Administrators, the Manufacturers, snowmobile associations and clubs joined together years ago in developing the Safe Riders! You make snowmobiling safe safety campaign which brought safe snowmobiling practices, training and enforcement to a new level. The Safe Riders! campaign, designed by snowmobilers for snowmobilers is financially supported by the snowmobile manufacturers. The campaign includes safety related materials such as decals, posters, the Safe Riders! DVD, public service announcements, and more. Millions of Safe Riders! Snowmobiling Fact Books and posters have been distributed throughout the world to safety trainers and clubs and associations - free of charge- from the manufacturers' ISMA office. Thousands of the Safe Riders! You make snowmobiling safe 22-minute safety DVDs have been sent to safety trainers and safety minded snowmobilers worldwide. The DVD is an excellent adjunct tool for snowmobile safety classes. They are available by contacting the ISMA Office through our web site www.snowmobile.org.

This year, International Snowmobile Safety Week is January 13-19, 2008. A Safety Week Manual has been designed to give clubs and associations guidance in how to plan and hold safety programs. The Safety Week Manual can be downloaded from the ISMA Web site at www.snowmobile.org. The campaign is only as good as the instructors and the support received from the community. Thankfully the instructor base is expanding and the support of government and enforcement officials is exceptional.

Snowmobiling accidents and fatalities have continued to decline over the past three years and statistics show there is more than a 30% reduction in accidents and fatalities while snowmobiling over the last 6 years. The Safe Riders! campaign highlights key issues of importance for snowmobile safety. The position statements are concise and easy to understand. They include:

• Snowmobiling and Alcohol don't mix - don't drink and ride
• When night riding slow down - expect the unexpected
• Know before you go - always check local ice conditions
• Cross all roads with care - don't become road-kill
• One is the loneliest number - never ride alone
• Know the risks and be prepared - make every trip a round trip
• Ride smart ride right - stay in control
• Smart Riders are Safe Riders - always take snowmobile safety training

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
October 2007

We have all read stories claiming the use of snowmobiles in Yellowstone National Park is not supported by the majority of people. Whenever I read these articles I wonder where their data came from and why do some people have such a misplaced agenda? I snowmobile and I know quite a few people who don't snowmobile. My non-snowmobiling friends do not think negatively of me or snowmobiling and, if the truth were known, they want to go snowmobiling. My small world is no different than the world in which we all live.

Many Surveys asking for individual views on snowmobiling have been conducted. Time and again, in scientific polls, the results show Americans believe snowmobiles should be allowed in the National Parks. The most extensive scientific national study was performed by SWR Research based in Washington DC. The study determined the majority of Americans viewed any discriminatory action by the Park Service against outdoor enthusiasts as an example of Federal Overreach. The overwhelming majority of people believe the Federal Government and other interest groups often attempt to fix a problem that does not exist usually at some political benefit to an interest > group. According to survey responses, 90% of all Americans believe responsible snowmobiling should be allowed in Yellowstone National Park.

Over 65% of all Americans agree that if one form of outdoor recreation is impacted negatively by government action it will eventually lead to similar negative impacts on other outdoor recreation visitors.

65% of Americans believe the effort to limit recreation represents the views of a very small minority of the citizens who happen to be members of the fringe environmental community.

The SWR survey was a broad based representative scientific survey. The breakdown of the individuals surveyed would show that 85% of those surveyed have visited a National Park. 31% were Republican, 36% were Democrat, and 21% were Independent. 22% of the respondents were 18-34 years old ,35% were 35-49 years of age, and 40% were 50 years of age and older. 48% were male, 52% were female and the respondents represented our society from New England to the Pacific Coast states.

Reviewing good scientific research is inspiring and supports my belief that the vast majority of Americans are clear thinking, honest individuals who don't wish to take somebody else's recreational opportunities away. Only a tiny percentage of the population, for whatever reason, have been radicalized and feel they have all the answers and should control our lives.

Studies conducted by an independent research firm also concluded the vast majority of individuals who don't snowmobile are very interested in snowmobiling. As reported on numerous sites, non-snowmobilers rate their desire to go snowmobiling on a scale of 1-10 as a 9. Non-snowmobilers view snowmobilers as interesting, exciting outdoor enthusiasts who have fun and enjoy life. We snowmobilers agree with that reputation.

My job takes me from Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, British Columbia all the way to St. John's, Newfoundland and Boston, Massachusetts and beyond. I have spent time in the Scandinavian countries of Sweden, Norway and Finland and some time in the heart of Europe. Yes, individuals worldwide are as interested in snowmobiling as those of us that live in North America. In Europe, like North America, there is a small percentage of individuals who wish to control the behavior of others, but happily, common sense is prevailing and outdoor recreational opportunities are expanding in Europe as they are in Canada and the US.

We must be strong in defending our position and I believe we all gain strength in knowing that a vast majority of the population supports our values, our recreational opportunities, and our winter lifestyle. So, the next time you attend a land access related public meeting and run into one of the few bigots that doesn't want you to snowmobile, maintain your cool, know they represent a tiny fraction of mankind, and look him or her in the eye and tell them they are just plain wrong. Then, invite them to "Go Snowmobiling".

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
October 2007

The 2007-2008 weather outlook for North America, according to the Farmer's Almanac, is for a colder than normal winter for much of North America with snowier than normal conditions expected. According to the Farmer's Almanac, Mother Nature is going to keep many of us on our toes. The Almanac promises a change from last year. The Almanac goes on to report that Mother Nature will be showing little mercy and the temperatures should begin to drop soon, with snow to follow.

With the Farmer's Almanac forecast in mind, nobody is more excited about this winter's snowmobiling possibilities than organized snowmobilers. This winter holds some great potential for improved snowmobiling and expanded opportunities for snowmobilers to Take a Friend Snowmobiling.

At the International Snowmobile Congress held in June 2007 the International Snowmobile Media Council initiated a unique partnership with the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association and other snowmobile community members in the development of the Take a Friend Snowmobiling campaign. The campaign has been developed while considering the snowmobile manufacturers Go Snowmobiling research, which shows that non-snowmobilers have an extremely strong desire to go snowmobiling. As a matter of fact, when asked how they would rate their desire to go snowmobiling, non-snowmobilers across the snowbelt reported an interest of 9 on a scale of 1-10 expressing their interest level to "go snowmobiling."

Snowmobilers are social folk who enjoy each others company and enjoy the great outdoors in the winter. This is a wonderful opportunity for all of us to take a non-snowmobiling friend snowmobiling and get to know them better on the snow and encourage them to join one of our unique snowmobile clubs and associations.

Throughout the winter the International Snowmobile Media Council members will be promoting the Take a Friend Snowmobiling idea and concepts to snowmobile clubs and associations. Many snowmobile associations are planning special rides where they will invite non-snowmobilers for a snowmobile ride. Some clubs and associations are already inviting local politicians and news media (radio, TV and print) to Go Snowmobiling. The best way to explain WHY we snowmobile is to actually Take a Friend Snowmobiling. We know how much FUN it is and once our new and old friends go snowmobiling, they'll be part of our team.

The manufacturers collectively and individually, as well as the dealer body, are supporting the Take a Friend/Go Snowmobiling efforts. Through the ISMA Grant Program, opportunities are available for state/provincial associations to receive financial support in coordinating an effective Take a Friend Snowmobiling event.

There are many opportunities and the ideas are limitless. Knowing how important the weather is and how many of us watch our favorite weather person on TV, I recommend we all contact our favorite weatherman (weather woman in most cases) and take him or her snowmobiling. Once we get the weather people on a snowmobile with us, the next time they forecast a winter storm, they will do so with a smile - not a frown.

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
September 2007

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
Tuesday, July 18th 2006

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
Riverview, New Brunswick - Saturday, November 30, 2002

CCSO/CCOM PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!
Moncton, New Brunswick - June 9th, 2002

The annual Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO) Snowmobile Excellence Awards, Canada’s premiere snowmobile awards, recognize exceptional contributions to organized snowmobiling by individuals, clubs and businesses. The 2002 award recipients for this benchmark national recognition were selected by a national panel of judges from nominations submitted by provincial and territorial snowmobile associations.

The awards will be presented at the International Snowmobile Congress in Vancouver, British Columbia, on Saturday, June 7, 2002.

The winners of the 2002 CCSO Snowmobile Excellence Awards are: