The following course material is for reference only. Please go to the new course to complete your Vermont certification.

Preparing to Ride

Protecting the Environment

Understanding the Snowmobile’s Impact on the Environment

Snowmobiles have minimal environmental impact when used properly. Impact on grasses and other ground cover is minimal when vegetation is covered by at least four inches of snow. Since a snowmobile distributes its weight over a wide area, the pressure (weight per square inch) is much lower than the pressure created by a person on foot. Snowmobiles are built to federally mandated noise control standards. Engine noise has little or no effect on humans when trails are properly located away from residential or business areas. Scientific studies indicate that compaction of snow by snowmobiles has no negative effect on crops such as winter wheat or alfalfa. Compaction often eliminates snow mold and increases yields. Compaction may decrease soil erosion.

Ten snowmobiles and riders stacked on top of one another equal the same ground pressure as one person on foot.

Riding Responsibly To Keep Wild Lands Beautiful

• Stay on established trails and keep away from tree farms, nurseries, and orchards. Plants and young trees are vulnerable to severe damage from snowmobiles.
• Avoid disturbing or harassing wildlife. If you encounter animals on the trail, stay seated and either continue slowly or stop until the animals depart. Be especially cautious if you encounter moose, which tend to remain on the trail.
• In the winter, animals need to conserve energy to survive, so don’t frighten them into using energy unnecessarily.
• Maintain your snowmobile according to your owner’s manual. An improperly adjusted track system hurts performance and increases emissions and noise.
• Excessive noise from snowmobiles often makes them unwelcome with other snowmobilers, as well as with others nearby. Maintain and operate your snowmobile to minimize noise.