DCNR Highlights Economic Impact Of Snowmobiling

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn joined members of the Saint Marys Snowmobile Club to highlight snowmobiling and to provide safety tips for outdoor recreation during winter months.

Dunn emphasized the importance of snowmobiling, noting that it adds $65 million to Pennsylvania’s economy annually. There are more than 40,000 registered snowmobiles in the commonwealth, with 59 local snowmobile clubs represented by 4,000 club members.

This winter season, DCNR has responded to a number of incidents on its lands, prompting Dunn to encourage riders to practice safety at all times. Dunn offered the following tips Friday:

• Wear a helmet, eye protection and suitable clothing

• Don’t use drugs or alcohol when you ride

• Ride with others and let someone know where you are riding

• Stay on trails designated for snowmobiles

• Always ride at a safe and responsible speed

• Know your abilities as a rider

• Always obey the laws

State parks and forests offer an abundance of activities during winter months and DCNR encourages people to use engage in safe behaviors whether hiking, skiing, sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing, shoveling or any other outdoor activity. More broadly, DCNR offered additional safety tips:

• Dress appropriately

• Wear a helmet when applicable

• Only recreate in approved areas

• Wear sunscreen on areas not covered by clothing

• Be aware of others’ movements

• Carry proper gear

• Take breaks

• Do not over work yourself during activities

• Snow shoveling can trigger heart attacks and while that isn’t recreation it is an outdoor winter activity.