In regard to Enforcement- beyond the Sno Parks is really no enforcement. There is USFS snowmobile patrol in Cle Elum RD, but as a practical matter for the amount of territory, no enforcement. Here is a posting from Snowest attributted to a USFS manager from about a year ago-
"Dear fellow snowmobilers,
Once again, the issue of snowmobilers riding in wilderness is rearing its head. This is not a new issue, as you know, but it seems to be on the increase again. We are getting more and more letters from backcountry skiers who are really unhappy about seeing and hearing snowmobiles in wilderness, and once again the drumbeats for closing routes that get close to wilderness are getting louder. As you know, we (the Forest Service) are completely unable to patrol these boundaries with any degree of effectiveness. We will be putting up signs, and flyers at sno-parks, but I'm also asking for your help in getting on top of this. If you could pass this message on to your riding buddies, clubs, and especially folks you see in the woods who may be inclined to ride in wilderness:
"RIDING IN WILDERNESS LEADS TO CLOSURES OUTSIDE WILDERNESS". Or as I like put it "Every time you put a track in wilderness, you hand a box of ammunition to those who want to shut down our sport" Also, if you are aware of an incursion point that could use a sign, contact me and I'll get you one. You guys have always been helpful , and I'd appreciate any continued help in getting the message out. I'm also not very computer savvy, so if anyone would like to post something on Sno-West or other appropriate forums, that would be great.. Thanks in advance for your help!
Tim Foss
Trails, Wilderness, ORV, and Winter Recreation Manager
Cle Elum Ranger District"
We started our efforts a few years ago, reporting snowmobiles in Wildernesss beyond the Teanaway Crest. Sheriff and USFS have never managed to use any of our reports, for this or that reason. It is quite frustrating to hear the list of reasons from USFS why nothing can be done.
My thoughts have also included the role of the State, which registers snowmobiles and receives the fees. That money is used for Sno Parks and grooming, and some transferred by grants to USFS. Local Sheriff has the issues of funding and staffing and other logistical issues as well. My simple view is that they should charge enough to pay for real enforcement. It is State Law to regulate the operation of snowmobiles, as well as Federal Law. I pay $35 to pay for my snowmobile registration, perhaps add $25 to fund some enforcement?
The only real effective tool that USFS may wield is shown here, closure of more areas by Wilderness designation to control snowmobiles.
