The OFSC Trail Patrol Program commenced in 1983 at the inception of the user-pay system. Trail Patrol members volunteer their time and the use of their personal equipment to be snow-mobile ambassadors. These volunteers are clearly identifiable by their Trail Patrol vest, and each member also carries their Trail Patrol ID issued by the OFSC.
The BEAST Trail Patrol is currently comprised of about 36 members who patrol as their individual time permits during the week, weekends and evenings. Patrols generally consist of two Trail Patrol members but occasionally include four to eight members. During the 2017/18 season, BEAST Trail Patrol Members logged fewer hours the normal due to the local trail conditions, but we were still out there when possible. We have members stationed all over the BEAST Trail system including Stittsville, Richmond, Almonte, Barrhaven, Carleton Place, and Munster Hamlet.
The primary function of Trail Patrol is public awareness and safety. Trail Patrol member’s duties are centered around activity on OFSC Prescribed Trails and may be summarized into four broad categories:
- On-Trail Support: Trail Patrol members provide on-trail support in the form of maps, safety equipment, directions, help and updated information on trail conditions.
- Safety Promotion: Members promote safe riding by reminding snowmobilers of safe riding practice.
- Risk Management: Trail Patrol members actively identify and report unsafe or unusual conditions, remove branches and report safety issues to the club.
- Landowner Agent: As the agent for the landowner, a Trail Patrol has the authority to lay a notice of Trespass to Property charge.
Members of the Trail Patrol will be out again this season checking for permits, providing assistance, information and generally making sledders feel welcome on the trails. Our goal is to ensure the trails are safe and to promote the positive image of snowmobiling.
You can help too! If you can commit to 10 to 15 hours of riding over the winter season, we are always looking for new volunteers. Getting started involves an introduction session to the four categories shown above and some on the snow excursions to familiarize you with day-to-day activities on the trail.
Contact trailpatrol@thebeast.ca