Under the Canal Corporation pilot program, approximately five snowmobile pilot programs have operated in different parts of New York State on Canal lands since 1998.  All clubs have acted responsibly during this time and have helped to maintain the trails.

Dave Perkins, Trails Coordinator for the New York State Snowmobile Association, said, "This action by the Thruway Authority/Canal Corporation Board represents an opportunity for snowmobile clubs to utilize canal lands to complete significant trail linkages in the statewide snowmobile trail system. As shown in Washington County, Montgomery County, Onondaga County and Orleans County, snowmobile clubs will accept the responsibility to work with state and local government to provide safe and well-maintained snowmobile trails. Canalside businesses and those on adjoining trails will benefit economically with these trail linkages in place."

Carmella R. Mantello, Director of the New York State Canal Corporation, said, "By working with local municipalities to allow snowmobiling on Canal lands, the Canal System will truly become a year round destination.  In addition to the activities already taking place throughout the winter months, communities will now be able to reap the recreational and economic benefits of snowmobiling.  The Corporation is pleased to partner with New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the New York State Snowmobile Association to make this a reality."

Canal Corporation staff will begin the State Administrative Procedure Act (SAPA) process to amend the Canal Rules and Regulations to provide flexibility to allow snowmobiling by permit on a case-by-case basis.  The SAPA process takes approximately nine months to one year.

Press Release by The New York State Canal Corporation;
http://www.nyscanals.gov/news/pressrel/2009/2009-04-02-snowmobiling.html