Petition to Reopen Trails for Snowmobiling in Little John Forest

 The Issue:

The Tug Hill region has long been a beloved area for snowmobilers, attracting visitors from across New York and neighboring states such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Connecticut. Riders are drawn to the region’s stunning winter landscapes and deep snowfall — ideal conditions for snowmobiling for all ages.

For over 25 years, a main corridor trail known as C5a and S54 trails, along with additional secondary routes through Little John Forest, have been essential to the snowmobiling community. These trails offered access to remote areas otherwise unreachable during the winter. However, in recent years, these key routes have been unexpectedly closed, greatly disrupting access and harming the snowmobiling experience.

 The Impact:

These trail closures have not only affected snowmobilers — they've severely impacted the local economy. Businesses like hotels, local rentals, restaurants, gas stations, and service providers rely heavily on snowmobile tourism to survive the winter season. Without these visitors, many of them face serious financial hardship.

The closures also create safety concerns, as snowmobilers are forced onto public roads shared with vehicles and plows — a dangerous and less enjoyable alternative.

 Our Request:

We respectfully urge the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to reopen the main corridor trail C5a, S54, and other secondary trails within Little John Forest, including the Wildlife Management Area, for snowmobiling this winter.

Doing so will:

• Revive a cherished winter tradition
• Support local jobs and businesses
• Provide safer, designated riding areas
• Maintain access for other recreational users like hunters

 Environmental Considerations:

The DEC has cited concerns over soil erosion, tree root damage, and disturbances — particularly from ATVs — as reasons for closure. However:

These trails were originally developed in coordination with a DEC biologist using the best environmental practices.

Over 25+ years, there have been no complaints or documented environmental issues related to snowmobile use on these trails. 
Snowmobiles, when used properly and in-season, have minimal impact on trail surfaces compared to other vehicles.

 Permitting & Trail Preparation Challenges:

Our snowmobile club does not control when we receive our Temporary Revocable Permit (TRP). These permits often arrive in late fall, which limits our ability to:

• Conduct pre-season trail work
• Respond to maintenance or environmental concerns
  Address any issues raised before trails open
• Earlier permit issuance would allow us to better meet DEC expectations.

 A Collaborative Path Forward:

We are ready and willing to work with the DEC to:

• Improve trail maintenance schedules
• Minimize environmental impact
• Explore reasonable alternatives to full closure
• We also believe that the existing trail routes have the least environmental impact.  

Of the 7,918 acres, currently there are woodland and gravel truck trails located within the area consisting of less then 1% of the total state acreage.  DEC-stated the club should be looking for reroutes. These  may actually cause more disruption and should be reconsidered. 

 Additional Use:

These trails aren't just for snowmobiles. They are also used by hunters to access deep woods that would otherwise be unreachable due to dense vegetation. Their closure restricts access for multiple groups of outdoor enthusiasts.

 Join Us in Advocacy:

We call on state officials to reopen the trails this winter season. Your signature sends a clear message:

Snowmobiling is vital to our region’s economy, safety, and outdoor tradition. These trails must remain open for current and future generations to enjoy. 

Sign the Petition Today!

Help us restore access to Little John Forest for snowmobiling.

Your support will ensure that snowmobiling remains a cherished tradition for generations to come, providing a positive impact on the local economy, safety, and winter recreation.

Thank you for standing with us on behalf of snowmobilers, local businesses, and the community.

William A. Barclay

District 120

BarclayW@nyassembly.gov

19 Canalview Mall

Fulton, NY 13069

315-598-5185

LOB Office 933

Albany, NY 12248

518-455-3751

Senator Mark Walczyk's Office

ALBANY OFFICE

Legislative Office Building, Room 302

Albany,  NY 12247

Phone: 518-455-3438

Fax: 518-426-6740

DISTRICT OFFICE

317 Washington Street

Dulles State Office Building, Suite 418

Watertown,  NY 13601

Phone: 315-782-3418

 

CHUCK SCHUMER

U.S. SENATOR

FOR NEW YORK

100 South Clinton Street

Room 841

Syracuse, NY 13261

Phone: (315) 423-5471

Fax: (315) 423-5185

Kirsten Gillibrand

U.S. SENATOR

James M. Hanley Federal Bldg

100 South Clinton St, Rm 1470

PO Box 7378

Syracuse, NY 13261

Tel. (315) 448-0470

Fax (202) 224-0064

 

Bob Korosec

Trail Coordinator

New York State Snowmobile Association

www.nysnowmobiler.com​

888-624-3849 Ext. 102

NYSDEC Region 7 Cortland Sub-office 
1285 Fisher Ave
Cortland, NY 13045

Phone: 607-753-3095

Dereth Glance

Deputy Commissioner
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)

(315) 426-7403

Dereth.Glance@dec.ny.gov

Michaell Putnam

N.Y. State Dec Biologist Region 7

Michaell.putnam@Dec.ny.gov

315-635-7017

Pulaski Boylston Snowmobile Club

5001 N. Jefferson St. Pulaski, NY  

315.298.3522  

Secretary.PulaskiBoylstonSnow@GMAIL.com

Thank you for your support on behalf of snowmobilers, local businesses, and the community.