Most of the year-round work done by our clubs and volunteers goes on behind the scenes. Same goes for work done by OFSC volunteers and staff to represent the interests of organized snowmobiling to all levels of government.

One continuing way to do so happened again recently when OFSC staff attended the 2023 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) AGM & Conference. With up to $3.3 billion in economic activity generated across Ontario each year, OFSC trail riding provides much needed economic stimulus to these municipalities, and the support of their elected officials to ensure trails remain connected and accessible to our member clubs is vital to the OFSC provincial trail system.

At ROMA, we had the opportunity to support our districts, clubs and trails in many snowbelt communities and to discuss current wins and challenges involving rural municipalities over the two-day event. Hundreds of conversations took place about a variety of topics including trails, infrastructure, economic benefit, other local issues, and how we can accomplish more working together at the provincial and local levels. We were also able to advocate for organized snowmobiling with many provincial and federal officials and senior staff in attendance and provide background information on organized snowmobiling in Ontario.

To continue and expand on these important meeting opportunities, the OFSC is also planning to attend the 2023 Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Conference in August.