The Estevan Snowmobile Club is off to a strong start this winter season, thanks to new trail grooming equipment and solid community support. The club is eager to provide snowmobiling enthusiasts with a safe and exciting season.
This year marks a significant improvement for the club, which has implemented a new “snow buncher” system. Introduced last year, the equipment helps clear and set trails more efficiently, even in low-snow conditions. Club president Darcy Yergens explained how the system works and the impact it has had on their operations.
“The snowmobile pulls this snow buncher, which scoops up the snow, and then wherever we need to put a sign or stake, we just lift it hydraulically and it leaves a pile of snow,” Yergens explained. “That pile sets up, gives us a good firm base to put our stake or sign, and then we come along with the staking sled behind, put in the stake or the sign, and carry on.”
Yergens noted that this system has greatly improved the club’s trails compared to previous years, particularly during low-snow seasons when stakes could blow over or fall down.
“With this new buncher, it works fantastic in low-snow conditions,” Yergens said. “Now we can have well-marked trails, and it’s made a real difference to trail setup.”
Fortunately, this winter has brought better snowfall, a welcome change from last year, which Yergens described as a “no snow year.” Seasons with minimal snow can have a negative financial impact on the club, as it receives funding from the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association (SSA) based on snowmobile registrations. Yergens explained that around $100 from each registered snowmobile goes to the SSA, which then splits the funds among clubs across the province.
“While we have enough money to cover expenses, that funding is beneficial to the club,” Yergens said.
The club has already set up its main trail from Estevan to Shelter 361 and aims for a smooth season through March. "We aim for our trails to be open for three months," Yergens said. Community involvement plays a key role in the club’s success, with many volunteers helping set up, stake, and groom the trails.
Snowmobiling continues to be a popular activity in the Estevan area, with nearly 40 active members and hundreds of snowmobilers using the trails each winter. The club offers a safe and controlled environment that appeals to both families and seasoned snowmobilers.
“We want the sport to be safe and entertaining for everyone,” Yergens said.
The Estevan Snowmobile Club also offers designated staging areas where riders can unload and start their adventures. While snowmobiling within city limits is permitted, riders are reminded to respect speed limits and local regulations. Snowmobilers should maintain speeds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour within town limits. Enforcement of these rules, including monitoring by RCMP for registrations, speed limits, and alcohol use, is essential for safety, Yergens added.
“The RCMP helps us maintain a safe and fun environment,” he said.
Looking ahead, Yergens encourages those interested to follow the club’s social media pages for updates on upcoming rides and events. The club is planning evening rides to one of its shelters, providing an opportunity for snowmobilers to come together for some social fun.
The Estevan Snowmobile Club is grateful for the support of local businesses and landowners, which makes its operations possible.
“We can’t do this without the support of our local landowners and businesses. It’s a true team effort,” Yergens said.