The Assembly Committee on Forestry, Parks and Outdoor Recreation convened on May 2, 2023, to discuss Assembly Bill 130, which focuses on funding for snowmobile trail maintenance in Wisconsin. Key testimony was provided by representatives from the LMT Lumberjack Memorial Club and other snowmobile organizations in Forest County.

The primary speaker emphasized that the funding in question is not new money but rather existing funds generated through the snowmobile pass program. Forest County boasts over 400 miles of snowmobile trails, including significant routes like the Wolf River State Trail and the Nicolay State Trail, which attract riders from across the state, particularly during snowy conditions.

The speaker highlighted the pressing need for daily grooming of these trails, noting that their clubs often exceed the current funding cap. For instance, the LMT club reported a deficit of approximately $30,000 this year and had previously exceeded funding limits by around $82,000 two years ago. The club is currently in the process of purchasing a new groomer, which costs $290,000, and they own three groomers that require replacement every three to four years.

The reliance on volunteer efforts was also a significant point of discussion. The speaker indicated that to cover the current deficit, the club would need to organize six additional weekends of fundraising, which is challenging given their volunteer-based structure. Additionally, past estimates suggest that snowmobile tourism contributes about $2 million in revenue to Forest County, underscoring the economic importance of maintaining these trails.

The meeting underscored the critical need for adequate funding to support snowmobile trail maintenance, which is vital for both recreational use and local economic health. The committee's discussions will likely influence future funding decisions and the sustainability of snowmobiling in the region.