The damage caused by Irene is devastating and the amount of loss is overwhelming. Hurricane Irene

Damage assessment reports are slowly making their way to the VAST Office along with inquiries on how we are going to address the trail damage for the upcoming season. We are gathering information as reports are made, however we recognize that snowmobiling is a low priority right now as Vermonters are coping with loss, devastation and re-building their infrastructure and communities.

Some Reports Are In

Reports from the Shrewsbury, Randolph and Bethel areas have been positive, VAST Club members will persevere and have a “can-do” approach that no matter what happens, we will have trails to ride on this winter. As roads into communities are re-built and houses become homes again, snowmobiling will surface and we will have a trail system to recreate on this winter. As more assessment reports are submitted to the VAST Office and we have a good understanding of the extent of the damage, location and cost estimate, our objective is to try and open major corridor trails that link communities and other clubs together. If we focus on these connections, we can begin piecing the trail system together with emphasis on connecting the major N,S,E,W corridors. The VAST Trails Team will work with the VAST Clubs, County Trails Coordinators and Directors in identifying the highest priority trail routes, the cost of the project, and the feasibility of accomplishing the work in time for the season. It’s going to take a great deal of coordination, time on the ground and careful consideration in prioritizing the projects with bridges and culverts at the forefront of the long list of work to be done.

"...we recognize that snowmobiling is a low priority right now as Vermonters are coping with loss, devastation and re-building their infrastructure and communities."

Forest Service

Forest Service personnel have been working around the clock assessing 600+ miles of trail. Until they have a formal report, we will not know the extent of the damage and what will be considered for improvement/repair for the season. Partners such as VAST, the Green Mountain Club, Catamount Trails Association have been asked to refrain from checking on the status of the trails on FS land until conditions are safe and their assessments are completed.

"VAST Club members will persevere and have a “can-do” approach that no matter what happens, we will have trails to ride on this winter." 

Helping Hands

If you would like to help, please contact your local VAST Club and see what can be done to open trails this winter. Having a difficult time tracking down officers? Let Alexis or Matt know and we can help. There’s a lot to be done before we have an interconnected trail system – with a good plan and a great deal of effort, we will be riding in our favorite places this winter (pending snow).

Alexis C. Nelson
VAST Trails Administrator
(802) 229-0005 x13