---

The multi-purpose training room at the Lindstrom Fire Hall was bustling with activity over three nights last week as a couple-dozen local youngsters participated in snowmobile certification class. The sessions were taught by several volunteer instructors (photo) who walk the youngsters through a variety of snowmobile-related lessons. Students also test-out on a snowmobile driving course at the Chisago Lakes High School grounds.

Doug Henning, county sheriff’s department, led the sessions. He told the students whenever there is inadequate snow base the operating test is held later and that they’d be receiving about a one-week notice for that exam.

Working alongside Henning in the sessions were two others from the sheriff’s department: Mary McCarthy and Scott Sellman. Also Jim Singer, Wild River Snowmobile Club and snowmobile enthusiasts John Schmalz, Mark Clark and Joel Peltier served as instructors.

The classes emphasize safety and respect...respect for rules, for equipment and for the environment. The novice snowmobilers were told to consider how their actions on their sleds effect non-snowmobilers, ie: are they being considerate of private property, personal safety, aware of noise and avoiding hazards.

To achieve the youth certificate students in this course took three sessions (two-and-a-half hours each) and did a reading homework assignment. They test out in written form and by showing proficiency of operation on a course.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website has a listing of the classes being held and this paper publishes information on local sessions.

FYI--

State law requires anyone born after Dec. 31, 1976 to hold state certification if you want to drive a snowmobile. Youth can start taking the class at age 11 through 15. Contact the DNR at 1-888-646-6367 or 651-296-6157 for details. The website is www.dnr.state.mn.us.

---