Yellowstone Winter Use Plan Study Supports Snowmobiling
Contact Ed Klim - July 2007

Click here to open graphs (.pdf)

The recently conducted study on Winter Use for Yellowstone National Park again supports responsible, managed snowmobiling to continue in the park.  The recommendations from the Park Service are consistent with the statutory objectives of visitor use and enjoyment, codified in the National Park Organic Act of 1916.  As demonstrated conclusively in the Environmental Impact Study and comprehensive underlying studies, continued snowmobile use in portions of Yellowstone and Grand Teton road systems have no adverse impacts on Park Resources, including: Air Quality, Wildlife, or Soundscapes, while providing visitors an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the winter splendor of the park.

The proposal put forward by the Park Service is supported by the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association and is also supported by studies conducted by other related agencies.

When reviewing the Yellowstone Park issue, one must remember that Yellowstone Park's famous road system was constructed in the late 1800's and was first open to automobile traffic in 1916 - as Congress enacted the National Park Organic Act.  Many thousands of automobiles, busses, trucks, RVs, Motor Homes and Motorcycles enter the park on a typical summer day.  Approximately 1.8 million vehicles enter Yellowstone National Park each summer season.

The National Park Service recognizes the new technologies the snowmobile manufacturers have brought to the market.  The new vehicles are environmentally sound vehicles and exceed all standards put forth by the US EPA and by the National Park Service Proposed Winter Use Plan.

Many studies have been conducted on the impact of snowmobiles in Yellowstone and Grand Teton on the Bison and Elk Population.  Additional scientific studies were conducted on sound and emission standards required by the Federal Government and the Park Service.

Attached to this article are a number of graphs containing information from the Park Service, which depict the studies findings.

It is easy to view the graphs and determine that snowmobiling does no environmental harm to the Park.  The government studies support the use of snowmobiles in Yellowstone as the preferred method to enjoy the Park and view all the winter wonders that nature has provided us in Yellowstone.  Please review the graphs which support the continued responsible use of managed snowmobiling on the road system in Yellowstone National Park.