Snowmobiling industry launches initiative to grow participation
Snowmobile manufacturers, clubs and industry organizations are joining forces through a new initiative aimed at growing participation and strengthening the future of snowmobiling across North America.
The International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association (ISMA) announced the launch of Go Snowmobiling on Nov. 12, bringing together Arctic Cat, BRP and Polaris, along with aftermarket companies, suppliers, snowmobile clubs and associations.
The initiative is designed to create a unified industry voice while addressing challenges facing the sport, including an aging rider and volunteer base, rising participation costs, competition for consumers’ time and growing concerns about land and trail access. North America has approximately 2 million registered snowmobiles and more than 2,500 snowmobile clubs, according to ISMA.
“The future of snowmobiling depends on all of us working together,” said Jaret Smith, ISMA president. “Go Snowmobiling is about bringing those resources together, welcoming the next generation of riders and making sure people have the information and opportunities they need to experience the sport.”
A central component of the initiative is GoSnowmobiling.com, which will provide information for people interested in getting started. Resources will address common questions about snowmobile rentals, required riding gear, local clubs and riding destinations.
The campaign also will emphasize rider safety, education and the social aspects of snowmobiling, while helping connect prospective riders with local, state, provincial and national organizations.
For existing riders, the initiative plans to showcase snowmobile destinations and bucket-list trips throughout North America, with content contributed by clubs and associations. The effort will highlight both established riding destinations and opportunities closer to home.
Advocacy also will be a priority, with the group working to increase awareness of issues affecting snowmobiling, including trail and land access, rider safety, sound and community impacts.
Industry participation will be important to the campaign’s success. ISMA is encouraging associations, clubs, riders and other industry partners to contribute ideas, content and resources.
Mark Rosacker, vice president of sales at Snow Goer, welcomed the initiative, pointing to the importance of bringing new participants into the sport and maintaining a consistent, positive message.
“As someone who’s been in the media and events side of snowmobiling for over 30 years plus a lifelong enthusiast, I know the importance of getting new people involved and showcasing our sport in a positive and consistent manner,” Rosacker said. “It takes the entire industry and endless club volunteers to make each riding season a success.”
For snowmobile manufacturers, dealers and aftermarket businesses, the initiative represents a coordinated effort to expand the potential customer base, support the volunteer network that maintains riding opportunities and address issues that could affect the sport’s long-term growth.
More information is available at GoSnowmobiling.com.
