RETURN CORRIDOR 5 NEAR DIAMOND POND TO ITS HOME! (the most traveled trail in the State)

Less than five years ago, snowmobile trail Corridor 5, a trail that starts in Hinsdale and ends at the Canadian border in Pittsburg, (the most traveled trail in the State) was rerouted just north of Diamond Pond. The new trail goes up and over Dead Water Ridge on land managed by Wagner Forest Management, LTD.

So, what is the problem?

The trail up over Dead Water Ridge was clear cut by Wagner and is on dirt/mud/ledge. It will not sustain vegetation, such as grass. Additionally, because it is along a clearcut area on the top of a ridge, the sun and the wind remove all the snow. Dirt/mud getting in the sliders of machines ruins them and the skis and the carbides take a beating., not something that snowmobilers want to happen! 

So, what is the solution?

Move the trail back on Roy Road, but unfortunately, now it is plowed, but could be used but similar results to what happens up on Dead Water Ridge. A better solution would be to cut a new trail along the North side of Roy Road. (This puts the trail back to where it originally was, but moves it further back, off the edge of the road). The Swift Diamond Riders Snowmobile Club President, Jeff Haynes, is fully supportive of this proposal, as running the Snowcats/groomers on the dirt/mud on the current trail damages the Club's equipment. 

What are the barriers to accomplishing this?

The proposed rerouting goes on Connecticut Lakes Headwaters Property (CLHP), 146,500 acres, that is owned by Bluesource Sustainable Forest Company (BSFC). The State of New Hampshire owns the recreational rights and roads on the property.  To reroute this trail, we need to obtain BSFC's permission. 

Who is Bluesource Sustainable Forest Company?
 
They are in the business of "managing former timberland to maximize carbon and ecological benefits." Shawn Hagan ([email protected]) is the Regional Director of Forest Operations for BSFC.