The Minnesota DNR Snowmobile Safety Training Course for Youth and Young Adults will be offered in Glenwood at the Glenwood Police Department to interested snowmobile operators age 11 and older who wish to obtain a safety certificate. Anyone born after Dec. 31, 1976, must have a snowmobile safety certificate in order to operate a snowmobile in Minnesota. In accordance with Minnesota Statute 84.872, youths between the ages of 12 and 14 who possess a training certificate are permitted to operate snowmobiles on public land and waters without being accompanied by a parent or guardian, and youths 14-18 are permitted to drive snowmobiles across state and county roads. It is unlawful for the owner of a snowmobile to permit the snowmobile to operate contrary to these provisions.

Parents should be aware that even though they may not presently own a snowmobile or wish for their children to operate one, there are times when children may have occasion to ride a snowmobile and, as such, it is important for them to have a basic understanding of snowmobile safety.

The course will include three sessions covering snowmobile operation, basic maintenance, laws and regulations, clothing, equipment and emergencies. You must attend all three days:

• Monday, Dec. 12, 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m.;

• Thursday, Dec. 15, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.; and

• Saturday, Dec. 17, 2 p.m.-driving course completion.

You MUST PRE-REGISTER by emailing Eric Thesing at eric.thesing@popecountymn.gov. Class size is limited to the first 25 students. The above end times are tentative. The class sessions will be held at the Glenwood Police Department, 137 E. Minnesota Ave., Glenwood. Students who enroll must be at least 11 years of age before the first class. Students should bring a copy of their birth certificate to verify their legal name. There is a $5 charge for the class but it will NOT be collected at class. The $5 will be paid online when you “Self-Certify” after successfully completing the class. 

The course will be conducted by snowmobile safety instructors in cooperation with Conservation Officers from the Department of Natural Resources. The course is sponsored by the Pope County Sheriff’s Office. Attendance is mandatory at all three sessions. Anyone with questions about the training program may contact Deputy Eric Thesing at the Pope County Sheriff’s Office at 320-634-5411. Or email: eric.thesing@popecountymn.gov.