Snowmobile Resources Task

Following on the Pitcher search there was a broad discussion on the need for snowmobilers. We need to be able to deploy 6 expert-level mountain sledders. Assuming 50% availability, we should have a roster of 12. Intermediate sledders need to be able to look after themselves in self-sufficient teams. Generally it is counter productive to combine expert and intermediate sledders in the same team. It would take two years of weekly aggressive off-trail mountain snowmobiling to develop an expert-level mountain sledder.

Old skills are still good. Former sledders (e.g. Roy) can be expected to perform at their former skill level if a snowmobile is provided.

There are non-SAR member expert sledders in the area
It is difficult to keep them involved in SAR. Perhaps a special role should be developed for them:
 * Jack Daignault
 * James Kenny
 * Roy Reed
 * Jim Baird (ski hill)
 * Brock Smith (CNP)
 * Doug and Brenda Beer (Lethbridge).


 * SAR involvement limited to snowmobile incidents
 * no SAR Fundamentals
 * avalanche course
 * course in 24-hour self sufficiency

Ideas for recruiting members and resources
There needs to be a way to rate the skills of new members/resources.
 * work with the CNP snowmobile club
 * advertise
 * poster at ski hill, lethbridge
 * fax to dealers

Eric agreed to take the lead in developing specific recommendations in this area.