04/08/2026
The 2026 Kandiyohi Co. Snowmobile Landowners Banquet is in the books. It was hosted by the West Central Snow Drifters, based in Atwater, and the Kandi Sno-Skippers, based in Willmar, MN.
The banquet is held each year to provide an opportunity for the clubs to express their thanks to the landowners, who graciously allow us to use their land to create our snowmobile trails. Providing access to hundreds of miles of trails in Kandiyohi co. to enjoy the outdoors each winter.
There were 120 landowners and guests attending this year. We enjoyed an excellent meal cooked up for us by the great staff at the Willmar American Legion. Everyone I spoke with remarked on the quality of the meal. We then drew for door prizes provided by the two snowmobile clubs, which consisted of embroidered caps and $50 cash prizes. I did have a gentleman mention to me afterwards that these prizes are not necessary, but they did enjoy hoping to hear their name called!
A Q&A session followed. The questions revolved around funding and how much time we were able to get out on the trails.
In Minnesota, there are over 22,000 miles of dedicated snowmobile trails. Approximately 11,000 of these miles are on private land! This is all made possible by the landowners. Each year, local clubs and trail associations reach out and contact these generous people to establish and maintain the trail system for another season.
Again, this year, Mother Nature had different ideas for our region. But each season we say, “This year is going to be great!” and we go out and mow, cut away fallen trees, clear brush, and put in the signs for snowmobilers to enjoy the trails.
According to Headwaters Economics, “Snowmobiling in Minnesota generates over $130 million in annual Gross State Product (GSP) and supports over 2,700 jobs through direct spending on trips, fuel, and lodging. Including manufacturing and retail, the industry drives nearly $200 million in total economic activity and provides significant winter tourism revenue, especially during snowy seasons.
I want to take this opportunity to say Thank You once again to the landowners, who make all this possible. We are grateful for your generosity.
For next year, THINK SNOW!!
Contributed by
Daniel Edwards
Photos provided by
Ricky Whitcomb
(Thanks, Ricky! I did not get a chance to take any.)
