It’s nearly the end of March and while the official call has not been made to close down the trail systems in the Northwoods, the season’s days are certainly numbered.

With things winding down, the Sno-Eagles Snowmobile Club held its recent general meeting at the Veterans Resource Center in Eagle River, where they elected officers as well as recognized the Volunteers of the Year and Groomer Operator of the Year.

The club elected Rusty Wolf as president, Cindy Fruhwirth as secretary, and Jay Kolling and Pam Hupf as directors.

Outgoing President Roger Rosenthal shared some thoughts on his tenure, thanking the board of directors, officers, members, volunteers, and many people and businesses that helped make it another successful snowmobiling year.

“Your generosity, commitment, and belief in Sno-Eagles are the backbone of this club and the reason it continues to thrive,” he said.

“The past few years tested us. We endured winters with little to no snow, yet the club stayed strong,” Rosenthal continued. “Through continued fundraising efforts and a commitment to operating as lean and responsibly as possible, we worked together to remain financially sound and ready for better seasons ahead.”

He called the 2026 winter season “nothing short of outstanding,” adding that there was excellent snowfall for the first time in more than two years. He also highlighted the “countless hours put in by dedicated groomer operators” which made it possible to keep the trail system in top-notch condition.

“While extreme weather and mechanical challenges occasionally slowed us down, our grooming and mechanical teams pushed through, proving once again the pride, teamwork, and determination that define Sno-Eagles.”

Rosenthal also extended a special thanks to the coordinators of the club’s fundraising efforts as well as the brushing and signing crews who keep trails clear and properly marked all season long.

“By keeping trails clear and properly marked, they ensure rider safety, protect our landowners, and maintain the directional integrity of our trail system. Sno-Eagles would not function without their dedication,” he said.

Finally, he thanked everyone for the trust, support and camaraderie given throughout his tenure as president, and said he’s excited to see the next era of leadership build on the momentum.

Volunteer honors

Countless hours go into each winter season to keep Northwoods trails in top riding condition, by the Sno-Eagles as well as all the other area clubs.

In the spirit of highlighting those dedicated individuals who make each season a success, this year’s Sno-Eagles Volunteers of the Year were Corey McGovern and Jake McGovern, who have helped with the trail brushing, signing and fencing over the past few years.

“Corey and Jake are always that needed set of hands, no matter how cold, rainy, or windy it is, and no matter how late, or early in the day it is,” Sno-Eagles leadership said. “They always respond to unforeseen requests and always have a positive attitude. They are pleasant to work with, calm, and are forward thinking in terms of improvement.”

Jay Kolling was named Groomer Operator of the Year, with club officials calling him “a very valuable asset to our organization.”

“Jay has become a proficient operator in his first year of grooming and has been very flexible with his schedule whenever called upon,” they said. “Jay has volunteered time for club events, brushing, and will be assisting in equipment maintenance.”

Trails still open

After a warmup led to a brief closure earlier this month, trail systems in Vilas and Oneida counties have been open since March 13 and 17, respectively. No closing date has been set at the time of this publication’s print deadline, but all public trails must close each year by March 31 due to land easements and insurance expirations.