GUIDELINES FOR SNOWMOBILE TRAIL
           GROOMER OPERATOR TRAINING


A Resource Guide for Trail Grooming Managers and Equipment Operators:


Chapter 1 - Introduction To Trail Grooming
      .
Groomer Operator Training - Core Components Check List:

Every Groomer Operator Should Be Able To:

1. Demonstrate an Understanding of the Basics of
    Snowmobile Trail Grooming.
A) Understand trail grooming’s general purpose, objectives, principles, and practices, along with common terms used in trail grooming.

B) Understand the basic characteristics and mechanics of snow.

C) Understand the role and importance of grooming managers and schedules.
 
D) Understand the source and level of funding for their snowmobile trails.


2. Know the Grooming Equipment they are Operating 
    and Identify its Key Controls, Components, and
    Features.
A) Know the capabilities, characteristics, and limitations of their grooming tractor and front blade.

B) Identify key controls and components of their grooming tractor and front blade (steering, throttle, brakes, lights, mirrors, hydraulics, tracks, engine, hitch, etc.)

C) Know the capabilities, characteristics, and limitations of their grooming implement(s) (drag, tiller, or compactor bar as applicable).

D) Identify key features of their grooming implements (frame, blades, wheels, tongue, hydraulics, skags, pan, tines, drum, lights, etc. as applicable)


3. Start, Operate, And Control the Groomer.
A) Properly conduct a pre- and post-operation visual 
    inspection.
B) Operate and understand all in-cab controls, instruments, and gauges.
C) Start, stop, and park the vehicle.
D) Back up the vehicle and hook it up to implements.
E) Operate the vehicle on the right side of the trail.
F) Demonstrate proper technique to get the vehicle unstuck.
G) Demonstrate front blade functions and operation.
H) Demonstrate the function and operation of rear implements.


4. Demonstrate Good Operator Safety Procedures.
A) Be prepared by carrying tools, safety equipment, and proper clothing.
B) Ensure grooming equipment is always visible with lights and reflective material.
C) Always wear seat belts and operate cautiously when using front blade.
D) File trip plan and stay in communication with dispatch or manager.
E) Safely stop and park grooming equipment when on trail.
F) Safely secure grooming equipment that breaks down on the trail.
G) Avoid ice crossings.
H) Check equipment prior to departure.
I) Carry extra trail signs and replace when missing.
 

5. Demonstrate Proper Equipment Operation Techniques and Procedures.
A) Understand general grooming operating guidelines, including minimum snow
depth, best time to groom, the optimal temperature range for grooming, and
grooming procedures for when there is low visibility.
B) Understand grooming basics like: constantly watching the trail behind the
groomer; don’t leave holes, debris, or back-up piles on the trail; and know your
trail so you can anticipate grooming needs and adjustments.
C) Understand proper grooming speed and problems caused by grooming too fast.
D) Understand the proper technique for grooming curves, hills, and bridges.
E) Understand the difference between building and maintaining a trail base.
F) Understand what to do when meeting snowmobiles on the trail.
G) Understand proper grooming width and direction of travel.
H) Understand proper techniques for grooming with a drag.
I) Understand proper techniques for grooming with a tiller.
J) Understand proper techniques for use of a front blade.
K) Understand proper techniques and tips for operating tracked vehicles.
L) Know the Top 10 Operator Abuses


6. Perform Proper Equipment Inspection and Maintenance.
A) Understand the importance of preventative maintenance.
B) Practice the Four Elements of Preventative Maintenance.
C) Refuel and lubricate the equipment.
D) Perform pre-shift inspection and maintenance.
E) Periodically stop to perform walk-around inspection during grooming shift.
F) Perform post-shift inspection and maintenance.
G) Notify grooming manager of equipment maintenance needs.
H) Assist with pre-season, off-season, and regularly scheduled maintenance as
requested.


7. Perform Proper Record Keeping.
A) Complete Daily Groomer Operator’s Logs and Pre- and Post Operation
Checklists.
B) Keep accurate records of equipment use and maintenance.
C) Submit Equipment Maintenance Requests and Corrective Action forms.


8. Know the Local Area and Local Procedures.
A) Know local trail routes and have maps available for snowmobilers.
B) Know local trail signing guidelines.
C) Know local laws and any special closures for sensitive areas.
D) Know local emergency procedures and contact information.
.
 


   Next Section - Introduction to Snowmobile Trail
                             Grooming

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