KOTA Territory NewsGovernor's Snowmobile Ride focuses on SD winter tourism

Governor's Snowmobile Ride focuses on SD winter tourism

There's been little snow across most of South Dakota this year.

But Saturday state lawmakers are on drive to show how great the trails are in the hills, and what they mean to the economy.

At the 32nd annual Governor's Snowmobile Ride, Governor Daugaard and Representative Kristi Noem led a number of local lawmakers and 170 riders, as they explored 55 miles of snowmobile trails.

Organizers say the ride showcases some of the best winter adventures the hills have to offer.

"We completed a study. 131 million dollars annually comes to South Dakota through snowmobile sales, clothing, jobs. It's a huge part of South Dakota economics," said Greg Hiles, President of the South Dakota Snowmobile Association.

Governor Daugaard says winter recreation profits would be nowhere near where they are without the trails, and it's thanks to maintenance from Game Fish and Parks.

"If the public hasn't been out and seen the wonderful grooming machines we have to keep the trails nice and smooth, they should go to some other states where the trails are not groomed, and they will soon appreciate what a great trail system we have in South Dakota," said Governor Dennis Daugaard.

The governor's ride began during one of Bill Janklow's terms as governor.