Snowmobiling may be OKed on upstate N.Y. canal trail

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Snowmobiles may soon be allowed on parts of the 280-mile trail that runs along most of the canal system in upstate New York.

Officials say pilot projects were successful after the state Canal Corp. decided in 2009 to lift a ban on the machines along the recreational Canalway Trail.

Carmella Mantello, the corporation's executive director, says Wednesday that snowmobile clubs may now ask municipalities for resolutions supporting their applications for state permits to maintain and improve trails along the canals at the clubs’ own expense. They'll also have to show they have liability insurance.

Communities can decide against allowing the machines on their territory.

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