Nordic Ski Club has a new state-of-the-art groomer thanks to the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).
On Friday, MPP Vic Fedeli visited the club and spoke with members who shared how the $150,000 capital grant awarded last year by OTF helped with the funds needed to buy the new Piston Bully trail groomer.
Club officials say the groomer arrived in January and provides reliable and consistent grooming for classic and skate skiing in a wider range of snow conditions than was previously possible.
“Our previous groomer was over 20 years old and we were seeing an increase in operation and maintenance costs,” said Andrew Rees, President, North Bay Nordic Ski Club. “This new groomer is much more efficient, provides important digital feedback to our drivers, and is more environmentally friendly. The result is better conditions, more reliable operation, and fewer lost days due to equipment problems. Consistent grooming not only attracts visitors and retains members, but is an important safety consideration for our skiers,” added Rees.
Officials say without the grant, purchasing the new groomer would have been difficult while keeping costs down for members and visitors. The Club currently has over 850 members and hosts many visitors, school groups, local and regional races, and other community events.
“The North Bay Nordic Ski Club is a valued part of our community, and the Ontario Trillium Fund’s Capital Grant program has provided funding to address the communities needs to have better-quality cross-country ski trails,” said Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing. “We are fortunate to have this gem of a facility so close to home.”
