Haslett, MI (Nov 23, 2004) The United States Senate and House of Representatives this past weekend enacted legislation to keep Yellowstone National Park open for winter recreationists. The legislative action affirms National Park Service rules to continue limited guided-snowmobile access on groomed roads in the Park, using only new technology snowmobiles. The affirmed rules also provide for snowcoach access and cross-country skiing in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks this winter.

The snowmobile community salutes and recognizes our elected officials for supporting American families that hope to enjoy the Park this winter.

The legislative action overrides efforts by animal rights activists and environmentalists to close the Park this winter. One group sought to halt all road grooming and close the Park to snowmobiles and snowcoaches, preventing winter visitors from enjoying any of the Park's famous destinations.

The legislative action guarantees Yellowstone National Park will be open to all Americans. Cross country skiers, snowmobilers, and tourists interested in visiting the park in snowcoaches will all be welcome to tour the park on the groomed roadways and enjoy the splendor of the Old Faithful geyser and the world class accommodations available at the Snow Lodge. Park Rangers will be able to continue to patrol the Park and ensure our safety.

As a result of Congress' efforts, the Park will be open this winter, and jobs will be maintained in the Gateway Communities. Those jobs generate tax dollars which allow for the maintenance of the city government and school systems in the Yellowstone region.

We are confident this will be a great year for winter enthusiasts in the Yellowstone area. We believe the truth will prevail and the environmental assessment recommendations, announced by the National Park Service, will be validated and Americans will continue to enjoy the park with their families and friends far into the future.