Volunteers for the Hazelton Cross Country Ski Society have been working hard to adapt a Suzuki Carry for grooming cross-country ski trails. The major modifications have been lifting the truck so that tracks can be installed for driving on the snow and towing a cross-country ski groomer.
The purchase of the vehicle and the parts necessary for its modification was made possible by the generous support of the Bulkley Valley Credit Union Hazelton Branch Legacy Grant.
The HXCSS performed substantial research to decide to buy a Suzuki Carry for the purpose of grooming. Other options considered included a snowmobile, a quad on tracks, a snow dog, a side-by-side on tracks, and a snow cat.
The HXCSS talked to ski clubs who have had success using a mini-truck and found the mini-truck to be an affordable entry-level option. In addition to the purchase price, the cost of maintenance and parts was considered. The cost of servicing and maintenance of a mini-truck is lower than the other options because it can be maintained by automotive shops or local volunteer mechanics, and non-dealership specific parts are readily available. A mini-truck also has lower fuel consumption and its engine is well-suited to the low gearing and low speeds required for grooming ski trails.
The mini-truck option fits the unique geography and vision of the HXCSS because it is light enough to be towed by a half ton pick-up. Gitxsan Territory hosts over ten villages and rural communities. Part of the HXCSS long-term vision is to have a mobile grooming unit that can groom cross-country ski trails in various places and communities on Gitxsan Territory. Ensuring that the grooming unit is mobile is an important feature that is specific to the geography of our collective communities.
The mini-truck can be used year round on roads or off-road. It has convenient storage space for tools and gear, and is able to have implements attached to it such as a snowplow blade, a brush mower, a groomer, or a utility trailer.
The comfort of volunteer groomers was also essential in choosing the mini-truck option. The mini truck is easy to use and comfortable for volunteers to operate. It has an enclosed cabin with heating and air conditioning, a music player, and a seat available for a passenger which will make the 5am grooming shift an enjoyable experience.
The funds are an important boost for the HXCSS to achieve their goals for the community in building a cross-country ski trail and grooming program. The funds will go towards a combination of objectives including hiring a local artist to design a logo, purchasing grooming equipment, and assessment studies required to build the cross-country ski trail.
The Bulkley Valley Credit Union writes that they are proud to be "People helping people... both in our financial services and through direct involvement with our communities" (BVCU, 2021). It feels important to the HXCSS to be entrusted with the 80th Anniversary Legacy Award because of the BVCU's dedication to supporting local programs.
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