Dudley named 2011 DNR Snowmobile Safety Instructor of the Year

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Dudley named 2011 DNR Snowmobile Safety Instructor of the Year
(Released February 16, 2012)

A Lake City man who has helped more than 600 students earn their snowmobile safety certificate has been named the 2011 Snowmobile Safety Instructor of the Year by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Wayne Dudley, a DNR certified snowmobile safety instructor since 1986, was presented the award Feb. 11 at the Minnesota United Snowmobile Association (MnUSA) Winter Rendezvous in Fairmont, Minn.

“Wayne is a fine example of an outstanding snowmobiler, promoting safety and the sport of snowmobiling,” said Capt. Mike Hammer, DNR Enforcement Education Program coordinator. “Safe operation is crucial to a great snowmobiling experience.”

Dudley has been active in the Cliff and Coulee Climbers Snowmobile Club for nearly 34 years, including a term as club president, as well as serving as a regional director for MnUSA.

Hammer said the DNR Enforcement Education/Safety Section is thankful to the thousands of volunteers like Dudley who step up and deliver DNR safety programs to youth in their local communities.

In Minnesota, anyone born after Dec. 31, 1976, must have a snowmobile safety certificate to operate a snowmobile. Children under 12 may drive snowmobiles on public lands, public waters, or grant-in-aid trails if accompanied by an adult. Youth ages 12-13 may drive snowmobiles on public lands or waters if accompanied by an adult or in possession of a valid snowmobile safety certificate. People ages 14-18 may drive a snowmobile across state or county roads if in possession of a snowmobile safety certificate, driver’s license or ID card with a valid snowmobile indicator.

For safety training information or a copy of the DNR’s 2011-2012 Minnesota Snowmobile Safety Laws, Rules, and Regulations handbook, call the DNR information Center at 651-296-6157 or toll-free 888-646-6367.