With the first official snow of winter having passed, there’s a reminder for those who enjoy being outdoors in it while it’s around.

Guthrie County Conservation Director Brad Halterman says to snowmobile operators that there are regulations when it comes to being on the Raccoon River Valley Trail. He tells Raccoon Valley Radio that at least four inches of snow must be on the ground before the machines can travel the trail.

“That’s just to help keep the trail in the best shape possible. And again, also allow the snowmobilers a place to recreate that way too.”

Halterman adds that the trail is the only public land in the county that snowmobiles are allowed on, besides other different trails along roadside ditches. He adds that other things that can be done on the trail are hiking and biking when weather permits.