FSA grooming of snowmobile trails

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) awarded $115,000 to the Montana Department of Transportation on July 16, 2025, under the Recreational Trails Program (CFDA 20.219) to support snowmobile trail grooming and maintenance operations in the Flathead area. Through a sub-award arrangement, the Montana Department of Transportation directed these funds to the Flathead Snowmobile Association, a nonprofit organization responsible for operating and maintaining trail grooming equipment and performing routine grooming activities. The project encompasses the grooming and maintenance of 180 miles of snowmobile trails in the Flathead National Forest area, supporting winter recreational access for snowmobilers, snowbikes, tracked all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), fat-tire bikes, snowshoes, cross-country skiers, and hikers.

The Recreational Trails Program provides formula-based grants to states to develop and maintain recreational trails for both motorized and nonmotorized users. Eligible uses include trail maintenance, equipment acquisition, and trailhead improvements—all of which are reflected in this award. The Flathead Snowmobile Association's services under this grant include routine trail grooming operations, equipment maintenance and operation, volunteer coordination for trail maintenance efforts, and trailhead facility improvements to support safe and accessible winter recreational access across the region.

Project description

To fund the flathead snowmobile association for the flathead area snowmobile trail grooming and equipment maintenance project. This award funds the grooming of 180 miles of trails for winter recreation activities.