Our Story
Since 1972, the Oregon State Snowmobile Association has been the statewide voice for Oregon snowmobilers—protecting riding opportunities, supporting local clubs, promoting safe and responsible recreation, and preserving Oregon's winter trail system for future generations.
Dr. Ken Haevernick
Founder and First President
Oregon State Snowmobile Association (1972)
The Oregon State Snowmobile Association (OSSA) was founded in 1972 by a group of dedicated Oregon snowmobilers led by Dr. Ken Haevernick, who recognized that the future of snowmobiling in Oregon depended on having a unified voice.
After learning that the Oregon Legislature was considering legislation that could ban snowmobiles from the state, Ken immediately began bringing together clubs from across Oregon. Working alongside Wally Gibson and other early leaders, he organized meetings in Bend that resulted in the formation of OSSA and the election of its first Board of Directors, with Ken serving as the Association's first president.
OSSA's original mission was simple but critical: to protect the rights of snowmobilers and preserve access to Oregon's public lands.
As OSSA grew, that mission expanded. During OSSA's second year, Ken championed the idea of trail grooming after seeing its success in Canada. That vision helped launch Oregon's first organized snowmobile grooming program and laid the foundation for the statewide trail system riders enjoy today.
Our Mission
To protect, promote, and enhance the family sport of snowmobiling.
How We Fulfill our Mission
Protect Riding Opportunities
OSSA works year-round to protect riding opportunities and ensure the future of snowmobiling in Oregon.
Partner with Public Land Managers
We work closely with the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and other public land managers to help keep riding areas open, resolve conflicts, and support the quality snowmobiling Oregon is known for.
Advocate for Snowmobilers
We also work with local, state, and federal lawmakers to protect the rights of snowmobilers, oppose legislation that could harm the sport, and support policies that strengthen Oregon’s snowmobiling community.
Support Clubs and Volunteers
Through partnerships with local clubs, volunteers, industry leaders, and national and international snowmobile organizations, we share knowledge, provide mutual support, promote responsible recreation, and protect the sport we all love.
Together, we're protecting Oregon's snowmobiling future.
Snowmobilers Leave No Trace