New Plow Drivers Get Ready for Road

With winter on the doorstep, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal is gearing up to combat the elements in eastern Nova Scotia.

The department has started training 28 new snowplow operators at its Port Hawkesbury base to work the coming winter season in Antigonish, Guysborough, and Cape Breton. The two-week course began with classroom work but will move outside for behind-the-wheel practice during a snow plow rodeo Friday, Nov. 27.

"So far it's been all talk," said training co-ordinator Kevin Landry. "Tomorrow they get a chance to put the pedal to the metal."

When the two-week training session is finished, the newly trained operators will receive 45 hours of practical experience with an experienced driver where they can apply what they learn in the classroom.

"Driving a snowplow is no easy job," says Mr. Landry. "They are worth more than $200,000 and drivers have to be trained to use wings, slides, chutes, spinners and the onboard computer."

Drivers are tested after they complete their 45 hours of road experience. Those who are successful will receive their snow fighters designation and become part of the department's winter maintenance operations crew.

The training rodeo starts at 9 a.m. on Friday at the Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Port Hawkesbury base, 1420 Trunk 4 (next to the Atlantic SuperStore).

More information about winter road maintenance and road safety in Nova Scotia can be found at www.gov.ns.ca/tran/winter .