Snowmobiling is a great outdoor pastime which contributes millions to the state’s economy. Unfortunately, like any other human activity, it also attracts its share of selfish dolts.

There are, of course, those who drive drunk, or too fast, or who venture out on thin ice. They are a menace to themselves and others, and they have been a persistent problem for the Maine Warden Service for years.

Now, finally, the Warden Service has decided to address another major nuisance – snowmobilers who modify their exhaust systems and ruin the serenity of the backwoods for homeowners, wildlife and other visitors.

Years ago, there was no such thing as a quiet snowmobile. They were all loud, but there were also a lot fewer of them.

Since then, manufacturers have worked diligently to address this complaint and threat to their industry. Now, new snowmobiles arrive from the factory with engines that emit little more noise than a pickup truck or car.

But not all snowmobilers are happy about that. They replace their factory-installed exhaust systems with after-market equipment that is much louder.

The reason, they say, is to increase the power output of their sleds. Ironically, experts say this has little or no impact on horsepower, and may even decrease a sled’s speed and power.

Instead, as many suspect, people who switch muffler systems are more likely just egotistical jerks who like sounding louder and nastier than the next guy.

Whatever the reason, having loud pipes is illegal in Maine. But it’s discouraging that the real reason behind this campaign seems to be self-preservation.

More and more landowners are complaining to the Warden Service. Since most snowmobile trails travel over private property, landowners can, and have, shut down trails to snowmobiles in response.

Since snowmobiles contribute an estimated $350 million annually to Maine’s economy, the state has an interest in keeping these trails open, providing the impetus for this crackdown.

It’s too bad Maine citizens don’t have the same sort of leverage when it comes to an even bigger public nuisance – loud pipes on motorcycles.

Switching exhaust systems on motorcycles is just as illegal, yet the public has been complaining about this problem for years without effect.

We applaud the Warden Service for its crackdown on loud snowmobiles, and we hope it makes a difference. If it does, perhaps it will increase the pressure on local police departments to crack down on the even larger menace of loud motorcycles.