It’s spring training mode for snowplow drivers.

D-O-T winter operations manager, Craig Bargfrede (Barg-freed), says just like athletes — plow drivers have to train to be ready when the real event comes.  That includes a strategy for plowing the new flyover bridge that opened this fall at the edge of  Ames.

The state has an arsenal of  902 trucks, 42 motor graders, 27 tow plows, and 11 heavy-duty, self-propelled snowblowers to attack the winter weather on the state roadways.