SALEM The Oregon Department of Transportation warns motorists that Sunday, March 31, is the end of the studded tire season for the states highways.

People should remove their studded tires by then.

Officials say they dont expect to extend the season as they have in some past years, when snowy weather lingered.

The Oregon and Washington transportation departments have coordinated their schedules so the season ends at the same time in both states.

Oregon officials also urge motorists to consider using other types of traction tires or chains in the future. A study completed in 2000 concluded studded tires cause at least $40 million damage each year on city streets, county roads and state highways.

Other types of traction tires meet Rubber Manufacturers Association standards for use in severe snow conditions and carry a special symbol on the tire sidewall showing a three-peaked mountain and snowflake.