(Salem, OR) -- Snow tire season begins today. Oregon motorists can legally start using studded tires on their vehicles beginning today. The Oregon Department of Transportation says the season stretches to March 31st, but they hope alternatives are available. Studded tires reportedly cause a lot of damage to the state's roadways, to the tune of eight-and-a-half-million dollars. Other types of traction tires or chains are recommended for travel to icy areas.