Some change the oil every year if the don't put on the hours I go every 200 hours on engine oil and filter , and I keep them inside the barn out of the weather
So when you check the filter what are you looking for. I mean other than leaks there isn't really much to check is there. It's the same as a car more or less isn't it.
Same as a car just check oil level on the dip stick and the filter for leaks , sometimes the get hit with branches etc and might leak ( others have posted it )
You can use Mobil delvac 15/40 or Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic Heavy Duty Engine Oil ,It depends on how much money you want to spend and how cold it gets up there If you use it to plow snow synthetic will flow better in the cold easy starting
The winters get cold, -10 to -30C. This year we have a pile of snow so I'll take your advise and go synthetic. It is not synthetic now is there any issues switching?