Spring is just around the corner which means the Strathmore Lions Outdoor Rink and the Terry Ray Clark ice surfaces are now closed for the season. 

It was a very up and down season with the weather and the operations teams had to work diligently to maintain these surfaces through several freeze-thaw cycles this winter. 

Town of Strathmore Communications Manager Geoff Person explained more on what was one of the biggest effects on the ice surfaces this year.

"February was a challenging month for our outdoor ice surfaces. We went from mid-teen high temperatures to almost minus 40. With the forecast above zero for the next 7-10 days, we can’t maintain outdoor ice surfaces, so the Lions Outdoor Rink and the surface at Terry Ray Clark Park will soon be completely melted."

With the last warm weather thaw completely melting both ice surfaces and warmer weather on the way a full flood to both surfaces is not feasible to create good ice for skaters. 

It was the second year for the ice surface at Terry Ray Clark Park and it was utilized well by residents noted Person, "The Terry Ray Clark Park surface was a giant success, often the neighbouring residents were the first ones to clear the surface after a snowfall. Thank you to everyone who pitched in on this project."  

The Strathmore Lions Outdoor Rink may not have ice but the doors will stay open as users are encouraged to enjoy the space for ball hockey and other outdoor activities. 

Although the ice on Kinsmen Lake is still present the Parks team with the town is constantly keeping an eye on it to ensure residents are safe, "Our Parks team continues to regularly post the ice thickness at Kinsmen Park and Strathmore Lake. As we start into the spring thaw, it is critical to pay attention to the signs and warnings around these areas. Stay off the ice when warnings are posted – we want everyone enjoying our community’s parks to have a safe, fun time."