Efforts are currently underway to get Canada’s renowned Rideau Canal ready for winter skating. However, with a season of warm and wet weather predicted, officials are keeping their hopes high for a successful reopening. Located in Ottawa, the nation’s capital, the canal had its briefest skating season last year, lasting only 10 days, due to mild winter conditions. Although this winter isn’t expected to be as warm, above-average temperatures are still anticipated across much of the country, particularly in northeastern Canada.

The National Capital Commission (NCC), responsible for managing the operations of the Rideau Canal, is hoping for a series of cold days to allow skaters to take to the ice next month. However, they’re also considering ways to adapt to the changing climate. According to NCC, the canal can only be opened for public skating once the ice is at least 30 centimetres (12 inches) thick and of good quality. Achieving this requires about 10 to 14 consecutive days of temperatures between -10°C and -20°C.

The commission is also exploring new strategies to help create ice earlier in the season, including the use of lighter equipment on the ice and advanced techniques. For instance, lighter equipment could allow contractors to work on ice that is thinner than the 30-cm benchmark.

Environment Canada predicts more snowfall this winter due to the shift towards the La Nina weather pattern. While an abundance of snow at the start of winter can aid in the ice-thickening process for the Rideau Canal, it needs to be cleared out eventually to prevent it from acting as an insulating layer and damaging the ice.

In light of changing weather conditions, other municipalities are considering artificial rinks. Ottawa’s ByWard Market, for example, has opened its first winter market featuring a synthetic skating rink. This eco-friendly rink offers a consistent skating experience regardless of temperature, making it an attractive feature for the market.

As winter approaches, the success of the Rideau Canal’s skating season depends heavily on the weather in Ottawa in the coming weeks. Nonetheless, if the cold weather arrives, officials are optimistic of a successful season.