Madison ice rinks, ski trails closed until further notice

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - With the unusually mild temperatures this December, the City of Madison announced that all rinks and ski trails are closed until further notice.

Area sledding hills, ski trails and ice skating ponds are generally unusable given the recent slush and slop due to melting.

At Elver Park, families had to opt for the playground to enjoy the day while staying dry.

“I was gonna go sledding at our school, but there was no snow,” said Reid Wernberg, who was with his family at the park. “I wanted to try skiing this winter, but hopefully we get snow later on.”

Before the city can declare ice rinks and frozen lagoons safe, they have to monitor a few things.

Officials say that ice depth is critically important. Staff will measure the ice depth at designated rinks and lagoons in multiple spots. Then they will determine what type of equipment to use to groom and maintain the ice.

Officials said there needs to be five to six inches of consistent ice depth to support the weight of ice grooming equipment. Equipment can range from hand-held to larger machines.

Additionally, snowfall on ice can actually help insulate it. Staff say that if snow is improperly removed from the ice, that it may melt. They encourage everyone to allow time for Parks staff and volunteers to properly remove snow before skating.

Madison Parks staff says that no ice is ever 100% safe. Before skating, check the status of each rink online or by calling the Parks office at (608) 266-4711

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