The unseasonably warm weather in the past few weeks have been a welcome reprieve for many folks in the north, but it has created a multitude of problems at the Manitouwadge Rec Centre skating rink.
The ice plant at the arena was turned on in early October, and the staff was ready to start getting things ready for the skating and hockey season.
However, the arena roof is not well insulated and the warm weather created a humid environment; the ensuing mist condensing on the domed ceiling. It then dripped down onto the ice, creating stalagmites, lumps, and other formations. Because the ceiling is made of unpainted wood, the water took on a brown tinge, which stained the ice. These lumps and bumps had to be removed daily by the staff and volunteers before they can create a smooth, even surface, ready for painting and eventually skating.
The situation is improving, however. The weather is cooling off, and the rain is turning to snow, which means the drips have stopped, and the arena staff is hoping to get the job finished soon.
Many folks use this arena in the winter, including the Manitouwadge Minor Hockey Association’s Copper Kings and the newly formed Manitouwadge Skating Club.
The Manitouwadge Minor Hockey Association’s Copper Kings traveled to Nipigon for their first games this past weekend.
The new Manitouwadge Skating Club was prepared to begin classes on October 5th, and are disappointed that they can’t get on the ice. They decided to launch their program anyway, holding off-ice fitness training and dance classes several times a week and a virtual dance technique class with Christine Soo dance from Thunder Bay.
The roof is slated for repairs in the spring, as it has sustained much wear and tear over the years. The curling rink, which is a different part of the rec centre, is not affected by the weather, and the ice is being prepared and should be ready for the 2022-23 regular season.
The Manitouwadge Community Services department will update the status of the ice when there are any changes or new information.