Sylvan Hill tubing park. Image courtesy: WAOW TV.
WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — With very little snow and warmer than normal temperatures the city’s winter outdoor activities season got off to a late start, but facilities are up and running none the less says City and County Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Director Jamie Polley.
She updated the city’s Parks and Recreation Committee on Monday, saying just because the thermometer says below freezing doesn’t mean it’s snow-making weather.
“If the humidity in the air is too high, then all you shoot is water,” she said. “It’s not [the right conditions] to make it snow.”
Polley says crews worked for more than 50 days to make snow on the hill, sometimes round-the-clock if conditions allowed. The park didn’t open for sledders until December 31st, and even then it was just one run that was open.
As of last week, both runs are open. Social distancing protocols include one-way traffic flow in some areas and limits on gatherings. Polley says staff hasn’t had many issues with keeping people spaced out, adding that the tow rope allows for separation in its usual functions.
As for the city’s outdoor skating rinks, Polley says they are open and being maintained but don’t expect the best quality ice. Good ice usually requires a fair amount of snowpack underneath the surface, which has been difficult to maintain.
Additionally, there are no warming houses on any of the outdoor rinks to encourage social distancing.
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