Since 2022, the NCC and Carleton University have been working together to solve a problem: how to keep the Rideau Canal Skateway open and thriving as winters become more unpredictable.
The challenges of a changing climate
Weather patterns have become increasingly unpredictable. Snow, rain and cold are insufficient to keep the ice on the Rideau Canal solid.
In 2022, the Skateway didn’t open at all—a first in its history. That year, Ottawa received 150% more snow than usual. This made it difficult to manage the flooding and snow removal processes required to open the Skateway.
Then, in 2023, temperatures matched climate models for 2051–2081. Without prolonged periods of cold, it made it difficult for ice to form. Despite these challenges, we found ways to open the Skateway. Our efforts highlighted how important it is to carefully manage snow and temperatures to create good skating conditions.
Length of last 10 seasons
Understanding the challenges the Skateway faces
The Rideau Canal Skateway is unique in scale and challenges. Smaller sites around the world may face similar issues, but are often able to use smaller, lighter equipment.
The Skateway faces urban pressures: surface water runoff, salt intrusion and heat from underground pipes, etc. Sections that can be problematic includes the sections from Laurier Avenue to the National Arts Centre and from Concord Street to the University of Ottawa.
The variation in depth is another challenge. It influences the heat and energy balance from the mudline to the ice cover.
We also have a challenge with wider sections of the canal, such as at Concord Street and near Holmwood Avenue, as these are larger areas which support a lot of snow. This causes deflection of the ice, and may allow water to infiltrate upward through cracks. This can decrease the overall strength of the ice cover.
Surprising findings and smart solutions
Ongoing research has led to some surprising discoveries, prompting changes in our approach. For example:
- Better snow management: Compacting snow improves thermal conductivity.
- Better ice monitoring: Temperature sensors now track ice strength, helping ensure that it’s safe for skaters.
- Addressing problem areas: We are testing ways to manage warm water draining near Laurier Street, which has been a recurring problem area for the Canal.
We are also deploying advanced tools, like snow fans, and using advanced flooding techniques. New methods to increase the ice's bearing capacity that involve physical tests and evolving tools to meet safety standards are also being explored.
Looking ahead
We plan to continue collecting and interpreting data to refine our weather models. This includes real-time monitoring of ice thickness, temperature, ice-bearing capacity and overall conditions. These models will help us make better decisions and focus on low-risk, high-benefit changes first.
We are also testing tools like the snowbot, a lightweight machine that removes snow on thin ice and exploring ways to scale up innovations for larger-scale applications.
By staying adaptive and innovative, we remain committed to maintaining the Rideau Canal Skateway as a cherished winter destination for years to come, despite the challenges posed by climate change.