This week’s warm weather provides the perfect example of conditions that make operating the Sturgeon Bay outdoor ice rink an expensive proposition. According to Municipal Services Director Mike Barker, the rink lacks an insulating membrane. Without a rink liner, there is nothing that keeps water laid down at the rink from seeping into the ground on warm days when it melts. The rink uses a berm of snow to keep the water on the rink which can cause some problems with maintaining a level, consistent surface if the berm wilts under the sun. The amount of water necessary for the rink is eye popping.

Temperatures are expected to be above freezing until after New Year’s Day.