Warm Weather Ice Safety Reminder

  • Avoid Venturing Onto Ice: Even if it seems solid, warmer temperatures can create weak spots that are hard to see.
  • Protect Pets: Keep your furry friends on a leash near frozen lakes, rivers, and ponds to prevent accidents.
  • Know the Signs of Thin Ice: Cracks, slush, or water pooling on the surface are clear warnings to stay off.
  • Plan for Emergencies: Always carry a charged phone and let someone know your plans if you're near frozen water.
  • Never Test Ice Thickness Alone: It’s not worth the risk. Stick to safe, designated areas or avoid ice altogether.

Let’s enjoy the warm weather responsibly and keep ourselves, our loved ones, and our pets safe!

As approved by County Council at the October 25, 2022 Regular Meeting, the County will move forward with recreational use of stormwater ponds in residential subdivisions provided that volunteer group follow the guidelines outlined by the County.
 
A program similar to the existing Neighbourhood Ice Surface Program is in development so interested residents can apply to manage their local stormwater pond. Designated stormwater pond skating surfaces will be maintained by volunteers. The County will oversee the program and coordinate training for volunteers who apply. 

Residents are encouraged to subscribe to this page to receive notifications in their email inbox for updates about the program for volunteers and recreation on stormwater ponds this winter.

Residents interested in volunteering to maintain their local stormwater pond ice surface can contact Recreation and Culture for more information.

Stormwater Ponds Ice Surface Volunteer Program

This program enables residents to create their own recreational stormwater pond ice surface on County Municipal Reserve land.

Applications are accepted until November 30, 2024.   As part of the program, participants are required to complete ice safety training.  To register please email recreationandculture@countygp.ab.ca.

Applications are required for ice surfaces in the following locations:

  • Whispering Ridge
  • Westlake 
  • Clairmont
  • Carriage Lane
  • Maple Ridge 

An existing neighbourhood association or volunteer group with at least 4 dedicated residents must be named on the application. This group will be solely responsible for the construction, snow clearing, maintenance, and ice depth testing of the ice surface. The County will provide safety best practices but will not be involved in the operation of the ice surface.

These ice surfaces are intended to be recreational and accessible to all residents and the public.

The Volunteer Ice Surface Program no longer accepting applications for the 2024/2025 season. A full list of 2024/2025 outdoor Skating Surfaces can be found here. 

Stormwater Pond Ice Surface Status
Community Access Status
Carriage Lane Lexington Street Closed 
Maple Ridge 77 Street Open
Westlake 104 Street or 106 Street Closed 
Whispering Ridge 106 Street Open

Read the official Recreational Use of Stormwater Ponds Policy. 

Learn more about the Neighbourhood Ice Surfaces program.