Even Quebec City no longer relying on cold to keep outdoor rinks open

Yvan Cournoyer, the former Montreal Canadiens winger and 10-time Stanley Cup champion, reminisces about his childhood spent clearing snow from outdoor rinks in Quebec City. Today, he acknowledges that the struggle for kids playing outdoor ice hockey is different, especially with the impact of climate change.

In response to the changing weather patterns, Quebec City has invested $45 million into its climate change reserve. Part of this funding is being used to refrigerate outdoor rinks to preserve the beloved winter sport. Mayor Bruno Marchand emphasizes the importance of adapting to the evolving climate, as warmer temperatures have shortened the outdoor skating season.

Lawrence Mysak, a professor emeritus of atmospheric and oceanic sciences at McGill University, highlights the challenges posed by climate change on outdoor ice skating. He explains that traditional methods of flooding rinks rely on temperatures below -5 C for at least three days, a condition that is becoming increasingly rare due to warming trends.

The Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation has played a crucial role in addressing these challenges by establishing refrigerated rinks across Quebec, including the newest addition in Quebec City. This initiative, known as Bleu Blanc Bouge, aims to provide accessible skating opportunities regardless of weather conditions.

Guy Cormier, CEO of Desjardins, commends the efforts to combat climate change and ensure that outdoor skating remains a cherished winter tradition. The collaboration between local authorities and organizations reflects a commitment to preserving the cultural significance of outdoor ice hockey in Quebec City and beyond.