Frequently Asked Questions

Why grooming instead of snow removal?

The impact of grooming on the path will certainly be less than that associated with a full-length snow removal operation.
The Lachine Canal is primarily a heritage waterway and its path is not designed for winter maintenance such as snow removal. In particular, the path is not equipped with a drainage system and this causes surface water and ice to accumulate, posing a risk to public safety.

This is in addition to the risk of premature deterioration of the path due to the removal of snow, which provides a natural protection against freezing, and the impact of the use of machinery and abrasives on the path and the surrounding terrain. We are confident that this proposal will appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and enhance the outdoor experience.

Will you use anti-skid to avoid ice formation?

This winter, Parks Canada will use EcoIceGrip as a de-icer/anti-skid. It consists of soft wood chips, of a certain size, soaked in a neutral pH brine. This product has the characteristic of sticking to the surface when applied rather than floating. Thus, even after several thaw cycles or a rainy episode, the chips will remain on the surface and re-freeze, thus maintaining a non-slip surface. They are safe for concrete, biodegradable and gentle on dogs' paws. Shavings do not block drains or sewers, can be composted, used as mulch or spread on the ground to decompose in late winter.

Otherwise, no abrasives should be used on the groomed trail. A rotary icebreaker, called an "ice crusher", will be used to crush ice patches that have formed on the trail surface with a serrated roller.

What is the impact of the temperature on trail maintenance?

Temperature has a large impact on snow conditions, grooming quality and our ability to groom. Warm wet snow can be very challenging and hard on equipment and, if followed by a cold spell, the resulting icy surface can be dangerous. In extreme cold, snow does not pack well and can pose a safety concern for groomers.

Temperatures

Temperatures

Temperature range	Impact
> 5°C	No damage. The equipment is very likely to become bogged down and damage the track, which will likely be strewn with large chunks of snow and poor quality ripples.
5 to 0 °C	Grooming is avoided when possible.
0 to -10 °C	Generally, best temperature range for good packing and grooming results.
-10 to -20 °C	Quality of snow packing and grooming declines; safety risk from temperature and windchill increases.
-20 to -25 °C	Poor grooming results. Compacting is possible, track-setting is not. For safety, staff time spent in these temperatures is limited.
< - 25°C	No grooming to take place: grooming results are too poor, machinery malfunctions, and safety concerns from cold temperatures.

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Questions and comments

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