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the thickness of ice for tennis courts before skating is permitted varied from 1 to
4 inches (average 2 inches); for playgrounds, 1 to 3 inches (average 15). It was

stated that ice should be maintained by spraying to remove cracks and bumpse

Removing Water from Areas

 

The executives reported drainage from outlets, dams and valves, and natural
drainage and evaporatione. ©

Difficulties

 

Flooding. .In the lack of cold weather (when the ground is not solidly
frozen) the water may seep through the grounds This would indicate precaution in
determining proper ground and temperature conditions before floodinge

Sprayinge The difficulties with spraying seem to be mainly in regard to
temperature--as one superintendent said, "One warm day can undo three nichts' worke"
All agreed that something must be done to prevent skaters from using the ice while
it is soft or before it is sufficiently thicke Rough surfaces result from this
practice. Attendants are necessary or the area must be fencede

Resultant Damage to Areas

 

The executives were unanimously agreed that flooding playfields does no
damage to the ground, whether turf or soile

 

In most cases there was no herm done to tenis courts. Exceptions: Water
sometimes seeps under concrete courts, causing cracks in the concrete. The problem
is to close the expansion jointse One official reported that, in addition to delayed
opening of clay courts for regular use in the spring, they required more work after
they had been converted into ice skating rinks.

Advice from the Executives

 

If possible, the rink should be in a sheltered platee If it can be
sheltered from the sun, the ice stays in better condition. When feasible, permanent
curbing should be constructede One executive suggested that there will be 75% more
skating at night than during the day if lights are installed. On the other hand, do
not allow night skating unless the area is well lightede

This is a pertinent question, for even those who reported unsuccessful
attempts in creating ice skating rinks want to continue experimentinge Because of
widespread interest, the Association hopes to follow up this preliminary questionnaire
with more complete information. . Executives are urgently requested to submit to the
Association their experiences in the preparation, construction, and maintenance of
ice skating areas in order that more detailed information may be made available.

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