Hockey Rinks Turn to Plastic Ice as Planet Warms
The New York Times • • business
Key Points:
- Michael Townsend and his team faced increasing challenges maintaining an outdoor rink at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park in Ashland, Neb., due to warmer winters.
- The crew frequently worked overtime to flood the rink and operate a Zamboni overnight to keep the ice in good condition.
- When the rink, which is 26 years old, required replacement in 2024, the cost of new compressors and pipes was estimated at $2 million.
- This high expense is significant given the rink serves approximately 7,500 skaters each season.
