As the winter in Clear Creek County feels unseasonably warm, the impact on Georgetown is noticeable. With the sun shining and the lake reflecting the li...
As the winter in Clear Creek County feels unseasonably warm, the impact on Georgetown is noticeable. With the sun shining and the lake reflecting the light, the lack of snow and thin ice poses a challenge for outdoor activities in Colorado’s mountain communities.
Arctikhana recently announced the cancellation of all remaining ice racing events due to the insufficient ice coverage at Georgetown Lake. Josh Tenge, co-founder of Arctikhana, expressed his surprise at the current conditions, mentioning that in his 13-14 years of experience, he had never seen the lake in such a state.
Tenge explained that the ice driving season typically spans January and February, allowing multiple groups to book days for driving on the lake. However, the current situation prevents any such activities. “We’re pretty much out of luck for the season,” Tenge lamented, highlighting the need for a significant freeze to salvage the season.
Moving forward, Arctikhana plans to refund or transfer participants to next year’s events, confident that the lake will freeze again. Meanwhile, preparations for the Colorado Pond Hockey Tournament are in full swing on the lagoon side of the lake. The tournament, scheduled from February 13-15, attracts thousands of players to the area.
David Janowiec, the tournament’s owner, emphasized the meticulous preparations required for the event, ensuring that the ice is safe for play. Despite the unusual warmth during December and January, February’s weather has been favorable for the tournament. Janowiec reassured that the current ice thickness of 12 to 14 inches in most spots is sufficient for safe gameplay.
Mike Huggins, chairman of the town of Georgetown Business Promotion Commission, noted that despite the warm weather, visitors continue to engage in activities like hiking and ice fishing. Huggins expressed confidence that the situation is not a significant concern for the town and its businesses, attributing the steady traffic to both local visitors and day trips from Denver.
Scott Goeringer, owner of Georgetown Valley Candy Company, shared insights into the shift in visitor demographics this season. He mentioned an increase in sales compared to the previous year, with a noticeable rise in foot traffic, particularly from vacationers exploring different locations due to the suboptimal mountain conditions.
Goeringer acknowledged the potential challenges posed by warmer temperatures but remained optimistic about the upcoming summer season. Concerns about water availability and forest fires were prevalent among the community, reflecting a broader sentiment toward the changing climate patterns.
Georgetown continues to adapt to the evolving weather conditions, showcasing resilience in the face of the warm winter. Despite the challenges posed by the lack of snow and thin ice, the community remains active and optimistic about the future.
Source of the article: www.denver7.com