'Crop circles' on canal ice no mystery, NCC says

If you've noticed strange circular shapes on the ice surface of the Rideau Canal lately, fear not: they don't portend some alien takeover, but they just might signal a different kind of invasion.

According to theNational Capital Commission (NCC), the symmetrical patterns that have reminded some curious onlookers ofcrop circles arereally part of the preparation for the coming skating season.

"This is a result of this past weekend's flooding operations," Bruce Devine, the NCC's senior manager of the skateway, reassured concerned citizens.

The strange patterns are formed whencrews drill holes in the ice, then pumpwaterfrom underneath to thicken the frozen surface.

The only difference in this year's preparation is that crews are working farther apart to abide by pandemic health protocols, thus avoiding close encounters of any kind.

That, and the recentlack of snow cover keptthe unusual spectacle visible.

Devine said there's lots of work still to be done, so expect to see the crews back in action before the canal is safe for skating.

Like every winter, the temperature will playa decisive role.

"It's not cold enough at night," Devine said. "We're going to wait a few more days before thinking of going back to flood the ice again."

The NCChas also toldresidents to stay off the ice.

When the skateway does finally open, Devine said visitors should expect some new rules in place to helpprevent the spread of COVID-19. For one, there will be no stashing of boots and other belongings while they're out on the ice.

"They should plan to bring a bag with them," he said. "You will not be able to leave any personal belongings behind."