Winter Impact
No matter where you live, the winter months affect us all. Snow, rain, wind, frost; all this can impact the way we live. It can affect our home, our yards, and the way we get around. Unfortunately, it can also affect our neighborhoods and communities and where we go to gather for play and recreation. Our recreational areas are our lifeline to physical and mental release from our day-to-day tasks. Wear and tear from weather is a given in these areas but can be minimized if certain precautions are implemented. It is important we understand the impact that the winter season has on these areas and what we can do to help preserve them for spring when we will, once again, utilize them to their fullest.
Preparation
Here in Texas, we get an abundance of wind and rain as well as a couple of inches of snow in the colder months. This can severely affect how the local recreation areas function. Trails could get muddied or eroded from heavy rainfall, freezing temperatures could cause damage to local wildlife and equipment, and wind gusts can blow away or demolish light-weight materials. Prolonged exposure to harsh elements will always cause problems. This is why we need to be proactive in our preparation for inclement weather and take into consideration the environment, wildlife, and park equipment to ensure all is safe and weathers the storm for future springs to come.
Weather Proofing
Making sure your products are compatible to withstanding the weather and local environmental conditions is a must. Certain materials are better suited for certain climates so know your area and purchase products accordingly. Also knowing what your products are capable of helps you to know what and how to maintain them. Taking down any fabric shades before high winds or heavy snows will keep them from tearing or stretching and help them last longer. Securing playgrounds, tables, benches and trash receptacles and making sure any wood pieces are weather sealed will aid in longevity. Apply repair paint to any damaged steel products to keep them from rusting or continuing to chip. Keeping all equipment as clean of debris, dirt, or mildew, which holds moisture, can help the anti-aging process of your structures. Continual maintenance is key to keeping the environment and everything in it operating.
Spring Ready
When the leaves turn green and the flowers start to bloom, the last thing you want to do is see the remnants of winter’s touch on your recreational environment. Adopting the above methods can help you enjoy the spring sunshine and know your outdoor area is safe and ready for you to enjoy. Check out all the wonderful outdoor amenities your area has to offer and see the great, innovative ways the parks departments have used to combat the winter months to seamlessly transition them into beautiful springtime adventures!
