Ice Skating Open At Livingston Pond For First Time In Years

LIVINGSTON, NJ — The winter weather comes with its problems, such as predictions of snow squalls. But for Livingston residents, the chilly forecast will also come with a bonus this week: ice skating at Littell’s Pond.

On Monday, township officials announced that the pond will be open for ice skating “until further notice.” Skating is allowed between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. only.

Littell’s Pond is located on Wahler Road, behind the tennis courts. Parking is available in the lot for the Haines Community Pool at 10 Wahler Road, adjacent to Livingston High School.

According to the township, sustained cold temperatures have led to Littell’s Pond freezing over and the ice is now thick enough for ice skating. Livingston’s Department of Public Works (DPW) employees measure the thickness of the ice on the pond. When the ice is thick enough, skating is allowed.

DPW employees have been busy clearing the ice and ensuring that it is thick enough to be safe for potential skaters. They will continue to do so with daily measurements, officials said.

Skating is only permitted when the signs posted on site indicate it is open for skating, officials reminded residents. In addition, the township posts on its website and social media outlets when the pond is open for skating.

Here are some important things to keep in mind if you plan to hit the ice, officials said:

NO FISHING, VEHICLES - Ice fishing or any other coring, drilling or cutting of the ice is strictly prohibited. No vehicles, snow blowers or equipment of any kind are permitted on the ice, with the exception of authorized township personnel.

NO SUPERVISION - Skaters are reminded that there will be no township supervision provided on the ice and that skating on Littell’s Pond is at your own risk

“We are pleased to be able to open Littell’s Pond for ice skating,” Mayor Ed Meinhardt said.

“It has been several years since the weather has been cold enough for a long enough period of time to allow the pond to freeze thick enough for skating,” Meinhardt added.

Township manager Barry Lewis encouraged local residents to seize the day – and their ice skates.

“Always skate with a buddy, and pay attention to any signs that are posted to ensure your safety and the safety of others,” Lewis said.

SAFETY TIPS

Livingston officials reminded residents that they should keep safety in mind, even when the pond is open. Some safety tips include:

• new ice is stronger than old ice
• white ice is only half as strong as new, clear ice
• ice does not freeze uniformly
• any ice formed near an area of flowing water will generally be more dangerous
• weather conditions or unknown factors can cause ice to be dangerous, even if it appears safe
• skate with at least one other person (the buddy system)
• stay off of Littell’s Pond when “No Skating” signs are posted
• avoid gathering in large groups on the ice
• stay away from cracks, seams, pressure ridges and slushy areas
• pay attention to the condition of the ice, since ice conditions may change throughout the day

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