City staff are asking residents to avoid using sports fields and certain parks until they officially open in mid-May.
In a media statement, the city said staff have been monitoring fields and ball diamonds to make sure they are safe for public use. Winter conditions have made a significant impact on the conditions of these facilities, according to staff.
"We just had a long winter and rest and recovery is of vital importance to establish healthy turf," said city park supervisor Chris Bjorn in a media statement.
"Playing on a ball diamond or sport field too early or too late in the year can cause irreparable damage to root systems and weaken turf for the season. Playing on unsafe terrain can also lead to injury. It is essential to allow turf to establish proper root systems to ensure fields are healthy and safe through the playing season."
The road leading up to Connaught Hill Park will also remain closed until ice and snow has melted, and
park washrooms will also remain closed. Staff say both will re-open later in April or in early May.
Golf enthusiasts can look forward to the Spring opening of the Pine Valley Golf Course next week. The course is scheduled to be ready to play as of Monday, April 23, but city officials say the course could be open as early as Saturday if weather cooperates.
