Feedback is pleased to discover another delightfully unconventional unit of measurement that is being used to convey amounts of snow on Ottawa’s Rideau Canal. We are always intrigued by unique and creative ways of measuring things and this recent discovery has left us both amused and impressed.
As the snow begins to fall and winter truly sets in, Ottawans eagerly await the opening of the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest skating rink. But have you ever wondered how much snow is needed to create this iconic winter wonderland? The answer might surprise you.
Traditionally, snowfall is measured in centimeters or inches, but in Ottawa, there is a more whimsical approach. For years, locals have been using the unit of “BeaverTails” to measure the amount of snow on the Rideau Canal. Yes, you read that right – BeaverTails, the iconic pastry that has become synonymous with winter in Canada.
A single BeaverTail pastry is about 16 inches long, which is equivalent to 40.64 centimeters. But why choose BeaverTails as a unit of measurement for snow? Well, for starters, BeaverTails are a beloved Canadian treat, and what better way to pay homage to this delicious pastry than by using it as a unit of measurement.
But there is more to this unconventional unit of measurement than just its sweet association. The Rideau Canal Skateway is a significant part of Ottawa’s culture and history, and BeaverTails have become a staple snack for those skating along its frozen surface. So it only makes sense that when measuring the amount of snow on the Canal, BeaverTails would come to mind.
As the snow builds up, locals will often say things like “there’s already one BeaverTail of snow on the canal” or “we need at least three more BeaverTails of snow to open the Skateway.” This unit of measurement has become a fun and lighthearted way for Ottawans to keep track of the snowfall and anticipate the opening of the Skateway.
In fact, the BeaverTail measurement has become so ingrained in Ottawa’s winter culture that even officials and news outlets have started to use it. The National Capital Commission, which manages the Rideau Canal Skateway, has embraced the unconventional unit of measurement and uses it in their official reports. And last year, CBC Ottawa even created a “BeaverTail-o-meter” to track the progress of the snow accumulation on the Canal.
But it’s not just Ottawans who have taken a liking to this unconventional unit of measurement. Tourists and visitors to the city are often amused and charmed by the use of BeaverTails to measure snow. Many have even adopted the practice and use it as a fun way to track the snowfall in their own cities.
The use of BeaverTails as a unit of measurement for snow on the Rideau Canal may seem silly to some, but to Ottawans, it is a source of pride and a way to celebrate their city’s unique winter culture. It’s just another example of how Canadians can find joy and humor in even the coldest and snowiest of seasons.
So next time you hear someone in Ottawa talking about BeaverTails of snow, you’ll know exactly what they mean. And as you skate along the frozen Rideau Canal, take a moment to appreciate the little things that make this city so special. Who knows, maybe you’ll even feel inspired to come up with your own unconventional unit of measurement. After all, as Ottawans have shown us, anything can be measured in BeaverTails.
