(These man-made snow mountains are a relatively new phenomenon. I once read that clearing snow from roads and city streets began in the 1920's in Montreal - about 100 years ago. At the time, automobiles were a relatively recent invention. Prior to that, motor vehicles were driven only in summer. When snow fell, they were put away. Horses and sleighs took over the roads. No need to clear the snow for them! And to think that this transition - from horse-drawn wagons and sleighs to cars and trucks happened during my parents' and grandparents' lifetimes!)
By the time spring arrives, residents wonder if these mounds of ice and snow will ever melt...They eventually do - usually in late June or early July.
In our nearby college, last year's snow mountain is gone - but a warning sign remains - reminding the curious and playful to keep off the mound. They could fall off - or, even worse, fall inside. Snow is unstable and could collapse under their feet!
