Bourbon & Beer: Ice Plant
Behind the Dome and Cube’s ice is our rink's refrigeration system, the ice plant. The ice plant is a mechanical system that most people don’t see, but every program relies on. The problem? Ours is failing.
The current ice plant was installed in 1988. That’s almost 40 years ago. It’s been patched and maintained well past its expected lifespan, and we’re now at the point where the band aids aren’t enough. Without real investment, the system could fail and if that happens, our ability to run hockey, figure skating, and other programs here at the rink are at risk!
The ERRA Board recently activated a group of experts on our refrigerator system to get a deeper understanding of what we’re dealing with. And it was eye opening. The refrigerant HP80, which keeps our current system running, is becoming harder to find anywhere and it is urgently needed. Without it, the plant won’t function. The outdoor condensers are on their last legs. These condensers help cool the rink and are absolutely critical. Replacing them alone would cost about $100,000+.
Long term, we’re looking at replacing the full system with a modern, energy efficient plant using CO2 refrigerant and a buried aquifer heat exchange. That upgrade would cost approx. $2.5 million, but it would cut energy use significantly and future proof our rink for decades. This isn’t just a someday project. It’s happening now. The timeline can’t be years down the road anymore. Without a plan in motion and funding behind it, we risk the very thing that makes our rink what it is. This impacts everyone who uses the rink.
Here’s How You Can Help
Join us for our one and only annual fundraiser, an evening of bourbon, beer, good food, and great people.
📅 Thursday, July 10
🕠 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
📍 Eagle Waters Resort
🎟️ Tickets are $75.00 per person LINK
Each ticket includes commemorative glass. Enjoy tastings, heavy hors d'oeuvres, and the chance to bid on amazing items in our live and silent auctions. We’ll also have raffle baskets packed with awesome items. It's always a fun night, and this year, it’s more important than ever! 100% of the proceeds goes to the Ice Plant Fund.
NEW: Goal Crusher Sponsorship Opportunity!
If you’re a local business or supporter, we’d love for you to sponsor a week at the rink for $1,500.00! It’s a great way to show your support and be part of this critical effort.
What you get:
-Your business logo on our roadside sign for a full week during the season
-Recognition at the event and on our social media
-Five tickets to Bourbon & Beer ($375 value)
-A “Thank You” sign to hang in your shop, office, or front window
Let’s Keep Skating in Eagle River
The rink has been here for generations! Let’s make sure it’s here for generations to come. If you’ve ever cheered on your child or family member at the Dome, helped tie skates in the lobby, or caught a Falcon game under the lights, you’re part of this. And we hope you’ll be part of the solution, too. Join us on July 10. Bid big. Bring friends.
