Republic Park with a lot less snow than usual this time of year

You're likely seeing a lot more of your yard right now than usual for this time of year, with the early snow melt we're experiencing.

It's the same for the Parks Department in Portage la Prairie. Manager Dave Green says the parks in the city appear to have come through the winter in good shape.

At the same time, he says they're being cautious because it's so early in the year, and a lot could still happen. He notes they've done some minor clean-up, but are in a wait-and-see mode for the next couple of weeks. Green points out if they moved forward and we received some significant snow, they'd have to contend with more problems.

Green adds once they begin the clean-up, it's a multi-faceted operation. They'll start by looking after the center medians and sidewalks along Saskatchewan Avenue, then move to individual parks. He says they'll clear branches and debris, apply fertilizer and dandelion control, plus ensure all play structures are safe for the coming season.