The Dammen Nordic Cross Country Ski Race scheduled for this weekend at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center has been canceled because of expected extreme cold temperatures.

The race was scheduled for Saturday, but temperatures around race time could hover around minus 1 with a minus 24 wind chill.

Nature center staff canceled the race due to concerns for volunteer and racer safety.

“We thank the community for their support of this event, which is a fundraiser for the Kevin Dammen Memorial Mentorship Program,” center staff said in an email.

Registration fees will not be refunded but can be applied to next year’s race.

The race is a fundraiser for the Kevin Dammen Mentorship Fund. Nature Play days and Summer Nature Adventure Programs benefit directly from this mentorship program.

For more information about the Kevin Dammen Mentorship Fund, visit www.hormelnaturecenter.org under Get Involved.