In light of the record-setting snowfall and bitterly cold temperatures building up ice on campus sidewalks, UW-Madison’s Physical Plant is looking to hire students to help clear ice and snow on nearly 50 miles of sidewalks.

University officials said the campus needs extra hands to shovel ice sheeting left by alternating rain, snow and freezing temperatures to ensure safety for pedestrians.

Students interested would be required to do physical labor with the use of shovels, ice picks, snow blowers and other small machines.

Physical Plant director for UW-Madison, John Harrod is hoping that students will want to aid the Plant in keeping the campus safe.

“This winter has dealt us challenge after challenge,” Harrod said in a statement. “This is a great way for students to make some extra money and to help us keep the campus slip-free.” The Physical Plant’s priority has been clearing sidewalks, along with 90 parking lots and 12 miles of streets on campus.

Given the amount of resources available and extreme level of snowfall this season, university officials said completely clearing the sidewalks will be a difficult task.

Students interested in helping must register with the Physical Plant custodial division at the Service Building Annex, 1225 University Ave. Participants must have a valid ID, birth certificate or Social Security card, and be able to commit to a minimum of two-hour long shifts. —Amanda Howser