DNR Issues Ice Warning

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is warning ice anglers, snowmobiler’s skiers and other outdoor enthusiasts to use caution when going on any lake covered with ice.

According to the DNR outdoor enthusiast should be especially careful with lakes that cover aeration systems. Aeration systems are normally operated from the time lakes freeze until it breaks up in the spring. The system prevents the winterkill of fish and creates areas of open water and thin ice, which can be significant hazards.

Outdoor enthusiast should look out for signs that say “Thin Ice” and “Warning” signs that are posted near aerated lakes. The person who applies for the permit should post the signs and they should be posted at all commonly used access points to the lake.

Some cities and towns may have special ordinances that prohibit entering the thin ice area or could prevent motorized vehicles on lakes at nighttime with aeration systems in operation. These local regulations are often posted at accesses where they apply.

The following is a list of area lakes that will likely have aeration systems in operation this winter.

• Aitkin County: Cedar (McGrath).
• Cass County: Eagle, George, Gull, Leech (Kabekona Bay), Loon, Meadow.
• Crow Wing County: Nisswa, Round.
• Wadena County: Stocking.