Area lakes not safe

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Area lakes not safe, even with sub-zero temperatures (December 10, 2007)

Weather conditions this year have made ice very unsafe on many area lakes. Large amounts of snow over a thin layer of ice, especially on large lakes, means that even with prolonged sub-zero temperatures ice is not safe for snowmobiles and ATVs, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

A check on Pokegama Lake (Itasca County) this past weekend showed four inches of snow, two inches of crusty ice, three inches of water and less than two inches of ice. Sam Johnson with DNR Trails and Waterways said that when you look across the lake, it looks safe, but the combination of crusty ice, water and snow will not support vehicles.

“I saw a snowmobile cross Pokegama at high speeds, but if the machine would have stalled, I do not think the ice would have supported it,” said Johnson. “Unfortunately, now there are tracks and others may believe the ice is safe.”

“We have received calls from local lakeshore owners who are very concerned about the ice conditions,” said Lt. Dave Olsen, DNR Enforcement. “They have reported steam and water coming through the ice.”

“Other areas are reporting unsafe ice, as well,” said Les Ollila, DNR NE Region Trails and Waterways manager. “The problems are wide-spread. Each lake is different. There are some smaller lakes that froze before the snowfall that may have sufficient ice, but the snow has make for poor ice conditions on most lakes. And, the swamps are not frozen either,” Ollila said.

The DNR warns winter outdoor enthusiasts to stay off any ice unless they are sure of conditions. The DNR recommends a minimum of four inches of new clear ice for foot travel on frozen water bodies. For ATVs and snowmobiles the DNR recommends five inches of new clear ice, and eight to 10 inches of new clear ice for cars and small trucks. Because the snow has reduced the quality of the ice this year, the DNR recommends added caution.

Ice safety information is available by visiting the DNR Web site at www.mndnr.gov.