Ice warnings for aerated lakes issued

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) warns ice anglers, snowmobilers, skiers and other outdoor enthusiasts to use caution when going onto any lake covered or partially covered with ice, especially those that feature aeration systems, such as Aldrich Lake in Douglas County.

“Open water areas created by aeration systems can shift or change shapes depending on weather conditions,” said Marilyn Danks, DNR aquatic biologist.

Aeration systems are generally operated from the time lakes freeze until ice break-up in the spring. They help prevent winterkill of fish, but they also create areas of open water and thin ice, which are significant hazards.

Two types of signs are used to post aerated lakes: thin ice and warning signs.

The signs warn people approaching the lake that an aeration system is in operation and to use extreme caution.

Some municipalities may have ordinances that prohibit entering a thin ice area and/or prohibit the night use of motorized vehicles on lakes with aeration systems in operation. These local regulations are often posted at accesses where they apply.

For more information, call a regional fisheries office or the DNR Information Center at (651) 296-6157 or 1-888-646-6367.

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