Ice thickness on area lakes remains inconsistent causing continued safety concerns

Reports of inconsistent ice thickness on area lakes continues to be a safety issue for anglers and anyone driving vehicles, OHVs or snowmobiles on the lakes. The fatality rate this season is already higher than the last two seasons combined. All fatalities have occurred while driving an ATV or snowmobile.

According to Doug Schultz, Department of Natural Resources Walker area fisheries supervisor, ice thickness on Leech Lake is very inconsistent, ranging from 6 to16 inches.

"Pine Point should have 12-plus inches by now instead of 6 inches," said Schultz. "Other area lakes with thin ice include Big Sand by Park Rapids with 5 inches of ice and Clearwater Lake by Shevlin with 5 inches."

These reports are all accurate as of December 25, and while ice conditions should improve over the course of the next week, the ice may not be as thick as people expect.

The DNR reminds folks that no ice is ever 100 percent safe. It is imperative that people not let their guard down when it comes to ice safety. Please check with local experts, sporting goods stores and resorts for latest ice condition reports before heading out on a lake.