Back in December, Cook County Law Enforcement took a report of an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) sunk in Clara Lake in Lutsen. Although the initial call on December 11 was for assistance, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Conservation Officer Tom Wahlstrom said the ATV owner was able to retrieve the machine without DNR help.
Wahlstrom said by the time conservation officers were able to respond, the ATVer was out and safe. Wahlstrom said the man had been fishing.
Regarding ice conditions, CO Wahlstrom, reached by phone on January 4, said there has been “a lot of ice making since then.”
Wahlstrom said generally the ice in the Northland is safe, but people should always be aware of possible weak spots. Anglers should know the lake, but also be aware that things are different every year. He said it’s a good idea to talk to other anglers and area resorts about ice conditions.
“People need to pay attention and it is a good idea to carry ice picks,” said Wahlstrom.
And probably most important, Wahlstrom said, “Let someone know where you are going!”
According to Capt. Greg Salo, DNR regional enforcement supervisor in St. Paul, four people died after falling through thin ice last winter.
DNR clear ice thickness recommendations are:
. Four inches for walking.
. Five inches for a
snowmobile or ATV.
. Eight to 12 inches for a car.
. 12-15 inches for a
medium-sized truck.
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