News Release Archive

Unsafe Ice Conditions Identified at Lake Audubon

Media Contact: Patience Hurley, (701) 221-1204, phurley@usbr.gov

For Release: December 08, 2015

BISMARCK, ND -- Ice conditions at Lake Audubon are unstable and unsafe due to fluctuating water levels and warmer temperatures. Ice thickness varies from feet to only inches within very short distances. Lake Audubon should never be considered safe for vehicle traffic no matter how cold the temperatures may become.

"Reclamation and the Corp of Engineers are evaluating the changing water levels of the Lake and are working on a solution to stabilize the lake elevation," said Darrin Goetzfried, Deputy Manager for Facilities and Engineering. "Reclamation is concerned for all individuals' safety and urges that extreme caution be applied whenever venturing onto the ice."

Here are some safety tips every person venturing out onto frozen lakes should observe:

  • Leave information about your plans with someone -- where you intend to fish and when you expect to return.
  • Wear a personal floatation device and don't fish alone.
  • Ice varies in thickness and condition. Always carry an ice spud or chisel to check ice as you proceed.
  • Be extremely cautious crossing ice near points of land. Current causes ice to be thinner over these areas.
  • Avoid going onto the ice if it has melted away from the shore. This indicates melting is underway, and ice can shift position as wind direction changes.
  • Waves from open water can quickly break up large areas of ice. If you can see open water in the lake and the wind picks up, get off!
  • Carry a set of hand spikes to help you work your way out onto the surface of the ice if you go through. Holding one in each hand, you can alternately punch them into the ice and pull yourself up and out. You can make these at home, using large nails, or you can purchase them at stores that sell fishing supplies.
  • Carry a safety line that can be thrown to someone who has gone through the ice.
  • Leave your car or truck on shore.
  • Heated fishing shanties must have good ventilation to prevent deadly carbon monoxide poisoning. Open a window or the door part way to allow in fresh air.

For more information on what to consider before going onto the ice, visit the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website at: http://www.gf.nd.gov.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.

Relevant Link:

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