Deteriorating Ice Conditions Raise Concerns on Minnesota Lakes

DNR warns of unsafe ice as warm weather melts lake access points

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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After a three-day stretch of unseasonably warm weather, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is warning the public about deteriorating ice conditions on many lakes across the state. Conservation officers have reported seeing melting around ice shelters and concerns about lake access points becoming unsafe. The DNR is urging anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to use caution when venturing out on the ice and to check thickness before going out.

Why it matters

Unsafe ice conditions can pose a serious risk to public safety, with the potential for people falling through the ice and requiring rescue. This is an important warning from the DNR to help prevent accidents and injuries during the winter recreation season.

The details

According to the DNR's weekly reports, conservation officers in several regions of Minnesota, including Paynesville, Madison, Willmar, Litchfield, Benson, and Montevideo, have noted concerns about deteriorating ice conditions. They have observed melting around ice shelters and access points becoming problematic. The DNR's ice safety coordinator, Kim Emery, stated that the ice is "just kind of questionable at this point" and recommended that people bring an ice chisel to check thickness, as the ice may appear clear but actually be degraded.

  • Over the past three days, the region has experienced unseasonably warm weather.
  • The DNR's latest weekly reports on ice conditions were updated on Tuesday morning.

The players

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting Minnesota's natural resources, including monitoring ice conditions on lakes.

Kim Emery

The ice safety coordinator with the DNR's Enforcement Division.

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What they’re saying

“It's exactly what you would assume. There's some areas of lakes with open water, shorelines have become soft, and access points are becoming a problem.”

— Kim Emery, Ice Safety Coordinator, DNR Enforcement Division (West Central Tribune)

“If you're afraid that things are getting dicey, turn around and walk in the path that you came out on.”

— Kim Emery, Ice Safety Coordinator, DNR Enforcement Division (West Central Tribune)

What’s next

The DNR will continue to monitor ice conditions across Minnesota and provide updates to the public. Conservation officers will also remain vigilant in patrolling lakes and warning people about unsafe ice.

The takeaway

This serves as an important reminder that ice conditions can deteriorate quickly, even during the winter months, and that caution is always advised when venturing out onto frozen lakes. The DNR's guidance on checking ice thickness and being prepared for emergencies can help prevent accidents and save lives.