WHITE BEAR LAKE, Minn. — With plummeting temperatures luring more anglers onto the ice, the state of Minnesota is intensifying efforts to address the escalating problem of litter on frozen lakes during ice fishing season.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has observed a concerning rise in litter, ranging from household items like couches and appliances to smaller items such as pop cans, beer cans, and even human sewage left on the lakes. Lt. Col. Robert Gorecki, representing the DNR, expressed the need for urgent action to address this issue.
In response, a newly enacted state law is set to combat the problem head-on. The legislation mandates anglers to secure their trash in a container or bag attached to their ice house or vehicle. Lt. Col. Gorecki explained that the law explicitly makes it illegal for individuals to discard litter directly onto the ice.
Beyond addressing general litter, the law takes a strict stance against leaving sewage, whether from humans or animals, on the ice. To facilitate enforcement, the legislation empowers officers to take action, ranging from education initiatives to imposing a $100 fine.
Lt. Col. Gorecki reported positive reception from anglers regarding the new regulations. He stated, “Anglers have been very receptive to this. We’ve been getting a lot of good questions, and people have been very willing to take their part in making sure our lakes stay clean.”
As the ice fishing season gains momentum, enforcement officers will be present on lakes to ensure compliance with the new regulations. Lt. Col. Gorecki emphasized the collective responsibility of anglers in maintaining the cleanliness of the lakes, highlighting that the actions of a few can tarnish the reputation of the entire angling community. The hope is that these stringent measures will address the issue and preserve the pristine condition of Minnesota’s frozen lakes.