The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is reporting spotty ice conditions around the state due to the snow that fell on thin ice before it had a chance to thicken.

Even though there have been some good cold temperatures, the recent snow that blankets much of the state insulates the ice and slows the ice thickening process, said Tim Smalley, DNR water safety specialist.

“The weight of the snow pushes down on the ice, causing water to seep from cracks,” Smalley said. “This creates a slushy mess on the ice surface.”DNR conservation officers throughout the state report slush on many lakes with ice thicknesses ranging from 14 inches or more on some lakes down to an inch or two on others.While the DNR recommends four inches of new clear ice for ice activities on foot, slush adds weight and reduces the ice’s carrying capacity.

“Folks who are planning on heading out on the ice need to call ahead to a local bait shop or a resort on the lake, to find out the current conditions,” Smalley said.

The number to Prior Lake Bait and Tackle is (952) 447-6096.For more ice safety information, visit www.mndnr.gov [1].