In recent years, the Simonton Lake Area Homeowners’ Association (SLAHA)—established in 2006 with a mission to preserve safety, property values, and environmental quality—has recognized the need to update its governing by‑laws to better serve today’s lake community. This modernization effort reflects changing legal requirements, member expectations, and the digital age.

Why Revise By‑Laws?By‑laws are the backbone of SLAHA’s governance, outlining how the organization operates—board elections, member voting rights, committee structures, meetings, and amendments. With nearly two decades of service, the current by‑laws require revision to address several key factors:

• Legal updates: Indiana state law now recognizes homeowner rights around solar installations and requires HOAs to update regulations accordingly.
• Technology integration: With digital communications (email alerts, online newsletters, virtual meetings), the by‑laws need provisions for electronic voting, remote participation, and data protection.
• Clarified procedures: Modern expectations around transparency, emergency decision-making, and quorum rules have grown more critical.

Lawful Amendment ProcessUnder Indiana law, amendments must be carried out via an established process:

1. Proposal development – Drafted during open committee meetings.
2. Member notification – Following notice requirements and distribution of materials before a vote.
3. Formal voting – Typically requires a majority or supermajority of members cast at a meeting or via absentee ballots.
4. Record-keeping – Revised by‑laws must be filed with association records and made publicly available through the website or upon request.

This ensures fairness, accountability, and member engagement throughout the process.

Key Updates Under Consideration

• Electronic Voting & Meetings: Incorporating video/telephonic attendance and secure online voting capabilities.
• Committee Structure Clarification: Clearly defined roles for existing committees, such as Environment, Safety, Communications, and Membership—ensuring smoother operations.
• Emergency Governance Procedures: Allowing the board to act swiftly (e.g., during weather emergencies or sudden annexation proposals) while retaining transparency and accountability.
• Director Nomination Transparency: Providing clear guidelines for candidate qualifications, notice, and fair elections—important given the high-profile retirement of past leaders like Doug Reese.

Community Engagement & Next Steps
SLAHA has made by‑law revision a community-wide endeavor:

• Public committee meetings: Open invitations ensure residents can review draft language, ask questions, and provide input.
• Newsletter coverage: Updates in Simonton Says and “Lake Alerts” are keeping residents informed and empowering them to participate.
• Open forums: Special sessions planned for proposed changes, ensuring clarity before adoption.

Benefits of Modernization
Updating the by‑laws brings several advantages:

• Stronger governance that aligns with modern expectations and operational needs.
• Greater member trust and participation, due to increased transparency.
• Legal compliance, reducing the risk of disputes or state interventions.
• Better preparedness for emergencies or rapid response to issues like annexation, environmental crises, or by‑law enforcement.

Modernizing SLAHA’s by‑laws is more than administrative housekeeping—it’s a proactive step toward ensuring that Simonton Lake’s governance reflects today’s needs and tomorrow’s challenges. By embracing legal updates, incorporating digital tools, clarifying procedures, and inviting community input, the association is reinforcing its mission: preserving a safe, sustainable, and engaged lake community for all residents.

Interested in getting involved?
Watch for by‑law revision meetings in Simonton Says, join the Communication Committee, or email [email protected] to help shape the future of our lake community.

Osolo Township, part of Elkhart County, serves Simonton Lake and its surrounding neighborhoods—including the lake community itself—through services such as road maintenance, fire/EMS, relief assistance, and cemetery upkeep. In recent months, Township leaders and local residents have engaged in important discussions around the 2025 budget, highlighting the increasing need for sustainable funding and deeper community involvement in budget decisions.

Fire & EMS Funding Challenges
Osolo Township allocates a significant portion of its annual budget to Fire and EMS services—around $1.8 million in the prior year, while receiving approximately $1.4 million from state sources  This shortfall of about $400,000 was temporarily bridged by reserves, but Township Board members have expressed concerns over the long-term viability:

“Looking beyond 2025 … state dollars are going to get lower and lower and we’re not going to have the funds that we need to do everything the way we have done it in the past. … we may have to downsize some facilities,” said member Carol McDowell.

Resident Engagement and Transparency
During a Township meeting last year, rumors circulated about cuts to Advanced Life Support (ALS), prompting packed turnouts to hear from officials. Township leaders like Vern Miller emphasized the value of community input:
“People should… come and hear the facts,”
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Local Simonton Lake residents, including the Simonton Lake Area Homeowners Association (SLAHA), have mobilized to ensure transparency around budgeting decisions that directly impact their community. Residents are actively encouraged to attend public hearings, which are scheduled annually before final adoption. For Osolo Township, the 2025 public hearing was held Sep 23, 2024, followed by formal adoption on Oct 28, 2024 

Coordination with Conservancy District
The Simonton Lake Conservancy District—a separate taxing body responsible for lake-specific infrastructure—also operates on a regulated budget cycle. Close coordination between the Township and the Conservancy District is essential, especially regarding shared concerns like stormwater drainage, shoreline maintenance, and funding transparency.

Advocating for Solutions
Key priorities in current township discussions include:

• Sustainable funding strategies: With revenue from the state relatively flat and reserve funds depleting, Township officials are exploring revenue adjustments—potentially through property levies or strategic cuts—and vetting budget lines for efficiency.
• Improved communication: Township meetings now include clearer communication channels—such as publicized hearing alerts, homeowner notifications via SLAHA, transparency tools like Township Board minutes, and press coverage.
• Community representation: Residents are encouraged to attend meetings (typically monthly) and voice their priorities—such as ensuring uninterrupted emergency service coverage for Simonton Lake.

The Path Ahead
Both Township and Conservancy leaders agree that ongoing advocacy from Simonton Lake’s community is crucial—particularly as township funds continue to be strained and state funding remains unpredictable. Active engagement, budget literacy, and maintaining open dialogue will ultimately determine whether vital services like fire/EMS and shoreline management can be sustained without sacrificing quality or safety.

How Residents Can Help

• Attend Township budget hearings—usually held in September and October of each year.
• Stay current via the Simonton Lake HOA bulletins, local news (e.g., WSBT), and official Township documentation .
• Share community priorities early, especially related to emergency services, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship.
• Encourage neighbors to participate—collective advocacy is more likely to influence policy decisions.

By staying informed, vocal, and involved, the residents of Simonton Lake and Osolo Township can work together to secure essential services while maintaining fiscal responsibility—and ensure the well-being of their community now and into the future.

Simonton Lake, an unincorporated community in Elkhart County, Indiana, has recently found itself at the center of discussions regarding the City of Elkhart's annexation initiatives. While the lake itself remains outside city limits, recent annexation proposals in adjacent areas have raised concerns among residents about potential future implications.

Recent Annexation Activities
In 2024, the City of Elkhart proposed annexing land at the northwest corner of County Road 4 and County Road 17, known as "Elkhart East Area A." This area, owned by Almac Inc., is near the industrialized zone and close to the Elkhart Bog-Overholt CEAS nature preserve. The annexation was approved by the City Council on June 17, 2024, despite initial tabling due to publication modifications.

Additionally, in November 2024, the Plan Commission recommended approval of annexing land generally at the intersection of County Road 17 and County Road 6, encompassing parts of Osolo and Washington Townships. This area includes both developed and undeveloped parcels within Elkhart East Phase I.

Community Concerns
The proximity of these annexed areas to Simonton Lake has led to apprehension among residents. Key concerns include:

• Tax Implications: Annexation could lead to increased property taxes for residents if the lake area is incorporated into the city.
• Public Services: Changes in jurisdiction may affect services such as emergency response, road maintenance, and public utilities.
• Environmental Impact: Development near the lake and adjacent nature preserves raises concerns about potential ecological disturbances.

At the June 17, 2024, City Council meeting, both the Simonton Lake Area Homeowners’ Association (SLAHA) President Doug Reese and Fire Chief Smith voiced these concerns, emphasizing the need for transparency and community involvement in such decisions.


Legal Framework and Process
Indiana law stipulates that for an area to be annexed, it must be contiguous to existing city boundaries. The annexation process involves several steps:

1. Petition Submission: Property owners or the city submit a petition for annexation.
2. Plan Commission Review: The commission evaluates the proposal and makes a recommendation.
3. City Council Approval: The council votes on the annexation ordinance.
4. Waiting Period: If approved, there's a 30-day (for voluntary annexations) or 90-day (for other cases) waiting period before the annexation becomes effective, provided no remonstrance is filed.

Historical Context
Historically, Elkhart has been cautious about annexing areas like Simonton Lake. In the past, city leaders opted not to pursue annexation of certain suburbs, including Simonton Lake, due to various considerations.

Looking Ahead
While there are no current proposals to annex Simonton Lake itself, the recent annexations in nearby areas suggest a trend of city expansion. Residents and local organizations are encouraged to stay informed and engaged in discussions about future developments to ensure that community interests are represented.

For more information or to get involved, residents can contact the Simonton Lake Area Homeowners’ Association or attend upcoming city council meetings to voice their opinions and stay updated on potential annexation plans.

Simonton Lake, Elkhart County's largest natural lake, is renowned for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. However, the increasing population of mute swans (Cygnus olor) has raised ecological and safety concerns among residents and environmentalists alike.

Understanding the Mute Swan Challenge
Originally native to Europe and Asia, mute swans were introduced to North America in the late 19th century. Over time, they have established significant populations across the Great Lakes region, including Indiana. Their presence on Simonton Lake has led to several issues:

• Aggressive Behavior: Mute swans are known for their territorial nature, especially during nesting season. They can pose threats to humans, pets, and native wildlife. 
• Ecological Impact: An adult mute swan consumes up to 8 pounds of aquatic vegetation daily, often uprooting more than they eat. This behavior degrades aquatic habitats, affecting fish and other wildlife. 
• Water Quality Degradation: Their droppings contribute to nutrient pollution, leading to algal blooms that deplete oxygen levels and harm aquatic life. 

Management and Control Measures
Addressing the mute swan issue requires a multifaceted approach:

1. Habitat Modification: Planting dense vegetation along shorelines can deter swans from nesting and feeding in certain areas. 
2. Egg Addling: This humane method involves treating eggs to prevent hatching, effectively controlling population growth. Proper training and permits are essential. 
3. Public Education: Informing residents about the consequences of feeding waterfowl and the importance of not disturbing nests can aid in management efforts.
4. Permitted Removal: In public areas like Simonton Lake, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issues free permits to lake associations for the legal removal of mute swans and destruction of their nests.

Legal Considerations
While mute swans are not federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Reform Act, Indiana law requires permits for their removal from public waters. On private property, landowners may take action without a permit, provided they adhere to local ordinances. 

Community Involvement
The Simonton Lake Area Homeowners Association and the Simonton Lake Conservancy District play pivotal roles in managing the mute swan population. Their efforts, combined with resident participation, are crucial for the lake's ecological balance.

The overpopulation of mute swans on Simonton Lake presents challenges that require coordinated management strategies. Through habitat modification, controlled population measures, public education, and adherence to legal guidelines, the community can work together to preserve the lake's natural beauty and ecological integrity.

For more information or to get involved in local conservation efforts, please contact the Simonton Lake Area Homeowners Association or the Simonton Lake Conservancy District.

During the winter months, Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, transforms into a frozen playground for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and peaceful outdoor recreation. However, it can also become a dangerous place for pets and wildlife that venture too far onto the ice. Every year, reports surface of dogs, deer, or other animals stranded or falling through thin ice--and well-meaning people putting themselves at risk trying to help. If you see an animal in distress on the ice, it’s important to act quickly, but safely.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
If you spot an animal or pet struggling on the ice, your first instinct may be to run out and help. Do not do this. Ice conditions can be unpredictable, and venturing out without proper equipment can quickly lead to a double emergency--endangering both the animal and yourself.
Instead, observe from a safe distance and determine:

• Is the animal moving or stuck?
• Has it fallen through the ice or is it unable to return to shore?
• How far from the shoreline is the animal?

Understanding the situation will help you communicate clearly when you report the emergency.

 Contact Authorities Immediately

Call 911 or the Elkhart County Dispatch Center to report the incident. You can also contact:

•   The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at 812-837-9536
• The local animal control officer or Elkhart County Humane Society
• The Simonton Lake Fire Department if the situation is urgent and life-threatening 

Provide exact details: location on the lake, what type of animal it is, how far it is from the shore, and whether the ice looks stable.

These agencies have specialized ice rescue equipment and training to respond safely and efficiently.

Do Not Attempt a Rescue Alone
While it’s natural to want to help, walking onto ice to rescue an animal can be fatal. Even if the ice appears solid, it may be dangerously thin in certain areas--especially near springs, inlets, or under snow cover.

If the animal in distress is your own pet, call them calmly from the shore. Do not encourage them to run or panic. Tossing a rope or flotation device from a safe distance may help in some cases, but always wait for trained responders.

Prevent Future Incidents

• Keep pets on leashes near frozen lakes.
• Educate children about ice safety and what to do in emergencies.
• Post signs near high-traffic areas warning of thin ice and animal rescue dangers.

Your compassion could save a life--but only if you act wisely. On Simonton Lake, if you see a pet or wild animal in distress on the ice, remember: stay off the ice, call for help, and let the professionals do the rescuing. You’ll be protecting both the animal--and yourself.

Winter on Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, is a special time for outdoor enthusiasts. As the lake freezes over and ice fishing season kicks off, anglers set up their fishing shanties across the ice to enjoy a peaceful day--or weekend--on the water. But as serene as it may seem, ice fishing can pose hidden dangers, especially when visibility drops due to fading daylight or snowstorms. That’s why Indiana law requires reflectors to be mounted on all sides of portable and permanent ice fishing shanties--a regulation designed with safety in mind.

The Importance of Reflectors
Snowmobiles, ATVs, and other recreational vehicles are frequently used on Simonton Lake during the winter months. These vehicles often travel at moderate speeds and can cover large stretches of the frozen lake quickly. When snow is falling or visibility is low at dusk or dawn, dark-colored or low-profile ice shanties become difficult to spot--until it’s too late.

Installing reflectors on all four sides of a shanty ensures that it is clearly visible from any direction, giving snowmobilers time to slow down or steer clear. Reflectors act just like those found on bicycles or trailers--they catch the light from a snowmobile’s headlamp and shine brightly, alerting the driver to the presence of an obstacle on the ice.

Legal Requirements in Indiana
According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), any structure placed on the ice--including fishing shanties--must have reflectors on all sides, visible from at least 100 feet away. This rule applies to both temporary (portable) and permanent shelters, regardless of whether they’re occupied or not.
Failure to comply with this law can result in fines and removal of the structure by authorities. More importantly, ignoring this rule puts everyone on the ice at risk--anglers, snowmobilers, and pedestrians alike.

Tips for Proper Reflector Use

• Use high-quality reflectors designed for outdoor use. These can be found at most hardware or sporting goods stores.
• Mount reflectors at least 12 inches above the ice surface to ensure visibility, even in snowy conditions.
• Check regularly that reflectors are not covered by snow or ice buildup.
• For added visibility, consider using battery-powered LED lights or reflective tape in combination with traditional reflectors.

Community Safety First
Simonton Lake is a tight-knit community where neighbors look out for one another. Ensuring your ice shanty is properly marked with reflectors is a small step that makes a big difference in preventing accidents and keeping winter recreation safe for everyone.

Whether you're a seasoned ice angler or new to the sport, respecting these safety guidelines is part of being a responsible member of the Simonton Lake community. Before you drill your first hole, make sure your shelter is as visible as it is cozy--and help protect lives on the ice.

Ice fishing is a time-honored winter tradition on Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana. As temperatures drop and the lake freezes over, locals and visitors alike bundle up, set up ice shanties, and drill their way through the ice for a relaxing day of fishing. However, for all the fun and recreation that comes with ice fishing, it's important to remember that Indiana has specific laws designed to keep anglers--and others on the ice--safe.

One such regulation that often surprises new ice anglers is Indiana’s law that limits the diameter of ice fishing holes to no more than 12 inches. This seemingly small rule plays a big role in maintaining safety on frozen lakes like Simonton.

Why the 12-Inch Limit Exists
The 12-inch hole diameter limit is enforced by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as a public safety measure. Larger holes in the ice can become serious hazards for snowmobilers, ice skaters, and even other ice anglers walking on the frozen surface. A person or pet stepping into a large, unexpected hole could easily suffer injury--or worse.

By limiting the size of the hole, the law minimizes the risk of accidents while still allowing enough room for effective ice fishing. For most species found in Simonton Lake--like bluegill, perch, and crappie--a 6 to 8-inch hole is often more than sufficient. Even for larger species such as northern pike or bass, a 10- to 12-inch hole is usually adequate to safely pull in your catch.

Consequences of Non-Compliance
Violating Indiana’s ice fishing regulations can lead to fines, and in some cases, confiscation of equipment. Conservation officers regularly patrol popular fishing spots like Simonton Lake during peak ice fishing months to ensure compliance with state laws. Being caught with an illegally large hole could not only ruin your day of fishing but also cost you money.

Additionally, exceeding the legal hole size could expose you to civil liability if someone were to get injured as a result of your oversized opening in the ice.

Best Practices for Drilling Safe and Legal Holes

• Measure your auger: Most manual and powered augers are designed for 6-, 8-, or 10-inch holes. Make sure the one you're using complies with Indiana’s law.
• Avoid overlapping holes: Drilling two holes too close together may create a larger, irregularly shaped hole that violates the law and poses a greater risk of someone falling in.
• Mark your fishing area: Use bright flags or cones if you leave your hole unattended, especially if it’s in a high-traffic area on the lake.
• Keep an eye on your surroundings: If fishing in a group, spread out to avoid weakening the ice or creating a cluster of holes that could collapse.

Simonton Lake is one of Elkhart’s finest winter recreation spots, but with great fun comes great responsibility. Following Indiana’s 12-inch hole size regulation is not only a matter of legal compliance--it’s a matter of community safety. So before you head out with your auger and bait, make sure you’re drilling smart, staying safe, and keeping Simonton Lake a secure place for everyone to enjoy.

When winter settles in and Simonton Lake freezes over, it can be tempting to treat the icy surface like a solid extension of land. However, not all ice is created equal—and understanding the safety requirements for ice thickness is crucial, especially when it comes to vehicles. If you’re planning to drive a medium-weight truck onto the ice, it’s essential to know that you need at least 10 inches of clear, solid ice to support that level of weight safely.

Simonton Lake, located in Elkhart, Indiana, is a popular destination for winter activities like ice fishing, snowmobiling, and even ice driving. But while the scenic lake may appear frozen solid during colder months, ice thickness can vary dramatically across different areas due to a range of environmental factors—such as water currents, springs, snow cover, and nearby aerators.

According to safety guidelines from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and the Minnesota DNR (which is often cited as a national authority on ice safety), clear, blue or black ice is the strongest. For example:

• 4 inches is generally safe for foot traffic and ice fishing.
• 5–7 inches can support snowmobiles or ATVs.
• 8–12 inches is required for small cars or light trucks.
• 10–12 inches or more is needed for medium-weight trucks.

Trying to drive a medium-weight truck—typically weighing between 6,000 and 10,000 pounds—on anything less than 10 inches of solid ice can be extremely dangerous. Ice does not fail gradually like many materials; it can give way suddenly and catastrophically, risking lives and vehicles.

It's also important to note that ice thickness is never uniform across a lake. Shaded areas, places near docks or boat ramps, and regions over flowing water or underwater springs may be much thinner—even if the majority of the lake appears safe. Snow cover can insulate and weaken ice, while currents under the surface may erode it from below.

Before driving a truck on Simonton Lake in winter, make sure to:

• Check current ice thickness in multiple locations using an auger or cordless drill.
• Consult local ice reports or ask neighbors and anglers who have recently been on the ice.
• Avoid areas near aerators, bridges, or inlets where ice is typically thinner and less stable.
• Never assume last week’s conditions still apply—ice can weaken quickly due to shifting weather patterns.

Safety on frozen lakes like Simonton Lake begins with preparation and respect for nature’s unpredictability. When in doubt, don’t drive out. No truck is worth the risk of falling through.  By following proper guidelines and waiting until ice reaches a minimum of 10 inches, you can safely enjoy winter activities while minimizing danger to yourself and others.

Winter on Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, brings a variety of seasonal activities—from ice fishing and snowmobiling to scenic drives around the frozen shoreline. However, one of the most serious safety concerns during this time is the assumption that all ice is strong enough to support heavy loads like vehicles. The reality is that ice must be at least 8 inches thick to safely support the weight of a car or light truck—and even then, conditions must be ideal.

Understanding Ice Thickness and Safety
Ice strength depends on more than just how cold the air feels. Several factors come into play, such as recent weather patterns, snow cover, currents, water depth, and whether the lake has seen any human activity (like ice drilling or plowing). Black (clear) ice is much stronger than white or opaque ice, which forms during periods of melting and refreezing. Even if one area of Simonton Lake measures 8 inches thick, another section could be far thinner due to variable conditions.  That’s why the guideline of 8 inches of solid, clear ice is considered the minimum for supporting the weight of a small vehicle. Trying to drive on anything less is extremely risky and can result in not just vehicle damage, but potentially fatal accidents.

Risks of Premature Ice Driving
Falling through thin ice with a car or truck isn’t just dangerous—it can be deadly. Vehicle weight significantly increases the stress on the ice, and even a small misjudgment can cause the surface to crack or collapse. Recovery of a sunken vehicle is expensive, and environmental damage from fuel and oil leaks is another serious concern for the health of Simonton Lake.

Tips for Staying Safe

• Check the thickness: Always drill test holes and measure the ice thickness with an auger before venturing onto the lake with a vehicle.
• Spread the weight: If you must drive on the ice, go slowly and keep windows open. Don’t stop your car or make sharp turns.
• Know your vehicle’s weight: A small sedan may weigh 3,000–4,000 lbs, while a light pickup truck can easily exceed 5,000 lbs. The heavier the load, the thicker the ice must be.
• Avoid pressure ridges, cracks, or dark spots: These are weak points in the ice and can give way even if the surrounding ice appears solid.
• Never drive at night or in low visibility conditions: If you can’t see hazards, you can’t avoid them.

Simonton Lake is a beautiful winter destination, but ice safety is non-negotiable. 8 inches of clear, solid ice is the minimum requirement for driving a car or light truck onto the frozen lake. When in doubt, stay off the ice with your vehicle and use safer, more appropriate methods to enjoy the winter landscape. Always respect the power of nature—especially when it’s frozen.

Winter transforms Simonton Lake into a frozen playground, and for many residents and visitors in Elkhart, Indiana, snowmobiling across the ice is one of the most thrilling seasonal activities. However, with great adventure comes great responsibility—and one of the most important safety rules is to ensure the ice is at least 5 inches thick before taking your snowmobile out on the lake.

Ice Thickness and Safety Standards
According to guidelines from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and other outdoor safety experts, 5 inches of clear, solid ice is the minimum recommended thickness to safely support the weight of a snowmobile and its rider. Ice that is thinner than this threshold significantly increases the risk of cracking or breaking under the machine's weight, potentially resulting in a dangerous or even life-threatening situation.
Keep in mind that not all ice forms uniformly. While one area of Simonton Lake may appear solid and safe, another section—particularly near docks, springs, aerators, or flowing water—may be far thinner and less stable.

Understanding Ice Types
Clear, blue or black ice is the strongest and forms when temperatures drop consistently below freezing. On the other hand, white or opaque ice—often the result of snow refreezing—contains air bubbles and is generally much weaker. For snowmobiling, only clear ice at 5 inches or thicker should be considered safe.
Never assume that cloudy, white, or slushy ice can hold a snowmobile, even if it appears thick. It’s also important to avoid pressure ridges or areas where the ice has been recently disturbed, as these zones are prone to weakness.

How to Measure Ice Thickness
Before hitting the throttle, it’s essential to drill test holes and check the ice thickness using a tape measure or ice chisel. Take measurements in multiple spots, especially in the areas you plan to ride. Don’t just rely on reports from others—conditions can change rapidly, and it’s always best to verify for yourself.
For added safety, wear a life jacket or floatation suit, carry ice picks, and never snowmobile alone. Let someone know your plans and expected return time.

Simonton Lake: A Winter Gem Worth Protecting
Simonton Lake is a cherished natural resource in Elkhart County, and the community takes great pride in keeping it safe and enjoyable year-round. Snowmobiling is a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy the lake during the colder months, but safety should always come first.

Following ice thickness guidelines and understanding the risks of thin or uneven ice helps ensure not only your own safety but also the wellbeing of others who share the lake with you. Stay informed, be prepared, and ride responsibly.
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Remember: 5 inches is the minimum—more is always better. When in doubt, stay off the ice until it’s safe. Your adventure can wait, but your life is priceless.