Ice Conditions Are Unpredictable and Unreliable

With the recently fluctuating temperatures the thickness of the ice forming on local rivers and storm water management ponds is unpredictable and will not reliably support weight. Water current is also a factor that does not consistently support safe ice thickness in these water bodies and citizens should be careful.

There are over 350 public and private storm water management ponds scattered throughout Rochester. They vary in size, depth, and flow. Because of their unique purpose, location, and construction, they are not intended to be used for recreational purposes.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources advises people to stay off any water body that has ice less than 2 inches thick. It takes 4 inches of new clear ice to support foot travel. These thicknesses are mere guidelines for new, clear, solid ice.

Running water and ice formed under freeze/thaw cycles can be unsafe even when it reaches the recommended thicknesses.

Before crossing ice, test it to learn if it meets these minimim ice thicknesses. You can test the thicknesses of the ice, progressing from shallow near-shore areas outward, using an ice chisel, ice auger, or even a cordless drill with a long bit. The DNR recommends that you wear a life vest under your winter gear, except while traveling across ice in an enclosed vehicle.

Weather permitting, the Rochester Park and Recreation Department maintains outdoor skating rinks each winter, usually beginning in late December. The location of the rinks can be found here.

For more detailed information visit the DNR website click here.

For more information on the City Storm Water Management Program visit here.

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