Promoting the Environmental Quality and Wise Use of Hutchins Lake and Its Watershed

MDNR on Ice Safety

Before going out on the ice this year, please take a moment to read the ice safety guidelines from the MDNR below and on the MDNR Ice Safety page and enjoy the ice responsibly.

• Your safety is your responsibility! There is not a reliable "inch-thickness" to determine if ice is safe.

• You can test ice thickness and quality using a spud, needle bar or auger.

• Strongest ice: clear with bluish tint.

• Weak ice: ice formed by melted and refrozen snow. Appears milky.

• Stay off ice with slush on top. Slush ice is only half as strong as clear ice and indicates the ice is not freezing from the bottom.

• A sudden cold front with low temperatures can create cracks within a half-day.

• A warm spell may take several days to weaken ice, and cause the ice to thaw during the day and refreeze at night.

• Ice weakens with age.

• If there’s ice on the lake but water around the shoreline, be extra cautious.

• Stronger the current on the lake, the more likely the ice will give to open water.

• Avoid areas of ice with protruding debris like logs or brush.

• Keep an eye out for dock bubblers or de-icers as the ice near these mechanisms will be unsafe. Always check the ice and be aware of your surroundings.

You can find a video and additional resources for your safety education on the MDNR Ice Safety Page.

Enjoy the ice responsibly!

HLIA Mission

The Hutchins Lake Improvement Association promotes the environmental quality and wise use of Hutchins Lake and its watershed to preserve the health of the lake community and recreational opportunities for both present and future generations through education, communication, and commitment.  Hutchins Lake is in southwest Michigan, near the city of Fennville and the Allegan State Game Area.

HLIA is a member of the Michigan Waterfront Alliance.  MWA is a nonprofit corporation formed to protect, serve, and promote wise use of Michigan’s inland waters.  MWA is involved in such specific issues as environmental law, riparian doctrine, water rights, and marine safety.

Become a member of the HLIA to help protect the ecology and enjoyment of Hutchins Lake for generations to come.

Learn About Lake Ecology and Law at MSU Online

Would you like to learn more about lake ecology, watersheds, shoreline, aquatic plant management, and Michigan water law?

Register for the Michigan State University Introduction to Lakes Online course to build your knowledge and be better equipped to protect Hutchins Lake for generations to come. 

To encourage registration, the HLIA will reimburse the registration fee for one lucky HLIA Member! Enter to win using our contact form by January 1, 2025.  Proof of completion and current membership status is required for reimbursement.