Clean Up the Trash, or Pay For it in Cash

 

 

    With 10,000 lakes to choose from, Minnesota is a haven for ice fishing enthusiasts. Fishing success and great times in the fish house have anglers flocking to join in the fun.  But with the crowds on the ice comes one negative side-effect—trash. Now that two months of fishing are behind us, this nuisance is becoming more and more evident on our lakes.
 

    The problem is widespread and difficult to control claims the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

    “Lakes are normally ringed by fish houses this time of year, so conservation officers find it challenging to identify who is leaving trash on a lake,” said Capt. Ken Soring, DNR Enforcement Northeast Regional Manager in Grand Rapids.  

    "Another factor is the wind, which makes it difficult to prove where the trash came from," continued Soring. "And we just don’t have enough conservation officers to thoroughly enforce litter laws.”
    These litter laws can greet anglers with a rough surprise.  Littering, being a petty misdemeanor, carries a fine of up to $300.

    DNR conservation officers also have the authority to enforce other litter laws, including those that charge by the amount left.  These civil laws only require the officer to decide who the perpetrator is, and the suspected litterer can be fined and forced to clean it up.

    Officers have been working hard lately to enforce these laws on many major lakes, since this is where littering tends to be the worst.  Empty beverage cans, bags and tackle packaging are among the most common items found on the ice.
 

    Other than being an obvious eyesore, trash is also detrimental to many species of animals that can be harmed by its presence.  Birds and mammals can be tangled or choked by garbage, and it can have a negative effect on the fish environment as well.

    While the ice may not be melting yet, it is still important to remember that everything on top of it will eventually settle to the lake bottom. So, as the weather warms, it is especially important to remove all trash from the ice before it is too late.  
 

    All citizens are encouraged to contribute to solving this problem and to help maintain the environment for future generations.  This will help the overall landscape, as well as others that enjoy using our state's natural resources.