Beltrami County authorities announced the continuation of a vehicle ban on Upper Red Lake after a Wednesday meeting between various stakeholders, including local resort operators and emergency services. The decision comes in the wake of multiple ice rescues and safety concerns raised due to inconsistent ice conditions on the lake.
The ban, originally instituted on December 30, 2023, was the response to a series of perilous breakthroughs where over 100 fishermen needed to be rescued after becoming stranded on an ice floe. Sheriff Jason Riggs indicated that the ban aims to prevent further incidents, as "private parties remain prohibited from operating their motor vehicles on the ice," according to WDIO.
While the proscription on motor vehicles stands, there are exceptions for resort operators and guide services. These groups have been granted permission to ensure the "wellness and well-being of their customers," as stated in a CBS News report.
Sheriff Riggs at a meeting highlighted their vital role saying, "Many of you [resort operators] are your customers' first responders and you assist them. That is why I'm allowing you to serve your customers."
Despite some areas of the lake boasting nearly a foot of ice, conditions remain treacherous. Beltrami County officials plan not to conduct any checks on the lake until the following Monday to give the ice time to hopefully solidify more securely. Greater Minnesota Rental has shut down their lake access, with Marlys Lord Carlson saying, "I've never seen a year like this [...] We're just not able to safely feel for our anglers to be out there," according to CBS News.
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