ICE OUT IS DECLARED!

Many thanks to all who participated in the Winnisquam Watershed Network's first Annual Ice-Out Contest. The WWN's Ice Watcher Team, headed by long time ice "aficionado" Peter Dupak, has been diligently checking the ice conditions over the last few week. While up to last week there still appeared to be a thin but solid ice cover for the vast majority of the lake, the last few days has seen a dramatic change to Winnisquam's ice conditions. A combination of warm spells, rain and strong winds quickly broke up the ice to the point that as of 6:00 pm this Monday, April 6th, the WWN Ice Watcher Team has officially declared Ice-Out, as over 90% of the lake is now considered ice free. 

WE HAVE A WINNER!

Congratulations to WWN member Toni Bowden who had the sole submission of April 6th as her projection for Ice-Out. Toni will receive the coveted WWN Ice-Out Contest Winner Trophy, and she also had the opportunity to "Split the Pot" of $730 with WWN on the total dollars collected in Ice-Out Guess submissions. Toni has generously offered to donate her winnings back to WWN! Thanks to all who submitted guesses and in turn supported the work of the Winnisquam Watershed Network. 

HISTORICAL ICE COVERAGE

The length of ice cover each winter is a key indicator of a lake’s health and changing climate conditions. In recent years, shorter ice cover periods have meant earlier warming of the water, which can impact fish habitats, reduce oxygen levels, and shift the timing of aquatic plant growth. These changes can also increase the risk of harmful algal blooms later in the season. By tracking ice-in and ice-out dates on Lake Winnisquam, scientists and local organizations can better understand long-term trends and take action to protect the lake’s water quality and ecosystem.