MOSINEE, Wis. (WSAU) – The ice is about to go away on part of the Big Eau Pleine as the lake's aerator is switched on.
The system will be activated on Tuesday to open up a large patch of ice on the lake. That will help get oxygen circulating back into the lake through the surface of the water. Officials say the lake levels are about 6 feet below normal right now and that dissolved oxygen is low enough to warrant the activation.
DNR personnel are putting up rope barriers, flags and reflective signs out on the ice to ensure that fishermen, drivers and snowmobilers know about the open ice. Warning signs have also been posted at the boat landings. Expect the ice to start softening up under the snow cover and don't venture past the signs even if the ice looks solid.
The aerator will remain on until the ice melts from the lake.