Lake Ice Observation Network

Climate change is causing significant declines in the duration of ice cover on lakes across the northern hemisphere. The Lake Ice Observation Network is meant to crowdsource lake ice data to help researchers better understand these changes. Two types of data are being collected as part of this project:

1) Information on the duration and extent of ice cover on lakes

These are simple observations indicating whether a lake or pond has no ice cover, partially covered, mostly covered, or completely covered. These observations help scientists understand the timing of the onset, duration, and loss of ice each year. It is easy to submit observations of a lake you live on or near or make a mental note of the condition of a lake you drive by on your way to work. If you really want to have fun with it, you can submit observations while riding in a vehicle, contributing many data points while on a road trip! The more observations you contribute, the better. For example, it is ok to submit regular observations throughout the winter indicating that a lake is ice covered. It is not necessary to wait to only submit observations of the first and last days of ice cover each year. If you happen to catch the first or last day of ice cover, it is helpful to make note of that. Any data, no matter the time of year, helps advance our understanding of how lake ice changes.

2) Information on ice thickness and snow depth

These observations are particularly valuable because they help researchers understand the volume of ice that has formed on a lake. Ice thickness and snow depth measurements require going out onto the ice. Remember, there is no such thing as safe ice. You should check the thickness of the ice before venturing too far out, wear a flotation device, carry ice picks, and make sure a friend or family member knows where you are. We encourage folks planning to recreate on the ice to submit these observations, whether for ice fishing, nordic skating, or another activity.

How do I contribute observations?

You can submit observations using the button below. We also have instructions on downloading an app to your smartphone that allows you to save and submit observations when you don’t have an internet connection. If you are already drilling holes in the ice for fishing or to check the safety for skating or other activities, you are already making these observations, and it will take you less than a minute to send those in. If you have questions, please

Can I see observations others have reported?

Yes! You can view a map of observations below. Please note that this information should not be used to assess lake ice safety. Before venturing onto any frozen body of water, you should check the thickness of the ice before venturing too far out, wear a flotation device, carry ice picks, and make sure a friend or family member knows where you are. You can read more about ice safety on the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation’s website.