So, maybe I am the only one that has never heard of an ‘Ice Ridge’, but after this winter I now know what they are! Take a look at what Whitefish Lakes massive ice sheet can do.
Now what are Ice Ridges? Ice ridges are caused by the pushing action of a lake’s ice sheet against the shore. Cracks form in the ice because of different contraction rates at the top and bottom of the ice sheet. This is especially true in years that the ice sheet lacks an insulating snow cover.
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| An Ice Ridge, photographed on Whitefish Lake in 2015 |
From the Department of Natural Resources, “Minnesota winters can produce a phenomenon called “ice jacking”. This powerful natural force forms a feature along the shoreline known as an “ice ridge.” The result may include significant damage to retaining walls, docks and boat lifts, cabins, and public boat launching facilities.” If you want to see more photos of what ice jacking can do.
More information can be found on the DNR website.
We recently took some pictures of the Lake and its Ice Ridges! Check them out below.
