02-02-2013, 05:17 PM
[#0000FF]It is never a good idea to run machines over the ice if you don't know the location of danger spots. Problem is, a lot of those weak spots don't show up like the one in the picture and you can get wet before you have any warning.
There are lots of unplanned dunkings on Utah waters every year. Not only from springs but from methane "bubblers" like on Bear Lake. The real problems come when there is a new snow fall that rests on the water and disguises it as safe ice. Splash.
The big spring that feeds the "abyss" is deep enough that the thermal flow is mostly cooled by lake water before it reaches the surface and leaves an opening. But it does sometimes weaken the ice and there were a couple of goose hunters that went through out there last year.
Thankfully, Dave is very familiar with the route out to the spot and knows that it is pretty safe with decent ice covering. We drilled through at least 8 to 10 inches of clear hard ice almost everywhere yesterday. Plenty thick for wheelers.
Appreciate your concern.
[/#0000FF]
[signature]
There are lots of unplanned dunkings on Utah waters every year. Not only from springs but from methane "bubblers" like on Bear Lake. The real problems come when there is a new snow fall that rests on the water and disguises it as safe ice. Splash.
The big spring that feeds the "abyss" is deep enough that the thermal flow is mostly cooled by lake water before it reaches the surface and leaves an opening. But it does sometimes weaken the ice and there were a couple of goose hunters that went through out there last year.
Thankfully, Dave is very familiar with the route out to the spot and knows that it is pretty safe with decent ice covering. We drilled through at least 8 to 10 inches of clear hard ice almost everywhere yesterday. Plenty thick for wheelers.
Appreciate your concern.
[/#0000FF]
[signature]