2020 Ice Out Update…5.0

April 17, 2020…

We’ve gone through a pretty good cold snap up here at the lodge. Plenty of wood being burnt in the fireplace but when the sun is out it’s not too bad to be outside. I’m not sure what the cause is, but the lake ice seems to be expanding, buckling, groaning and cracking. I’m used to seeing ice move into shore when pushed by the wind, but the lake is frozen to shore so wind isn’t the likely cause of this phenomenon….the tectonic plates of Eagle Lake…

Buckling ice on shore
Pushing into the deck.
Ice out by the small island.
That’s not a snow drift…that’s ice pushed up in the creek.
Stella and Lilly investigate the mysterious “hump”.
Down by the docks.
Nature’s Brazilian Hair Removal.

My theory on this ice movement is…

O.K., my guess on this is pretty simple. Last fall the lake levels were high and the ice formed accordingly. Over the winter water levels have dropped to their present level but the ice, which is still tight to shore, is trying to fit into a smaller space. Since it can’t shrink, it’s pushing against the shore, and itself causing these bizarre features. If you are an ice expert let me know your thoughts. If you prove my theory wrong there’s a VBL mug with your name on it…

A poplar by cabin 7

So what does a tree have to do with ice?

Not much. While contemplating some of the jobs I would like to get done this spring my thoughts turned to tree planting. Over the last 28-29 years I’ve planted / transplanted a lot of them around the camp….including this tall poplar. Back in the “day” some of the older guests might remember Bernie the horse. Yes we had a horse that would wander around the camp! He was particularly fond of this poplar when I planted it because it was the perfect height for him to straddle for a good belly scratch.

Let’s see a few of the other trees I’ve planted…

The cedar by the lodge.
The red pine (s) by cabin 3

Border update…

Canada and the US have agreed to extend the border closure for non-essential travel for another 30 day period….meaning it is now closed till May 18th. This affects our first week of potentially being open. For those who are impacted I will be contacting you to suggest a few options….moving to a later date in the season, or reserving the same dates for 2021. We will continue to try and keep you updated on any future changes as things become known.

Dogs by the docks
Susanne practising social distancing!

Still haven’t got your ice out guess in yet? What are you waiting for?

Keep up to date with The Electric Beaver, The Official Eagle Lake Blog since 2008

Read Now

Testimonials

If you like GREAT fishing, hospitality and affordability, Vermilion Bay Lodge is highly recommended. I have been making the trip to Vermilion Bay Lodge for the past 10 years and have never once been disappointed. If you like great walleye, northern, musky and trout fishing, this place should not be overlooked. The fishing has been excellent… no matter what time we went. Gordy and Susanne are wonderful hosts that will make you feel right at home. Check it out – I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Arnie