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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The North Dakota Game & Fish Department is urging anglers to consider removing their permanent ice houses earlier than the state’s March 15th deadline.

The department is reporting ice conditions that are deteriorating in the state, especially in the southern and western portions. Game & Fish say the current long range weather forecast predicts temperatures above normal for this time of the year.

Department Education Coordinator Brian Schaffer says mild weather can quickly result in unstable ice conditions that can make removing a fish house with a vehicle difficult or dangerous.

“It is always important to check ice thickness, especially this time of year,” Schaffer said. “We have heard recent reports of several vehicles breaking through the ice, and anyone going on the ice should be extra careful.”

Ice conditions can vary from region to region, between lakes in the same region, and even on the same lake, Schaffer added. “We know people want to keep fishing,” he said, “but given the current conditions it’s good for anglers to keep safety in mind.”