New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Media contact: Dan Williams, (505) 476-8004
Public contact: (505) 476-8000
dan.williams@state.nm.us

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, DEC. 14, 2011:

ICE TOO DANGEROUS FOR FISHING AT FENTON LAKE

LA CUEVA -- Fenton Lake likely will remain closed to ice fishing through the winter because thermal activity is creating unsafe ice conditions, the Department of Game and Fish and the State Parks Division announced.

Although the lake is covered with ice, columns of warm water rising from the lake bottom can weaken the ice and in some places create holes where anglers could fall through. The lake will reopen to fishing and boating when the ice clears or if officials determine the ice is safe for walking and angling. The ice is considered safe when it is at least nine inches thick throughout the lake surface, according to criteria established by the Department.

Fenton Lake State Park will remain open for camping and other activities.

For more information and updates, please contact Fenton Lake State Park, (575) 829-3630. Information also is available on the Department of Game and Fish or New Mexico State Parks respective websites, www.wildlife.state.nm.us and www.nmparks.com.

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