Ice Heaves
An Ice heave is a natural shoreline process caused by the movement of ice during winter nad spring. In some years, property owners may come to their cabin and learn that soil, sand, or the entire rip rap that was installed has been pushed up into a ridge or mound on the shore. This mound is often called an "ice ridge."
Ice heaves can damage docks, lifts, and other shoreline features. Getting a new ice ridge can be frustrating, but it is important to remember that ice ridges are part of owning lakeshore in Minnesota and they really can't be prevented or controlled, even by installing rip rap.
Causes of Ice Heaves
The freeze / thaw cycle generates pressure along the shoreline. The pressure builds until the shore suddenly 'pops' up.
.gif credit: credited to the Lower St. Croix Watershed Partnership
The movement of the ices sheet towards the shoreline scrapes the ground creating rough mounds along the water's edge.
Benefits of your Ice Ridge
Ice Ridges are not harmful to the lake. A natural ice ridge can provide ecological benefits by helping to create a barrier to nutrient loading, supporting nearshore vegetation, and it contributes to natural shoreline protection over time.
It is hard to understand that the lakes in Minnesota were formed 10,000 - 14,000 years ago. We notice a small change in 1 year and think that it is a big deal. In all reality, the lake has been dealing with ice pressure for a long time. The best thing you can do is maintain a natural shoreline fortified with native, deep-rooted vegetation.
Annual ice ridge on a Cass County lake.
What if I got an ice ridge this spring?
Option 1: Contact Cass SWCD for technical advice to revegetate your ice ridge.
Revegetating your shoreline using native plants will not only protect the shoreline, but the plants will also work to protect the water quality in the lake ensuring your lake remains a premier recreation destination.
and / or
Option 2: Contact Cass County Environmental Services for a shoreline alteration permit.
Shoreline alteration permits are required prior to doing any work within the shoreline setback zone of any waterbody within Cass County. Examples of work include: tree cutting, moving material, removing material, adding material, or building any structure. Please make sure you contact Environmental Services if you plan do any work within the shoreline setback zone.
Phone: 218-547-7241
Email: cass.esd@casscountymn.gov
Landowner revegetated the existing ridge.
Site Visit Request
Request a site visit with a conservation technician. Find out how your property can make a difference.
Fill out the request form or call the number below.