With ice fishing season winding down, Saskatchewan fishermen are reminded that all ice fishing shelters south of Highway 16 must be removed by March 15.

Shelters in areas north of Highway 16 must be removed by March 31.

Every year, ice fishing shelters are abandoned on the ice. When the ice melts, these can pose a danger to boaters, water-skiers and others enjoying the province's lakes.

Pieces of abandoned shelters can also wash up on the shore, causing environmental hazards.

If shelters are not removed by the designated dates, owners may be prosecuted and the structure and contents may be removed off the ice and confiscated.

Please remember that all litter must also be removed from the ice.

Caution is advised on the ice. Slush indicates that the ice is eroding from above and below at an advanced rate. Changing temperatures can cause thermal cracks and pressure ridges, which are indicators of unsafe conditions.