In the interest of public safety, anglers, ice skaters and other members of the public are advised to pay close attention to changing ice conditions and use caution when approaching the shoreline of Swan Lake.

The Ministry of Forests, Lands Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development has begun lowering the level of the lake, as a precautionary measure, to reduce the chance of spring flooding in BX Creek.

The lake’s reservoir, just north of Vernon, is still covered in ice. Lowering the level of the lake may cause ice along the shoreline to become unstable, and a danger to the public.

Lowering the level of Swan Lake happens every year, usually when the lake is free of ice. However, due to an above-average snowpack, the process was started earlier this year.

Lowering the lake’s level happens gradually, and will continue until inflows taper off, post-freshet.

More information on ice conditions around Swan Lake is available by contacting Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development fish biologist Eric Hegerat at 250 490-8236.