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At some point in time — we hope — lakes and ponds will freeze over and people will be back on those frozen surfaces with fish houses and lines for some winter fishing.

It’s a time-honored tradition in our state that anglers flock to the opportunity of ice fishing. It’s part of Minnesota’s all-around tradition of out-door recreation and it’s something we’re hoping to see more of as time goes along.

However, with this opportunity comes responsibility that you are leaving as little a footprint as you can.

Last year, a  new state law required all trash be placed in a container secured to an ice house or vehicle. This would include beverage containers, cigarette butts and fish remains.

The hope at the time, and the hope going forward, is that this new law will continue to support the conservation efforts throughout the state in order to keep our bodies of water as clean as possible.

Conservation officers would first use the opportunity to educate, but then following penalties could include a $100 fine if it’s deemed the law was violated — a petty misdemeanor.

The unfortunate reality is often, landowners and conservation officers are faced with the task of cleaning up shorelines of garbage that accumulates from anglers leaving their trash on the ice.

That’s certainly not to say all. We are blessed in this state with so many people willing to take the extra effort to make sure the land and resources they utilize are kept as pristine as possible.

And yet, there was enough examples to warrant the passing of the law.

For a state that views its outdoor opportunities with such high regard, it’s a shame when some choose to take advantage of it through laziness, carelessness or even forgetfulness.

Minnesota has great environmental attributes and opportunities. Our lakes, forests, prairies and more give state citizens and visitors ample choices for getting outside.

Leaving your trash only takes away from that and also acts to get in the way of local water conservation efforts.

When a day of fishing is complete, pick up your garbage and ensure everything is accounted for before leaving the ice.