ST. PAUL, Minn. — This winter marks the third season since Minnesota implemented a law banning waste on frozen lakes, which can result in a $100 fine.

Officials report the law is effectively reducing litter.

“From 2022 to 2024, the resorts, the businesses, the ice road businesses, said there’s a drastic difference in what they’re seeing," Zach Gutknecht of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency said. "They know the program’s working."

Efforts are underway at over 50 lakes statewide, with local groups tailoring their approaches.

“It’s grassroots efforts working on a statewide level,” Gutknecht said.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has backed these initiatives with Clean Water Fund grants, available through various local boards and districts. These funds are part of the 2025

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