Chronology of 2024-2025 Rice Lake Winter Aeration project
November 24, 2024 - Winter Aeration signs posted along shoreline
​In preparation for the winter aeration later this season, signs were posted at various entry points to the lake reminding everyone that winter aeration will be conducted on the lake which will mean there will be areas of open water present. Please use caution when venturing out onto the lake once winter aeration begins.
(Aeration Warning sign locations)

This page will track the activities related to the winter aeration of Rice Lake for the 2024-2025 season. Most recent activities are at the bottom of this page.
September 26, 2024 - Winter Aeration permit approved by MN DNR
​The Minnesota DNR approved operation of the winter aeration system on Rice Lake for the 2024-2025 season. (Click here to view the permit)
September 4, 2024 - City of Maple Grove provides Certificate of Liability Insurance for system operation
​The City of Maple Grove provided insurance coverage for running the aeration system off City property. (Click here to view the policy information)
This page was last updated on: November 24, 2024
Number of visitors since November 21, 2020

Started at 226
November 7 & 14, 2024 - Winter Aeration public notice in Osseo-Maple Grove Press
​Per Minnesota DNR requirements, a public notice must be run in the local newspaper prior to any operation of the winter aeration system on Rice Lake for the 2024-2025 season. (Click here to view the notices)
Why do we aerate? Click here for some background.
See below for photos of various activities related to Winter Aeration
September 2, 2024 - RLAA submitted permit renewal to MN DNR
Permit AERP3222 pending for MN DNR review and approval for the 2024-2025 winter aeration season. 
xxxx - Winter Aeration system started up
With xx" of ice in the area, the winter aeration system was started up today. Diffuser holes were drilled and located with GPS markings captured this past fall. Thin Ice signs were posted around the perimeter. 
Winter Aeration start-up on xxxx
xxxx - Volunteer crew of xxxx drilled the start-up holes for the diffusers and posted xx Thin Ice signs around the anticipated open water area. The system will continue to run on a 24-hour basis until further notice.