CLEAR LAKE, Iowa – Unseasonable temperatures have already forced the cancelation of one winter tourism event in Clear Lake and an even larger attraction is in jeopardy.
The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce says the lack of sustained ice and snow cover has taken a toll on the ice fishing industry and other winter recreational activities, such as snowmobiling, in the region. The Frozen Feathers Ice Fishing Contest, originally set for January 14, has already been called off. Event organizer Ducks Unlimited says the contest draws participants and spectators alike to Clear Lake for an annual fundraising tournament, but they could not be sure the lake would be safely frozen over in time.
The Clear Lake Chamber says it is optimistic the Color the Wind Festival scheduled for February 17 will still take place. Organizers hope ice conditions will be ideal to welcome thousands onto frozen Clear Lake for what is known at the Midwest’s largest kite festival.
“We understand the …