Tilton, NH April 12, 2009 "ICE OUT" on Lake Winnipesaukee occurred at 12:00 noon April 12, 2009. The official "ICE OUT" was declared by Dave Emerson of Emerson Aviation of Gilford.

Observers have maintained a close watch of the disintegrating ice over the past week. High winds over the last few days help push out the last strongholds.

"ICE OUT" becomes official when the route of the MS Mount Washington is clear and navigable. That is, the ship must be able to cruise among its five ports: Alton Bay, Center Harbor, Meredith, Weirs Beach, and Wolfeboro. Records of "Ice Out" date back into the 1800's. The earliest "Ice Out" reported was on March 28, 1921 and the latest on May 12, 1888. On average Ice Out appears in mid- April. The event serves as one of the annual omens of warmer weather, creating much speculation locally. More importantly, the occurrence signals the advent of another tourist season.

About Lakes Region Association

The Lakes Region Association is a non-profit organization established in 1936 to promote the region in-state, out-of-state and internationally to attract more visitors to the area. The Association publishes the Where to! Guide and the Official Lakes Region Map & Guide and maintains an award-winning web site www.lakesregion.org . To request a free vacation package, call 1-800-60-LAKES.