After a successful launch of the ice fishing shack registry program on Gull Lake last year, Lacombe County is expanding that program to include Buffalo Lake this year.

The idea of the 'Take it Off' program is to register your shack online and attach an ID card to the front of your shack.

The goal is to have all shacks removed before the ice melts, with March 31st designated as the final removal date.

Environmental Coordinator with Lacombe County Jennifer Berry says this can give people a sense of ownership over the lake, and make it more likely for you to avoid a situation that can be costly to both you and the environment.

“We just asked that your register it, and that way we figure that if you were attaching your name and identification number to the hut, you are more likely to take it off at the end of the season rather than leaving it out there and causing detrimental impact to the lake quality.”

Berry says the free and voluntary program helps make sure no one loses a shack through the ice come spring time, but it also is designed to keep the area clean and safe for wildlife.

“When we say ‘Take it Off’ we kind of mean everything not just the hut, but garbage and debris sometimes left behind as well. So we just ask that whatever your bring out there, you bring back with you.”

Berry says debris includes wood that may have been used for a fire on the ice.

To register for the on Sylvan Lake, click here to visit sylvanlake.ca/take-it-off.

For more information you can go to lacombecounty.com, or by calling the Lacombe County office at 1-403-782-8959.