Kent Henschen - Realtor with Edina Realty, Chippewa Valley, WI

12/27/2025

Retired from Real Estate December 23, 2025

12/21/2025

Have a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year!

12/13/2025

Tis' the season! Be careful, be safe!
The Wisconsin DNR emphasizes that no ice is 100% safe, but offers general thickness guidelines from other sources like Minnesota DNR: 4 inches for walking/fishing, 5-7 inches for ATVs/snowmobiles, 9-12 inches for cars, and even more for heavier vehicles, stressing that factors like currents and snow make ice quality variable. Always check local conditions with bait shops or clubs, let someone know your plans, carry ice picks, and remember that snow slows freezing, so thicker ice is needed.
General Ice Thickness Guidelines (New, Clear Ice)
Less than 4 inches: Stay off.
4 inches: Walking, ice fishing, skating (foot traffic).
5-7 inches: Snowmobile, ATV.
8-12 inches: Car, small pickup truck.
12-15 inches: Medium truck.
Important Safety Tips
Variable Ice: Appearance, age, temperature, and snow cover all affect strength; clear ice is stronger.
Check Locally: The WI DNR doesn't monitor ice, so consult local bait shops, fishing clubs, or outfitters for current conditions.
Test the Ice: Drill holes every 10-20 yards, or tap the ice with a chisel as you walk.
Never Go Alone: Tell someone where you're going and when you'll return.
Carry Safety Gear: Ice picks, ropes, and flotation suits are recommended.
Beware of Currents & Snow: Flowing water creates weak spots, and snow insulates, slowing freezing.

How thick should ice be to walk, snowmobile, skate or drive on? Check out these recommended ice thickness guidelines. How much ice or ice thickness is needed to be safe? Review the DNR's ice chart.

11/24/2025

11/08/2025

Join me today 12pm-1:30pm to see this very unique lake front home for yourself.

11/08/2025

This fall offers more opportunities for homebuyers. Longer market times and lower interest rates offer

10/28/2025

10/15/2025

09/04/2025

New Listing! Great opportunity in Durand!

09/01/2025

Are you relocating? Handling a distant estate? Buying a vacation home? If you have real estate needs outside your local area, our resources and trusted network can help.