MINOCQUA, Wis. (WSAW) – From ice fishing to snowmobiling to skating, ice has long been a crucial element of winter activities in Wisconsin. However, the state is experiencing an uncharacteristically warm winter this year, raising concerns about the impact on the region’s iconic ice and snow-related tourism.
Visitors from across the state and beyond traditionally flock to the Northwoods to partake in the winter wonders it has to offer. Yet, the warm weather has cast a shadow on the usual hustle and bustle.
Employees at Kurt’s Island Sport Shop, a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, report a noticeable decline in business. David Peterson, an employee at Kurt’s, expressed the impact of the warmer temperatures on their operations.
“We should be busier,” Peterson said. “(We’re getting a) million phone calls from people down south asking about ice conditions, and, (then they say) well, we’ll wait a couple more weeks. That hurts.”
Customers are increasingly…
