The Pembina Valley Water Co-op is warning snowmobilers and other outdoor winter enthusiasts to use extra caution on Stephenfield Lake over the winter months.

A portion of the lake has been marked with fences and signs warning of thin ice and potentially open water, due to an aeration field on the lake.

Greg Archibald, CEO for the PVWC, says, "because there's air being added under the water, it causes the ice not to form."

The PVWC is partnering with the conservation district for a second year to help upkeep the condition of the lake.

"It will help us control some elements that we're wanting to keep down, so the manganese levels, and at the same time it actually helps the fish life also," says Archibald.

People using the lake are urged to take notice of posted signs and to use extreme caution in the area.

"It's a safety reminder just to make sure that people don't go over to that corner of the lake," Archibald adds.