By Tom Hintgen, staff writer

FERGUS FALLS — Old-timers who reside in the Henning area say it’s very rare when you see all of the ice gone from area lakes, prior to March 31. Some haven’t seen warm temperatures like this since the 1930s.

This was evident last week when Andrew Johnson raked leaves at Middle Leaf Resort, along the chain of West, Middle and East Leaf Lakes, north of Henning. Middle Leaf Resort, close to Highway 108, includes six cabins, a clubhouse and seven RV sites.

“It’s nice to get some work done, in advance of what’s normally the case,” said Johnson, who works for Steve Willett, one of the resort owners. “This allows us to spread out the chores, and not have to be in such a hurry prior to the spring opening.”

Banking on a good resort season this year are area businesses such as Ron’s Ready Mart near Clitherall. Late last week Jean Michael, an employee at Ron’s store, also noted old-timers telling her this is one of the few times ice is out on area lakes before the end of March.

The sale of gasoline and groceries are the main things that draw customers.