Maybe you're right Piker, but I'm not sure it's that easy. The counter argument I heard back when there was a major shut down of lake aeration systems a few years ago is that, regardless of whether you close the road in, close the lake to ice fishing, post more signs whatever, as soon as you make a hole in the ice you are legally liable for any harm that occurs because of that action, unless you follow the requirements of AEP as agreed with the Soicitor General - primarily maintaining fencing around any open water or thin ice created. It doesn't matter if someone ignores the closures and signs and is there illegally. The same rules apparently apply.
I'm no lawyer but I've heard of other instances where an individual has protection from loss or harm even when committing an illegal act. That may be contrary to common sense but I suspect it's true. Hopefully there's a lawyer or someone on AO with direct knowledge who could clarify this.
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