A smoky haze hovered over Ford Lake on Thursday, bringing an unusual calm to Ford Lake Park in Ypsilanti Township, a venue that should have been packed with spectators and competitors for Row Fest 2026.

To celebrate the end of the coldest of seasons, we asked readers to show us their coolest winter photos (pun intended).

WASHTENAW COUNTY, Mich. – Health officials are reminding residents and visitors that a public health advisory for harmful algal blooms in Ford Lake in Ypsilanti remains in effect. Do not swallow the lake water. READ: Help Me Hank: Keeping your pets safe from toxic algaeSome algal blooms are made of cyanobacteria that have the ability to produce toxins, causing a harmful algal bloom. A Ford Lake resident notified the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services of a suspected harmful algal bloom earlier this summer. READ: Washtenaw County residents cautioned about potential toxic algal bloom in Ford LakeWhat you need to know

WASHTENAW COUNTY, Mich. Officials with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Washtenaw County Health Department issued a public health advisory Thursday for a suspected harmful algal bloom (HAB) in Ford Lake. There are different types of naturally occurring algal blooms that may be seen on lakes and rivers. Additionally, recent testing confirmed microcystin toxin in the water, indicating the possibility of a HAB, but inspectors did not observe one. People can water ski, boat and tube but it is advised that caution be taken in doing so in areas with visible algal scums. Ford Lake is under a Do Not Eat Fish Advisory.