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(Iowa) -- It may feel like spring at times this week, but the Iowa Department of Natural Resources is urging caution if you're heading out on or near the water.
Todd Roberts with the Iowa DNR says a few warm days here and there in winter are not enough to warm water temperatures:
"The water is so much colder than that air temperature. A warm day may come through, and it may feel like 60 degrees, 65 degrees, but it takes several weeks for that water to heat up."
Roberts says this is one of the best times of the year to see and photograph eagles, which usually nest near bodies of water. It's also a popular time of year for experienced paddlers who paddle year-long. Roberts recommends paddlers wear a dry suit that prevents water from touching their skin, always wear a life jacket, and paddle in groups.
