Lay your bets on when Alaska ice will break

Since 1917, Alaskans have bet on when the ice on the Tanana River in the town of Nenana will break each spring.

They place their wagers in red cans at grocery stores, gas stations and other retailers around the state. The bets, at $2.50 apiece, can be placed between Feb. 1 and April 5. The 2009 total reached $283,723.

Nonresidents can take part, too, by mailing their bets with a check or money order. For details and contact information, go to www.nenanaakiceclassic.com.

Your guess must include the hour and minute (Alaska time) of the ice break. Most years, the ice has broken in late April or early to mid-May.

A trip-wired tripod planted 2 feet into the ice officially records the time of the ice break. When the ice cracks, a wire connecting the tripod to a clock is triggered, stopping the clock.

Associated Press