A Citizen Science Odyssey
Freeze The Future harnesses the power of an ice diver community science network to understand how warmer winters and degrading ice conditions are affecting our lakes.
Exploring the Future of Freshwater
Freeze The Future is a pioneering ice diving program dedicated to uncovering the secrets of freshwater ecosystems through science, adventure, and exploration. Our mission is to increase scientific understanding of ice-covered lakes and their connection to global climate change by using innovative diving techniques to collect and analyze samples from beneath the ice.
Engage
Our Work
At Freeze The Future, we bring together a team of expert ice divers, scientists, and citizen researchers to explore the unseen world beneath frozen lakes. Our work focuses on:
Scientific Discovery – We collect algae and water samples from under the ice to help researchers better understand the roles these organisms play in freshwater ecosystems.
Innovation in Ice Diving – By training and expanding the number of skilled ice divers, we ensure more frequent and effective sample collection missions.
Indigenous Collaboration – We partner with local Indigenous water keepers, sharing knowledge and fostering meaningful community engagement in freshwater research.
Public Engagement – Through filmmaking, storytelling, and education, we aim to inspire action and increase awareness of climate change’s impact on our water systems.
Our History
Phase 1 - Beta
Lake Simcoe & Georgian Bay, Winter 2023.
Expedition aim: Can we do this?
Result: Yes we can!
Phase 2 - Out There
Lake Of The Woods, Winter 2024.
Expedition aim: Can we do this for real?
Result: Yes we can!
Freezing The Future
Starting in the winter of 2025, the Freeze The Future team is rapidly moving ahead with multiple annual expeditions gathering as many samples as possible and driving forward winter fresh water research.
Why It Matters
Freshwater lakes are critical to life on Earth, yet they are undergoing rapid changes due to rising global temperatures. Freeze The Future seeks to bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding by providing unprecedented access to under-ice environments. Our work contributes to cryo-banks, long-term preservation efforts, and the broader scientific literature to support sustainable water management and conservation efforts.
Training
Our mission is driven by a dedicated and talented team of volunteers. The work we do is highly specialized, so we want to make sure everyone has the proper skills to match their passion. Freeze the Future trains citizen scientists to support our work not just under the ice, but top side as well. Once our samples are collected, it’s time to start processing them for transport. This is a fantastic opportunity for our team members to get trained on sampling methods and play a huge role in the scientific process. This training happens in the field and teaches transferable skills that our volunteers can take to other citizen science initiatives locally or across the country.
MEDIA
In March of 2025 Andrew sat down with Matt Galloway to discuss Freeze The Future on CBC Radio’s the Current. You can listen to the audio by clicking the link below.
Join The Mission
Freeze The Future is more than a research project—it’s a movement. Whether you’re a scientist, diver, student, or supporter of climate action, you can be part of our journey. Follow our expeditions, support our research, and help us Freeze The Future for generations to come.
For more information, collaborations, or media inquiries, contact us at: andrew.budziak@gmail.com
