Preventing ice formation over bodies of water in Minecraft involves manipulating the light level directly above the water source. Water blocks freeze into ice when exposed to a light level of zero within a specific temperature range. For example, placing a light source, like a torch or glowstone, directly above or adjacent to the water body will elevate the light level, inhibiting the freezing process.
Maintaining open water sources in colder biomes offers several advantages. It allows for consistent access to fishing opportunities regardless of the ambient temperature. Furthermore, unobstructed water flow is crucial for certain automated farms and industrial setups that rely on the liquid’s properties. Historically, players have sought effective methods to manage water freezing to optimize resource gathering and maintain operational efficiency in challenging environments.