> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.aqua.network/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.aqua.network/aqua-and-ice/overview.md).

# ICE delegation

Aquarius Delegation makes it easier for ICE holders to stay active in the protocol without having to vote on every decision themselves. By delegating, you let trusted community members (called **delegates**) use your voting power while you continue to receive all rewards and benefits.

Delegation exists in **two tracks**:

* **Market voting** → using *upvoteICE* to decide which liquidity pools earn AQUA emissions.
* **Governance voting** → using *governICE* to decide on protocol upgrades and DAO proposals.

This system helps keep Aquarius governance efficient, fair, and broadly representative — even if some holders don’t have the time or expertise to vote directly.

### Why delegation matters

Delegation was designed with three main goals in mind:

* **Better experience for holders** – you can support the protocol and earn rewards without active management.
* **Higher utilization of ICE** – less voting power left idle, more decisions reflect the community.
* **Opportunities for active users** – delegates who take on responsibility can earn reputation and, in some cases, extra incentives.

### Roles at a glance

* **Delegators** – ICE holders who assign their voting power to someone else. They keep ownership of their tokens and receive any rewards generated.
* **Delegates** – community members who accept voting power from others and cast votes on their behalf, according to their own strategy or stated commitments.

### Key features

* You can delegate *upvoteICE*, *governICE*, or both.
* You can choose the same delegate for both, or different ones.
* You can **split your voting power between multiple delegates**, giving each a portion of your ICE.
* Delegation is flexible — you can revoke or change it anytime (with a 24-hour cooldown).
* Rewards (like bribes in market votes) always flow back to the delegator, never the delegate.

To learn how to delegate ICE and vote with delegated ICE, please refer to the [interface guide](/aqua-and-ice/overview/user-guide-for-delegation.md).