I wouldn't separate on a cane-by-cane basis. Dividing the clumps in halves or quarters with a sharp instrument would be fine. Take care not to mash around the base of the living perimeter canes--that is where next season's new canes are budded.

If your dug clumps have a lot of soil you may be fine; if too many roots become exposed, expect less vigor of the new canes for a year until the transplants are re-established.

Do this sooner than later as fine new root growth can occur in your area any time now.

Thanks for the advice. Yeah, things are waking up here.....