Ice-breaking begins on St. Marys River

NEWS RELEASE

U.S. NATIONAL
COAST GUARD

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St Marys River ice breaking operations

The United States Coast Guard started breaking ice in the lower St Marys River in preparation for the 2013 shipping season.

Beginning next week, ice breaking operations will extend from Whitefish Bay to Detour.

On the 14th of March, USCGC Mackinaw (pictured), USCGC Biscayne Bay and CCGS Samuel Risley will lock through to the upper St Marys River.

USCGC Mackinaw, USCGC Biscayne Bay will make their way to Duluth/Superior to assist CGC Alder with the break out there.

CCGS Samuel Risley will make their way to Thunder Bay, Ontario to initiate the break out there.

The U.S. Coast Guard intends to break ice in the lower end of the West Neebish Channel from Mud Lake Junction Buoy to Sawmill Point beginning the 15th of March and will open the entire West Neebish Channel (above the Neebish Island Ferry Crossing) the 23rd of March. 

U.S. Coast Guard officials are working with EUPTA officials to ensure the ferries are able to operate throughout the break out process.

Recreational users of the ice should plan their activity carefully, use caution near the ice, and stay away from shipping channels.

Further inquiries can be made by phone to Sault Vessel Traffic Service at (906) 635-3232 or via email at [email protected].

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