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Coast Guard establishes safety zones around geotechnical vessels

All vessels prohibited from entering into, transiting, or anchoring within safety zones in Straits of Mackinac
Mackinac_Bridge_summer_scene
Mackinac Bridge: Credit Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).
NEWS RELEASE
UNITED STATES COAST GUARD
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Coast Guard Safety Zones in Straits of Mackinac

SAULT SAINTE MARIE, Mich. – To protect the safety of life and property, the Coast Guard established two safety zones around vessels conducting geotechnical investigations in the Straits of Mackinac. 

A 500 yard temporary safety zone is established around the Jack-Up Barge JUB-100 and the geotechnical vessel Highland Eagle, while these vessels conduct geotechnical investigations in the Straits of Mackinac. The vessels will conduct their work approximately ½ mile to 1.5 miles west of the Mackinac Bridge. 

Effective immediately, all vessels are prohibited from entering into, transiting, or anchoring within these safety zones, unless authorized by the Captain of the Port Sault Sainte Marie. The Captain of the Port or his representative can be contacted via VHF Channel 16 or telephone at (906) 635-3233.  These safety zones are in effect until September 30, 2019.

Additionally, the barge Big Digger is conducting diver operations west of the Mackinac Bridge. The Coast Guard reminds the boating public to properly interpret day shapes, flags, and lights in accordance with the Navigation Rules. To coordinate passing arrangements with the barge Big Digger, hail the vessel on an appropriate VHF channel. 

Jack-Up Barge JUB-100 is a 90-foot portable jack-up barge, Highland Eagle is a 236-foot geotechnical vessel, and Big Digger is a 200-foot barge operating with the Tug Kimberley Anne. 

For further information contact LT Sean Murphy, Coast Guard Sector Sault Sainte Marie Public Affairs Officer, at (906)-635-3223.

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