Icebreakers to begin opening South Channel on Friday

NEWS RELEASE
U.S. COAST GUARD
*************************
On Friday, March 29, 2019, Coast Guard Cutter Hollyhock executes the breakup of the ice separating Bois Blanc and Cheboygan, Michigan also known as the South Channel.

At the request of Bois Blanc Island officials, Captain of the Port Sault Sainte Marie will open the South Channel; effective 8 a.m. EST March 29 2019.

Due to the increase in air temperature, the ice is deteriorating. Breaking up the field of ice, advances the deterioration and enables local ferries to resume service to Bois Blanc Island.

The Coast Guard recommends that members of the public who recreate on the ice, particularly those who fish, or operate snowmobiles or all - terrain vehicles on ice-covered waters of the St. Marys River, plan their activities carefully, use caution on the ice, and stay away from charted shipping channels.

Ice breaking activity weakens the ice far beyond the tracks created by the icebreakers.

For more information, contact the U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Service at (906) 635-3232 or via email at [email protected].

*************************