SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. — The U.S. Coast Guard has begun it’s seasonal ice breaking work, called Operation Taconite, to prevent newly formed ice from hindering commercial traffic.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter SPAR is assigned to manage the ice breaking needs of western Lake Superior, specifically the twin ports of Duluth, Minnesota and Superior, Wisconsin. As ice coverage expands, officials will assign additional icebreakers.
Operation Taconite is the Coast Guard’s largest domestic icebreaking operation. It covers Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, the St. Marys River, the Straits of Mackinac and the Georgian Bay.
The Coast Guard recommends all recreational ice users plan their activities carefully, use caution on the ice, and stay clear from shipping channels.
For more information, residents can contact the U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Service at 906-635-3299 or via email at SOOTFC@USCG.MIL.
