SAULT STE. MARIE, MI (AP)-- The U.S. Coast Guard says it has launched ice-breaking operations in the western Great Lakes.
Officials announced Wednesday they have started what they call “Operation Taconite” in Lake Superior and Lake Michigan, as well as northern Lake Huron, Georgian Bay, Green Bay, the Straits of Mackinac and St. Marys River.
The effort responds to expanding ice in commercial ports. Ice-breaking is done for several reasons, including search and rescue, flood control or to serve vessels or communities in need.
Operation Taconite is one of two ice-breaking operations on the Great Lakes.
