Some safety warnings and harbor announcements have been made for local boaters. The boating season has switched into high gear in the region, and boaters are contending with historic high-water levels. According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, some Great Lakes water levels will be a foot higher in 2020 than during spring 2019.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is warning boaters to be aware of hidden debris, especially on the shorelines, when out on rivers and lakes. The erosion from the record-high water levels has undermined docks, decks, stairs, and trees, and has sometimes washed the structures away from the shoreline.
Boaters should be aware that repairs are underway at both the Lexington and Port Austin State Harbors. Marine diesel fuel is not currently available at the Lexington Harbor and Port Austin Harbor has limited services due to emergency repairs.
Boaters are also asked to respect no-wake zones, as the combination of high water and waves can wreak havoc on waterfront property. More information can be found on the DNR’s website <HERE>.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
