Public comment period opens for shipwreck cleanup in northern Lake Huron

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy has opened a public comment period regarding a proposal to remove marine debris from historic shipwrecks in the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and State Bottomland Preserve. The project, funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, will target approximately 10 shipwrecks in northern Lake Huron.

The National Marine Sanctuaries Foundation will use technical divers or remotely operated vehicles to remove derelict fishing gear and unpermitted anchoring systems. Funding will also support the installation of permanent mooring systems at up to four selected sites to improve diver safety and reduce anchor damage.

Written comments on the proposed activity are due by 5:00 p.m. On November 12, 2026. The state is reviewing the project for consistency with Michigan’s Coastal Management Program Under the federal Coastal Zone Management Act.

Read the full story at michigan.gov.