On-scene weather conditions Tuesday continue to delay the on-going salvage operations of the Arthur J, the 110-foot dredge barge that is grounded and partially sunk two miles off the shore of Lakeport, Mich., in Lake Huron.
This is the second day that weather and sea state have caused a delay in the salvage of the vessel that partially sank on Thursday.
Waves measuring 4-6 feet are causing conditions deemed too dangerous for salvage crews to attempt to remove the vessel from the lake. Anticipating a window of favorable weather conditions, responders plan to continue salvage operations Wednesday morning, before more severe weather conditions, predicted later in the day, cause any further delays.
Environmental clean-up operations over the last several days continue to be successful. The substantial threat to the environment has been mitigated through removal of fuel and oil from the wreck.
Clean-up crews will continue to walk the beaches to ensure they meet a standard approved by the state of Michigan and St. Clair County Health Department officials.
The Unified Command has reopened all Lake Huron beaches that were previously closed.
In the event that debris from the sunken vessels washes ashore, the public should call the local hazardous material removal unit so the hazardous material can be safely and properly disposed of.
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Dredging Today Staff, July 25, 2012; Image: US Coast Guard