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Group Sault Ste Marie |
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| Press Release |
Date: January 20, 2004 Contact: LT. (j.g.) Sam Kasten |
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COAST GUARD WORKS TO FREE M/V EDGAR B. SPEER FROM “ROCK CUT” SAULT STE. MARIE, MI – The Coast Guard continues to assist the Motor Vessel EDGAR B. SPEER which became stuck on the 18th of January in the West Neebish Channel (locally known as the Rock Cut). The Coast Guard Cutters MACKINAW, BISCAYNE BAY, and KATMAI BAY have been diligently working to free the thousand foot freighter and her cargo of iron ore. Once the SPEER became stuck (“beset”) in the ice all other down bound traffic was stopped. Presently there are ten vessels moored or at anchor waiting to transit through West Neebish Channel. Due to continued ice breaking operations in West Neebish channel all ice users (especially snowmobile enthusiast) are requested to keep clear of the area. The Coast Guard reiterates that this area is very dangerous due to heavy cutter transits and weakened ice conditions. The Coast Guard request all ice enthusiast to keep clear until ice breaking operations cease and the ice strengthens. Island residences are reminded to contact the Coast Guard if emergency transports (for medical conditions, etc.) are needed. In the event of an emergency the Coast Guard will assess the situation and respond with cutter or helicopter assistance. Further inquiries can be made by phone to LTJG Sam Kasten or via email at skasten@grusaultstemarie.uscg.mil or to the Group Duty Officer at (906) 635-3233.
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