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, were stalled due to strong winds and a very choppy sea state, Monday.
Environmental clean up operations over the last several days continues 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 24, 2012; Image: U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Levi Read