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Welland Canal Collision

Welland Canal Collision

Alanis
Photo: thestar.ca

On July 11, the 138 meter long, 12744 dwt cargo vessel Alanis and the 136 meter long, 14001 dwt cargo vessel Florence Spirit collided on the Welland Canal near the anchorage off Port Robinson. Both vessels were passing each other when they struck on their starboard sides and sustained significant damage. The Florence Spirit was driven up on the west bank while the Alanis ended up on the east bank.  Reports state no reports of injuries or pollution released on either vessel.

The Florence Spirit loaded with coal while the Alanis was loaded with a cargo of wind turbines. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Vessels on the Welland Canal typically pass on port not starboard.

 

PML2501

PML2501

PML2501
Photo: uscg

On June 10, the 302 foot long barge PML2501 ran aground on the St. Marys River near Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. The barge was being towed by the 132 foot long tugboat Anglian Lady bound for Burns Harbor, Indiana with 3622 tons of coal tar and 6000 gallons of diesel fuel when it struck bottom off Sweets Point. The barge sustained hull damage and suffered water ingress in a ballast tank. The Coast Guard was alerted and found there was no pollution being released from the PML2501. A safety zone was established around the barge while a salvage plan is being developed. No reports of injuries. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.

Albert and Margaret

Albert and Margaret

Albert
Photo: cbc.ca

On April 13, the 35 meter long, 478 dwt tugboat Albert and the tanker barge Margaret ran aground at the entrance to the Detroit River near Peche Island. The Albert was pushing the barge loaded with 3,990,000 gallons of diesel fuel bound for Green Bay when it struck a mud bank just within the borders of the United States. The United States Coast Guard was dispatched to the scene and found the barge and tug firmly stuck in the mud. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.

Both Canadian and United States authorities are monitoring the situation. Reports state there are multiple teams aiding in refloating the vessels. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.