On March 28, the 189 meter long, 15787 dwt self-unloader bulk carrier Mississagi sustained damage in Whitefish Bay, Lake Superior. The Mississagi was proceeding towards the Soo Locks when it struck ice and tore a hole in the vessel’s bow. The crew was able to make temporary a patch and the vessel continued on its voyage to Monroe for repairs. No reports of injuries or pollution released. The Mississagi was en route in ballast to Toledo for a cargo of coal.
On April 1, the 40 foot long, 11 gt fishing vessel Dawn sank on Lake Superior at the Portage River Harbor near Houghton, Michigan. The vessel commonly known as a “fishing tug” had sank for some unknown reason. No reports of injuries.
The Coast Guard and a salvage team took over salvage operations. Divers were able to place a sling around the sunken hull to raised the Dawn on April 18. Reports state the vessel was found to be in poor shape and may not be repaired. The Dawn was placed on a barge to be taken to Hancock to be further inspected.
The 138 meter long, 12700 dwt cargo vessel BBC Maple Lea ran aground on Lake Saint-Louis near Île Saint-Nicolas, Quebec. The BBC Maple Lea sustained damage to its bow thruster releasing some oil into the water. No reports of injuries. Tugs were dispatched to the scene and the cargo vessel was freed the following day. Reports state the BBC Maple Lea was loaded with a cargo of scrap.