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 May 27, the 858 foot long self-unloader bulk carrier Roger Blough ran aground on Lake Superior in Whitefish Bay near Gros Cap Reefs. The Roger Blough had departed from Duluth loaded with iron ore bound for Conneaut, Ohio. The vessel was in fog when it attempted to pass another vessel when it ran aground. The bulk carrier suffered damage in two of the forward ballast tanks. No reports of injuries or pollution released. Authorities placed booms around the stern of the vessel to contain any potential pollution releases. The ore carriers Arthur M. Anderson and Philip R. Clarke were dispatched to the scene to lighter the Roger Blough before it will be refloated. Reports state after the vessel is refloated, the Roger Blough will proceed to drydock for repairs at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.
