SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. — The Coast Guard began ice-breaking operations Monday across key Great Lakes waterways to clear shipping channels ahead of the 2026 commercial navigation season.
Coast Guard Sector Northern Great Lakes launched the operations in Duluth, Minnesota, and on the St. Marys River, targeting areas critical for vessel traffic when the shipping season begins.
The initial phase focuses on Duluth Harbor, the waters south of Munuscong Lake and the Middle Neebish Channel located north and east of Neebish Island. These areas serve as primary routes for commercial vessels entering and exiting the Great Lakes system.
Operations will expand throughout the week as ice conditions allow. The Coast Guard plans to extend activities into the southern portion of the West Neebish Channel, then progress northward from the Mud Lake Junction Light to Moon Island.
However, the Coast Guard will avoid disturbing ice in two specific areas to maintain safety for local ferry operations. Ice south of West Neebish Channel Light 45, above the ferry crossing, and ice north of Moon Island below the ferry crossing will remain untouched.
The strategic ice-breaking effort builds toward the scheduled March 25 opening of the Soo Locks, the critical gateway connecting Lake Superior to the lower Great Lakes. The locks handle millions of tons of cargo annually, including iron ore, coal and grain shipments that support regional and national commerce.
Once the locks open, Coast Guard ice-breaking activities will expand to cover all navigable waters on the St. Marys River, the Straits of Mackinac and Green Bay. This comprehensive approach ensures commercial vessels can safely navigate the interconnected waterway system.
The Coast Guard issued safety recommendations for recreational users during the ice-breaking period. Officials urge people to plan activities carefully, exercise caution near ice formations and avoid charted navigation areas where ice-breaking operations occur.
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