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IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• CRD: 2359

• Vessel Terms: Unknown

• Feature Type: Submerged wreck, dangerous to surface navigation

• Coordinates:

• Initial: Latitude 46.491472N, Longitude -84.3125W

• Verified Position: Latitude 46-29-29.23N, Longitude 84-18-44.87W

• Depth/Visibility:

• Initially submerged, later reclassified as visible.

• Exposed 4.2 feet at Lowest Water Depth (LWD).

• Dimensions:

• Wreck projection: Approximately 10 meters in length.

• Debris area: Approximately 100 x 30 feet in an east-west direction.

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The wreck has been verified as the remains of a Barge, constructed with 8×12 inch timbers lying in a northwest-southeast direction, with cross timbers at right angles. Iron rods and other metal debris are present, indicating a structure built for durability. The wreck’s elongated shape and construction materials suggest its purpose was likely for transportation of goods or heavy cargo typical of Barge operations in the Great Lakes region.

HISTORY

Initial Classification:

• The wreck was first identified and marked as a submerged wreck, scaled at 1:10,000 on charts at latitude 46-29-29.4N, longitude 84-18-44.5W.

Reclassification and Verification:

• Subsequent surveys revealed it as a visible wreck, exposing 0.6 feet at LWD.

• It was later confirmed as a Barge ruin, and the wreck was exposed 4.2 feet at LWD, with debris scattered over a 100×30 foot area.

Current State:

• The Barge’s remnants are now exposed above the waterline at LWD, making it a navigational hazard. Its visible state underscores the need for monitoring and potential chart updates to ensure safety in the area.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The wreck lies approximately 50 meters inshore and 10 meters offshore from its mapped position in Lake Superior. The exposure and debris spread emphasize the need for precise documentation to guide navigational activities.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

• The wreck is classified as dangerous to surface navigation due to its shallow depth and visible state at low water levels.

• Mariners should exercise caution when navigating near this location, particularly during periods of low water levels.

• Action: Chart updates and Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are advised to highlight the wreck’s position and characteristics.

LOCATED BY & DATE

• Initial Identification: Classified at latitude 46-29-29.4N and longitude 84-18-44.5W.

• Verified: Updated location at latitude 46-29-29.23N and longitude 84-18-44.87W.

SURVEY REQUIREMENTS

The wreck requires full survey efforts to confirm its current state, monitor its position, and evaluate potential risks to navigation. No further actions have been officially assigned at this time.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

• Condition:

• Remains consist of timbers, iron rods, and metal debris, indicating advanced deterioration.

• Structural integrity is low, with scattered debris over a large area.

• Accessibility:

• The wreck is located in shallow water and visible at LWD, making it accessible for surveys or divers with appropriate permissions.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes Database: Explore Shipwrecks

• NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries: NOAA Marine Resources

• Canadian Hydrographic Service: For chart updates and hazard monitoring.

CONCLUSION

The CRD 2359 wreck highlights the dynamic nature of submerged hazards in the Great Lakes. Initially classified as submerged, the wreck’s gradual exposure underscores the importance of continued monitoring and updates to nautical charts. Its historical significance as a Barge ruin and potential hazard to surface navigation make it a critical point of interest for maritime safety and heritage preservation.

KEYWORDS

• CRD 2359

• Submerged wreck

• Lake Superior

• Dangerous navigation hazard

• Barge ruin

• Visible wreck

• Great Lakes maritime history

CALL TO ACTION

Authorities and survey teams are encouraged to conduct detailed surveys to monitor the wreck’s condition, update its position, and provide relevant information to mariners through updated charts and Notices to Mariners. Local dive teams or researchers could also investigate the site to uncover potential historical significance.