SHIPWRECK REPORT: LS1775/40 (Unidentified Barge)

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• Name: LS1775/40

• Type: Likely a sunken Barge

• Location: Lake Ontario

• Coordinates:

• Charted Position: LAT 43° 02′ 57″ N, LONG 79° 00′ 07″ W

• Hydrographic Survey Position: LAT 43° 02′ 57.1″ N, LONG 79° 00′ 06.5″ W

• Depth:

• Charted Depth: 5 feet over the wreck

• Hydrographic Survey (H9889/80): Least depth recorded as 6 feet, though pole soundings indicated slightly deeper depths.

• Surrounding Conditions:

• The wreck is embedded in soft mud with hard spots, believed to be wooden beams.

WRECK DESCRIPTION

• Type: Submerged wreck, likely a Barge based on hydrographic survey observations.

• Structure:

• Wooden beams detected beneath the mud layer.

• Soft mud filling much of the surrounding area.

• Visibility: Not visible to the naked eye during surveys but clearly detected on the fathogram.

HISTORY AND SURVEY INFORMATION

Charting and Surveys:

• The wreck was originally identified and charted with the designation “LS1775/40.”

• A 1980 Hydrographic Survey (H9889/80) confirmed the presence of the wreck through fathometer readings and pole soundings.

• Despite slight variations in depth findings, the charted depth of 5 feet over the wreck was not disproven.

Recommendations:

• The Marine Safety Manual (MSM) in September 1988 retained the wreck on nautical charts, with the note: “DEPTH OVER WRECK 5 FT.”

• This designation ensures that mariners are alerted to the hazard.

CURRENT CONDITION

• Visibility: The wreck is not visible at the surface but can be detected using sonar or other hydrographic survey tools.

• Access: The shallow depth (5–6 feet) makes this site hazardous for navigation, especially for smaller vessels operating near the wreck.

• Condition: Likely a wooden Barge that has become embedded in soft mud over time.

SIGNIFICANCE

The wreck’s shallow depth makes it a navigational hazard, and its charted presence underscores the importance of hydrographic surveys in maintaining maritime safety. Although its identity is uncertain, its structural characteristics suggest it may have been a Barge used in nearby trade or industrial activities.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MARINERS

• Navigation: Exercise caution when operating near the wreck’s charted location, particularly in shallow-Draft vessels.

• Dive Considerations: Due to the soft mud and shallow depth, this site is not suitable for recreational diving.

REFERENCES

• Marine Safety Manual (MSM), September 1988

• Hydrographic Survey H9889/80

CONCLUSION

The wreck identified as LS1775/40 remains an intriguing feature of Lake Ontario’s underwater landscape. While its shallow depth poses a navigational challenge, its preservation on nautical charts ensures ongoing awareness and maritime safety in the region.

KEYWORDS

#Shipwreck #LS1775/40 #LakeOntario #HydrographicSurvey #MaritimeSafety #NavigationalHazard