Identification & Site Information

Vessel Name: Unknown (VESSLTERMS UNKNOWN)

Type: Submerged Wreck (Nature and identity of the vessel are unspecified)

Location:

•Coordinates: LATDEC 46.598811 / LONDEC -90.877081

•General Area: Approximate location near Chart 14974 (NAD 1902), Lake Superior.

•Depth: 3 feet (0.91 meters) at Lowest Water Depth (LWD)

Survey History:

•1941 Survey: Conducted as a revisory effort, initially identifying the wreck as a hazard to navigation.

•1984 Survey: Located at LAT 46-35-55.94N, LONG 90-52-36.82W, with a coverage of 5.1 feet.

•1985 Survey: Updated the depth to 3 feet at LWD for improved accuracy.

•GP Quality: High, indicating the wreck’s position is precisely known.

Description and Significance

This submerged wreck remains unidentified but has been classified as a significant hazard to surface navigation due to its shallow depth of 3 feet. It poses a particular danger for recreational and commercial vessels navigating the area, especially during periods of low water levels.

The wreck’s historical documentation highlights its enduring risk:

•1941 Survey: Scaled to 1:15,000 on Chart 14974 (NAD 1902) to provide mariners with updated hazard locations.

•1984–1985 Surveys: Confirmed its position and refined its depth measurements, ensuring ongoing accuracy for navigation charts.

The wreck is located near the western portion of Lake Superior, an area known for shallow hazards and complex underwater terrain.

Current Condition & Recommendations

•Preservation: The wreck remains charted and is highlighted on navigation aids to prevent accidents.

•Navigation Advice:

•Mariners should avoid this location or navigate with extreme caution.

•Charts updated with this wreck information should be utilized when sailing near the specified coordinates.

•Status: Retained as charted due to its hazardous nature.

Further Exploration

•Potential Historical Value: The wreck could be investigated further to determine its identity and historical context, potentially adding to Lake Superior’s rich maritime history.

•Recommended Surveys: Modern sonar and diving surveys could provide additional clarity on the wreck’s structure, identity, and historical significance.

Resources

•National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): Provides historical and updated navigation charts.

•Great Lakes Shipwreck Research Database: Potential source for identifying the wreck’s origin and historical context.

•Local Hydrographic Offices: May hold additional survey data or records pertaining to the 1941, 1984, and 1985 surveys.

Keywords: VESSLTERMS UNKNOWN, Submerged Wreck, Lake Superior, Dangerous Navigation Hazard, Hydrographic Surveys, Chart 14974, Unidentified Wreck, Great Lakes Maritime Hazards.