Tri-County Corridor Wreck

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Unidentified (VESSLTERMS UNKNOWN)
• Type: Submerged wreck
• Year Built:
• Builder:
• Dimensions:
• Registered Tonnage:
• Depth at Wreck Site: 0.91 m / 3 ft
• Location: Lake Superior
• Coordinates: LAT 46.598811, LON -90.877081

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The wreck, classified under VESSLTERMS UNKNOWN, is a submerged and unidentified object located in Lake Superior, identified as a hazard to surface navigation. Its precise nature remains unclear due to the lack of detailed documentation or identification features. It may be the remains of a small vessel, barge, or structural debris, given the shallow depth and high-risk location.

Description

The submerged wreck with VESSLTERMS UNKNOWN remains a significant navigational hazard in Lake Superior. Its precise identity is yet to be determined, and its shallow depth poses ongoing risks to surface navigation. While historical surveys have accurately located and documented the wreck, additional exploration and monitoring may be warranted to ensure maritime safety and potentially uncover the wreck’s origins.

History

1941 Survey: Marked as a dangerous wreck on Chart 14974, scaled at 1:15000 (NAD 1902). The wreck was initially identified during a revisory survey focused on navigation hazards in the area.

1984–1985 Surveys: Further hydrographic surveys utilized updated sonar and measurement techniques to refine the location and depth. Measurements confirmed the wreck’s coverage at a shallow depth, posing a serious hazard to navigation in the area. Recommended retention on navigational charts as a permanent feature due to its hazardous proximity to the surface.

Significant Incidents

• Navigational Hazard: The shallow depth (3 feet at LWD) places this wreck among the most hazardous submerged features in the region, posing a direct risk to boats operating near the surface.
• Retention on Charts: Hydrographers strongly recommended retaining the wreck on navigational charts due to its proximity to the surface and the high quality of its location data.

Final Disposition

The wreck remains submerged and unidentified, posing ongoing risks to navigation. Further surveys and potential marking of the site may be necessary to enhance safety.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Depth: Shallow, with the wreck protruding up to 3 feet (0.91 meters) below the water’s surface during low water conditions. This makes it a significant risk to surface navigation, especially for smaller vessels. Visibility is likely dependent on water clarity, and the wreck may be visible in favorable conditions. Minimal details on structural features are available, but the wreck is likely heavily deteriorated, given its extended submersion and exposure to Lake Superior’s harsh conditions.

Resources & Links

[shotline_reference_links slug=”tri-county-corridor-wreck” title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]

Mariners should exercise extreme caution when navigating near the wreck site, particularly during periods of low water. Avoid the area entirely if possible, as the wreck’s minimal depth makes it difficult to detect visually or by basic sonar systems.