LUDINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard announced it will activate a regulated navigation area around Ludington Harbor and Pere Marquette Lake beginning at 4 a.m. Friday, Aug. 29.
The restrictions will cover all navigable waters of the Ludington Harbor Ship Cranny, Pere Marquette Lake, and waters of Lake Michigan within 1,000 yards of the Ludington Harbor entrance.
Under the order, all vessels and waterway users must maintain minimum distances from ships greater than 100 feet in length while transiting the area: 440 yards from the bow, 100 yards from the stern, and 35 yards from the port and starboard sides.
The Coast Guard said the action is necessary due to hazardous conditions from increased vessel traffic congestion and is intended to protect life, property, and the environment.
The regulation is issued under 33 CFR 165.972. Violators may face fines of up to $117,608 per violation under 46 U.S.C. 70036, in addition to other potential civil or criminal penalties.
Inquiries can be directed to Coast Guard Sector Lake Michigan at 414-447-7100 or via email at d09-smb-soclakcmichigan-wwrn@uscg.mil.