MICHIGAN CITY

• USMGC
• Latitude: 41.726
• Longitude: -86.909
• Great Lakes
• Port in US

Location: US

Michigan City is a port city located on the southeastern shore of Lake Michigan in the U.S. state of Indiana, not Michigan as the name might imply. Here's a detailed description and specifications of the Michigan City port:

General Overview

• Location: Michigan City, Indiana
• Coordinates: Approximately 41°42′50″N 86°54′35″W
• Water Body: Lake Michigan, part of the Great Lakes system
• Nearby Major Cities: Chicago (about 50 miles to the west), South Bend (about 40 miles to the south)
• Access: The port is easily accessible by road, rail, and water.

Harbor and Facilities

Harbor:

• Michigan City Harbor: The port itself encompasses the Michigan City Harbor, which includes an outer harbor protected by breakwaters and an inner basin used for commercial and recreational boating.
• Indiana Dunes National Park: Located nearby, this provides a picturesque backdrop and also affects some environmental considerations for the port.

Facilities:

• Docks/Piers: The harbor has several docks and piers designated for commercial traffic, recreational boating, and fishing.
• Marina: The Michigan City Port Authority operates a large marina, which is one of the focal points of recreational boating on Lake Michigan.
• Freight Facilities: Limited, as the port is primarily geared toward recreational rather than heavy commercial use.
• Passenger Services: Includes seasonal tourist and fishing charters, as well as some limited ferry services.

Navigation

• Depth:
  • Outer Harbor: Generally around 20 feet deep.
  • Inner Harbor: Varies but typically around 10-12 feet deep.
• Navigational Aids: The harbor is equipped with various navigational aids including buoys, lights, and markers to guide vessels safely into port.

Services Offered

• Marine Services: Includes boat repair, fueling, and other marine services.
• Storage: Dry and wet storage options for boats.
• Port of Entry: Functions as a port of entry with customs and border protection facilities for international vessels.

Transportation Links

• Road: Easily accessible via major highways including Interstate 94 and U.S. Route 12.
• Rail: There are rail connections provided by several freight and passenger rail services.
• Air: The nearest major airport is Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, with regional services available at South Bend International Airport.

Economic and Recreational Importance

• Recreation: The harbor is a major hub for recreational boating, fishing, and water sports.
• Tourism: Close to the Indiana Dunes National Park, it attracts tourists for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
• Economic Activities: While not a major commercial freight port, it supports local businesses and the economy through tourism, recreational services, and small-scale commercial fishing.

Environmental Considerations

• Water Quality: Efforts are made to maintain high water quality standards given its proximity to Indiana Dunes National Park.
• Wildlife Protection: Measures to protect local wildlife habitats, especially given the migratory bird routes that pass through the region.

In conclusion, Michigan City Harbor serves as an important recreational and minor commercial port on Lake Michigan, providing various services to the boating community, supporting local tourism, and contributing to the regional economy. Its facilities are primarily oriented towards recreational use rather than heavy commercial traffic.