ONTONAGON

• Latitude: 46.8745
•
• Longitude: -89.3265
•
• Great Lakes
•
• Port in US

Address: Ontonagon MI 49953 US

Phone number: +1-906-884-4822

Web-site: http://www.villageofontonagon.org/port-authority/

Ontonagon Marine Port - Overview

Ontonagon Marine Port is a small but vital harbor located on the southern shore of Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, United States. This port plays a crucial role in the local economy, primarily serving the logging industry, tourism, and some commercial shipping activities.

Specifications and Features

Location:

• Latitude: Approximately 46.8719 N
• Longitude: Approximately 89.3140 W
• Address: Ontonagon, MI 49953, USA

Access and Navigation:

• Waterway: Lake Superior
• Approach Channel: The port has a navigable channel with aids to navigation including buoys and markers. The approach is relatively straightforward but requires careful navigation due to weather conditions that can prevail on Lake Superior.
• Depth: The harbor has dredged depths varying between 14 to 18 feet (4 to 5.5 meters).
• Breakwater: There is a west and an east breakwater that protects the harbor from severe weather conditions coming from Lake Superior.

Facilities:

• Docks and Piers: Ontonagon Harbor features several docks and piers, mainly used for commercial shipping, fishing boats, and recreational purposes.
• Cargo Handling: While not a large commercial port, Ontonagon can handle smaller cargo vessels, and there are facilities for loading and unloading timber and other local commodities.
• Warehousing: Limited warehousing facilities are available for short-term storage.
• Marina: The port also includes a public marina facility that supports recreational boating, with amenities such as boat slips, fuel, and maintenance services.
• Coast Guard Station: There is a U.S. Coast Guard station near the harbor entrance, contributing to the safety and security of the port and its navigational routes.

Services:

• Pilotage: Not typically required for smaller vessels, but larger vessels may need to secure pilotage services, which can be coordinated through the Great Lakes Pilotage Authority.
• Fuel and Supplies: Basic refueling and supplies are available at the port for vessels.
• Repair and Maintenance: Some facilities for minor repairs and regular boat maintenance are present.
• Local Transportation: Access to major roads connecting to the region is relatively straightforward, facilitating terrestrial logistics.

Environmental Considerations:

• Ice conditions: The port is subject to freezing during winter, which can affect operations. Seasonal navigation and ice-breaking services might be necessary during the colder months.
• Environmental Regulations: Operations are subject to federal and state environmental regulations, including protection of water quality and wildlife conservation efforts typical to the Great Lakes region.

Economic Importance:

• Industry Support: The port is significant to the local logging and timber industry, serving as an export point for timber products.
• Tourism: The marina and beautiful natural surroundings attract tourists, contributing to the local economy.
• Fishing Industry: Supports both commercial and recreational fishing activities essential to the region.

Conclusion

While Ontonagon Marine Port is not among the larger or busier ports in the United States, it holds substantial importance for the local community by supporting various industries, facilitating commerce, and promoting tourism. Its position on Lake Superior makes it a critical point for regional maritime activities.