Coast Guard Eyes Speed Limits in Crowded Ludington Harbor Boat Channel
Published Date: 4/22/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard wants to create special rules for boats in Ludington Harbor Channel and Pere Marquette Lake, Michigan, to keep everyone safe because boat traffic has gotten crowded and risky. This affects all boaters in the area, especially during busy fishing seasons. They’re asking for your thoughts by June 23, 2025, and these changes aim to prevent accidents without adding extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Penalties and Reporting for Violations
If you violate the regulated navigation area rules when enforced, you may face civil and/or criminal penalties under 46 U.S.C. 70036. Violations should be reported to the Captain of the Port Sector Lake Michigan at (414) 747-7182 or on VHF Channel 16, and Federal, State, or local entities operating in an official capacity are excepted from the distance requirements.
New Distance Rules for Boats Near Large Vessels
When hazardous vessel congestion exists, you must stay 440 yards ahead (from the bow), 100 yards behind (from the stern), and 35 yards off the port and starboard sides of any vessel more than 100 feet long transiting into or out of Ludington Harbor. These distance rules apply within all navigable waters of Ludington Harbor Channel and Pere Marquette Lake and Lake Michigan waters within 1,000 yards of the Ludington harbor entrance.
Restrictions Only Active During Congestion
The regulated navigation area and its distance restrictions are enforced only when the Captain of the Port determines hazardous vessel congestion exists. The Captain of the Port will notify the public before enforcement via Broadcast Notice to Mariners and other public notice and will coordinate with the Ludington harbormaster.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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