A closure of local waterways has been extended as high water and hazardous conditions remain throughout the region.
According to a May 8 update from the Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Office, the Cheboygan River south of the dam, the Black River and the Indian River are closed to all boat traffic.
The order by the Coast Guard Sector Northern Great Lakes was initially set to expire on May 8, and has now been extended through May 15.
A no wake law is also in effect on Black Lake, Burt Lake and Mullett Lake.
Local officials warned that hazardous conditions, such as submerged docks, are still a concern in flooded areas.
“This is to enhance safety and increase the likelihood of spotting floating debris as well as protect the shoreline from additional washout. The lakes remain open; however, all boaters and anglers are urged to use extreme caution due to floating debris and rapidly changing conditions,” the update reads. “These closures remain in place to protect lives, property and infrastructure. We appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation as conditions continue to be monitored.”
Meanwhile, water levels at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex continue to improve.
On Monday, May 11, water was 21.12 inches below the top of the structure.
In a May 8 update, Michigan DNR officials said residents should continue to follow all posted closures and safety advisories as recovery efforts remain ongoing.
“Until the gates and safety chain at the dam can be put back in place, this is a very dangerous area to be in,” said Rich Hill, co-leader of the DNR Incident Management Team, in the update. “The lakes are still very high, and there are docks and other debris submerged, creating hazardous boating conditions.”
The DNR plans to begin demobilizing high-volume pumps at the site this week. They will only be moved when officials are assured that the spillway can keep up with the water flow.
“Our focus remains on protecting public safety and property for those upstream and downstream of the dam,” said Hill. “Thanks to a lot of effort by local, state, federal and private partners, things continue to move in a positive direction.”
This article originally appeared on Cheboygan Daily Tribune: Cheboygan County waterway closures extended until May 15
Reporting by Jillian Fellows, Cheboygan Daily Tribune / Cheboygan Daily Tribune
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