GRAND HAVEN, Mich. — The U.S. Coast Guard cautioned boaters that the river systems in Western Michigan's coastal communities, including the Pere Marquette, White, Grand, Macatawa, and Kalamazoo Rivers, are hazardous to recreational boaters due to high water levels and flooding.
Debris in the river system can pose a serious safety hazard by obstructing channels, diverting river currents and causing serious damage to vessels. The high water levels have the capability to move navigational aids off station and distort the familiar contours of the river system.
“Swollen rivers and flooded communities can result in turbulent waters and floating debris,” said Cmdr. Sean Brady, Commanding Officer of Sector Field Officer Grand Haven. “We have observed a variety of floating debris in the river systems, from plastic tubs to entire trees.”
Anyone who sees a hazard to navigation on a navigable waterway is asked to call the Coast Guard Sector Lake Michigan Command Center at 414-747-7182.
For more information contact Cmdr. Sean Brady, commanding officer of Sector Field Office Grand Haven, Mich. at (616) 502-2468.