July 21, 2017

Contact: Chuck Allen, 989-362-5041

East Tawas State Harbor adds 54 new slips, upgrades electrical system

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources today announced that 54 new transient slips have opened at the East Tawas State Harbor in Iosco County. This is the first phase of a complete harbor reconstruction. 

Enhancements include a greater variety of slip sizes, features that are compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines, and improvements to the pump-out system. In addition, due to the new pier’s proximity to shore, connection to the downtown area -- which is popular with boaters -- has been improved.

New electric pedestals are equipped with sensors that can detect stray electrical current leakage in the water from vessels, to help prevent electric shock drowning (ESD), which is the result of someone coming into contact with electrical currents in the water

As a result of these improvements, if a boat is leaking current, the system is designed to trip the breaker, ultimately stopping the leak into the surrounding water. Boaters are encouraged to have their electrical systems routinely inspected and evaluated by an electrician knowledgeable in boating electrical systems to avoid any potential safety issues.

"The expansion better connects visitors to modern amenities, safety features and the local community, and responds to current trends in Great Lakes boating," said Chuck Allen, supervisor for East Tawas State Harbor. "We are excited for boaters to come and experience the changes for themselves."

To learn more about boating in Michigan and what you can do to prevent ESD, visit michigan.gov/boating. 

This project is funded through the Michigan State Waterways Fund. The restricted fund, which is derived from boat registration fees and the Michigan marine fuel tax, helps fund construction, operation and maintenance of public recreational boating facilities. Three federal grants also contributed to funding.

For questions regarding the harbor, contact unit supervisor Chuck Allen at 989-362-5041 or allenC9@michigan.gov. Contact Jordan Byelich, waterways development program manager, at 517-284-6087 or byelichj@michigan.gov with questions regarding ESD.

/Editor's note: An accompanying photo is available below for download. A suggested caption follows.

East Tawas State Harbor has expanded to include 54 new transient slips as part of a multiphase reconstruction project./

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.