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Emergency Order Formally Bans Dropping Anchor In Straits Of Mackinac

Governor Rick Snyder has approved six-month ban on ships dropping anchor in the Straits of Mackinac. As we hear from Capital Bureau Chief Rick Pluta, it’s a response to a mishap in April that caused a mineral oil spill and damage to Enbridge Line 5.

There are advisories that say ships shouldn’t drop anchor in the straits, where there’s a risk posed by the Enbridge fuel line and other infrastructure. But it’s not a regulation. In April, a ship dragged an anchor across the bottom of the straits and ruptured a utility line and dented Line 5.

Snyder Communications Director Ari Adler says the state is trying to get a federal rule adopted by the Coast Guard.

“That is taking a little longer than Governor Snyder would like, and, so, in the meantime, he has issued an emergency rule that will help put that prohibition in place.”

Adler says the rule can be renewed for another six months, if necessary. Environmental groups say the temporary rule is an improvement, but also shows why the best move would be to shut down Line 5.

Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
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