Resource Protection

Thunder Bay’s shipwrecks are magnificent, yet vulnerable.  Natural and human impacts threaten the long-term sustainability of our underwater maritime heritage. Through research, education and resource protection, the sanctuary works to protect our nation’s historic shipwrecks.  Initiatives such as the sanctuary’s Mooring Buoy Program [links to moorings page] help preserve these unique recreational, archeological and historical sites for future generations.

State and federal laws also protect sanctuary resources. The sanctuary partners with the U.S. Coast Guard and Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment to enforce these laws. Equally important, the sanctuary relies on the responsible practices of visiting divers. Enjoy diving the shipwrecks of Thunder Bay, but always respect the past.  Removing or disturbing artifacts is illegal. Please do your part and report suspected looting or damage. 

Learn more about sanctuary regulations and resource protection.