Lake Erie Security Zones: Boat Traffic Prohibited around Davis Besse and Perry Power Plants
The U.S. Coast Guard established security zones around the Davis-Besse Power Station in Oak Harbor and the Perry Power Station in Perry on the shore of Lake Erie (more detailed maps are below). Entry into, transit through, or anchoring in a security zone is prohibited. These zones are permanent as of June 2002.
Within the zone, the Captain of the Port (Toledo or Cleveland) may control the access and movement of all vessels, persons, and vehicles (including their removal) and may take control and possession of any vessel. Violations of the zone are subject to criminal penalties.
If you don't realize you are in the security zone (they are not marked with buoys) you'll most likely be asked to leave the area by the U.S. Coast Guard, power plant security personnel, or state or local law enforcement officials. If you refuse to exit the Security Zone, a U.S. Coast Guard boarding team will board your vessel and you could be subjected to severe penalties. (Violation of a U.S. Coast Guard Security Zone is a criminal violation which may carry fines up to $10,000 and/or up to 10 years imprisonment.)
Davis Besse Security Zone Description/Map
The Davis Besse zone has been adjusted to allow private citizens lake access at their beachfront homes. The USCG Marine Safety Office in Toledo held public meetings and does have a brochure available on the Davis Besse Security Zone. Call them for more information.
The Davis-Besse Security Zone specifically encompasses the portion of Lake Erie from 41°36.3'N, 083°04.9'W, north to 41°37.0'N, 083°03.9'W, east to 41°35.9'N, 083°02.5'W, southwest to 41° 35.4'N, 083°03.7'W, back to the starting point 41°36.3'N, 083°04.9'W. Sandy Beach and Toussaint River are outside of the security zone.
Perry Security Zone Description/Map
The Perry Security Zone consists of all navigable waters of Lake Erie bound by a line beginning at a point 41°48'6"N, 081°09'6"W; north to 41°48'36"N, 081°09'6"W; east to 41°49'0"N, 081°07'54"W; south to the shore of Lake Erie at 41°48'36"N, 081°07'54"W; and westerly along the shore back to the beginning.
Contact the USCG Marine Safety Office in Cleveland for information on the Perry Security Zone.
|