South Manitou Island Boat Dock Extension Environmental Assessment

The National Park Service (NPS) at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) has prepared an Environmental Assessment (EA) that provides alternatives for addressing an extension of the South Manitou Island (SMI) boat dock that would result in meeting the desired future conditions for access to SMI. The SMI boat dock lies in shallow water in an area subject to sediment accumulation. Eventually, this buildup of sediment forms a sandbar beneath the boat dock that extends out into open water, blocking access to the dock.

The SMI boat dock, located on the southeast shore of SMI bay, is the only manageable access point to the island for public visitors and NPS staff. From the dock, visitors have a short walk to the lighthouse built in 1871, a U.S. Life-Saving Service and Coast Guard Station that now serves as a ranger station, and several historically preserved 19th century farm buildings. The island's many trails begin from the dock landing and allow visitors a scenic hike to the high perched dunes overlooking the island's western shore, a natural inland lake (Florence Lake), three designated backcountry campgrounds, and numerous other natural features.

We would like your opinion on the best way to provide boat dock access to South Manitou Island. The National Lakeshore encourages you to comment on the EA until the public comment period closes on November 4, 2011.

Document Content:

South Manitou Island Boat Dock Extension EA - page 1 through figures   (1.9 MB, PDF file) South Manitou Island Boat Dock Extension EA - appendices   (3.2 MB, PDF file) Disclaimer: Links within the above document(s) were valid as of the date published. Note: Some of the files may be in PDF format and can be viewed using the Adobe Acrobat Reader software. You may download a free copy of from Adobe Systems.