South Manitou Island Dock Extension

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore » South Manitou Island Dock Extension » Document List

The National Park Service (NPS) at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) has released for public review and comment a revised 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.

This EA was initially released for public review and comment in November 2011. The revised EA does not analyze additional impact topics or additional alternatives in depth, but it does clarify some information from the initial EA and briefly describes alternatives considered but dismissed early in the planning process.

The Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was signed by the Director of the Midwest Region, August 2, 2012.



Contact Information

Lee Jameson, (231) 326-5134