Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve

Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve is a designated underwater preserve located in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is one of 13 such preserves in the state, established to protect and conserve shipwrecks and other underwater cultural resources.

Location

The Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve is situated in the northeastern part of Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes. It encompasses a total area of 376 square miles, extending from the shoreline to the international boundary with Canada.

Features

The preserve is known for its numerous shipwrecks, which are a major attraction for divers. These shipwrecks provide a unique glimpse into the maritime history of the Great Lakes region. Some of the most notable shipwrecks within the preserve include the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, the Vienna, and the SS Myron.

Whitefish Point Light Station

Within the preserve is the Whitefish Point Light Station, one of the oldest operating lighthouses on Lake Superior. The lighthouse has played a crucial role in guiding vessels through the treacherous waters of the lake, reducing the number of shipwrecks.

Conservation

The Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve is managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The department works to protect the shipwrecks and other underwater resources from damage and looting. It also promotes responsible diving practices to ensure the preservation of these historical resources for future generations.

See also

• List of Michigan state parks
• List of shipwrecks in the Great Lakes
• Underwater archaeology