District Health Department #10 (DHD#10), along with the United States Coast Guard (USCG), State of Michigan, and additional local agencies are issuing an update on the response to the M/V Manitowoc diesel spill in Lake Michigan, near the city of Manistee, MI.
Results from a USCG flight confirm no visible sheen as of Friday, August 3, 2023. At this time, there is no known or expected impact on drinking water. While there have been no reported shoreline impacts, the USCG, as well as state and local agencies are continuing to monitor the situation.
“At this time, the swimming area at 5th Avenue Beach and North Beach access in Manistee are open for swimming and recreational use,” said DHD#10 Environmental Health Supervisor Matt Fournier. “However, we are continuing to ask residents inside and outside of city limits to exercise caution and report any confirmed sightings or contact with diesel fuel on the shoreline within Manistee County by calling (231) 723-6241.”
Diesel is a potentially hazardous material that can present significant health impacts with prolonged exposure. DHD#10 and local agencies are continuing their request that residents avoid areas that may have diesel contamination and to not attempt to rescue injured wildlife.