Keweenaw Report Your Source for Local News and Sports
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service has released a modified plan for renovations of the Huron Island Lighthouse and surrounding structures. This comes after weighing four potential courses of action and receiving public input. Refuge Manager Sara Siekierski says the agency has opted for a Cultural Resources Management Plan that preserves the oldest buildings while removing those tied to US Coast Guard operations built in the 1970’s.
The Huron Islands are located northeast of the Abbaye Peninsula and Skanee. Siekierski says there are eight in total, but four are small enough that they have never been named. Lighthouse Island and McIntyre Island are the two most familiar to the public. The former features a steep rock wall that rises over 100 feet above Lake Superior and makes the perfect location for a lighthouse.
Siekierski says Fish and Wildlife staff visit the Huron Islands only once a year under normal conditions. They team with multiple organizations, including one with deep Copper Country roots to help fight off invasive species that are brought by visitors and for routine maintenance of the structures.
She warns that the islands are remote, with no electricity or basic services. Be prepared to have toilet paper and other amenities with you if you visit on a boat. Siekierski asks that anyone on the island pick up after themselves, and avoid leaving litter and debris.
The plan can be read in its entirety here.
