Protecting cultural resources in the Straits

Marine archaeological surveys conducted

Aug. 24, 2022

In and beyond Michigan, many view the Straits of Mackinac as special, and for the Anishinaabe people, the Straits hold spiritual significance.

That’s part of the reason why Tribal representatives were on hand to observe the marine archaeological surveys Enbridge conducted in June in the Straits.

Archaeologists on a surface vessel used a variety of specialized equipment to survey sections of the lake bottom. Consultants 7th Legacy LLC established onshore, direct-feed TV monitors so Tribal members could see the survey work in real time. The archaeologists will analyze the data to determine if cultural or historic resources are present within the survey area.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will receive the survey results, which will assist the USACE in its review of Enbridge’s permit application for the Line 5 Great Lakes Tunnel Project.