The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has warned boaters to steer clear of 11 shipwrecks, including a WWII minesweeper, in the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary off the coast of Massachusetts.
The steamship Portland sank off the coast of Massachusetts in 1898. Portland lies upright on a mud bottom with its wooden hull nearly intact from the keel up to the main deck level. The vessel's entire superstructure is missing, with only the steam propulsion machinery protruding above deck level.
NOAA has called on fishermen to play a key role in preserving underwater historical treasures. To protect these maritime time capsules, NOAA has stressed the importance of avoiding fishing activities around known shipwreck sites
There are more than 200 wrecks in the sanctuary, according to NOAA, which specifically mentioned the World War II minesweeper USS Heroic, the trawler Josephine Marie and the 55ft North Star, along with eight unna
These wrecks, which include naval warships and merchant ships from various eras, are in danger of being lost to time and the tides without concerted conservation efforts. By asking fishermen to avoid these areas, NOAA aims to protect the wrecks as a testament to maritime history for future generations.
A heritage at risk
Among the most significant relics is the World War II minesweeper USS Heroic, which lies within the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. NOAA's latest appeal aims to prevent further damage to these sites, highlighting the role of the wrecks as artificial reefs and historic artefacts.
NOAA’s initiative includes working with fishermen to ensure that fishing gear does not compromise the integrity of these wreck sites. The agency has provided detailed information and coordinates to help fishermen avoid these critical areas.
