News Summary
The beloved AuSable River Queen paddleboat sank at Footsite Park in Michigan, sparking recovery efforts that are currently stalled due to challenging conditions. As agencies collaborate to salvage this historical landmark, locals anxiously await news of its fate. Despite an urgent plan involving airbags to lift the boat, uncertainties persist about the recovery timeline and extent of damages. The community hopes for a breakthrough to restore this iconic attraction for future generations.
Efforts Stalled to Recover the Sunken AuSable River Queen Riverboat
In the small, picturesque town of Iosco County, Michigan, a beloved piece of local history has found itself in quite a predicament. The AuSable River Queen, a charming paddlewheel riverboat that has been delighting visitors with scenic tours since 1966, sank in the AuSable River at Footsite Park on March 11, 2025. This unfortunate incident has sparked a flurry of activity among local officials and concerned citizens as recovery efforts have run into some serious roadblocks.
A Recreational Gem in Trouble
Footsite Park, conveniently located about a 90-minute drive north from Bay City, has been a serene getaway for many. However, the park has been closed as recovery crews engage in a mission to retrieve the iconic riverboat, which is believed to be stuck in mud and could potentially disintegrate if significant efforts aren’t made soon. Witness accounts note that the vessel appeared stable at around 8:30 PM on the night it sank; however, just an hour later, it was evident that disaster was unfolding as the boat began to take on water.
Currently, agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), and Consumers Energy are collaborating to strategize the best means for recovery. Yet, all efforts to pump water out of the vessel and stabilize it have come to an abrupt halt. The owner of the riverboat, Laurie Rice Bell, has indicated that the extent of the damages is unclear until the paddlewheel can be safely lifted out of the water for a thorough inspection.
The Challenge Ahead
As crews remain on-site searching for viable solutions, the chances of a swift removal seem dim. The township supervisor has even ordered for the riverboat’s immediate removal from Foote Site Park, though how that will happen has not yet been determined, especially considering that the boat is currently trapped beneath the ice. For now, environmental teams continue to keep a close watch, hoping for a breakthrough in the recovery efforts.
The AuSable River Queen is not just any boat; it is a historical landmark in the area and a significant tourist attraction. It went the entire 2024 season without operating, which raises concerns about its future. In June 2024, efforts to rally financial support through a GoFundMe campaign aimed at fixing the riverboat generated community interest but have yet to yield the necessary funds for extensive repairs and restoration.
Plans in the Works
There was a plan on the table that involved using airbags to elevate the boat to where it could be ferried to shore. This method would allow for a proper evaluation of its condition, which is crucial in determining the next steps forward. However, the execution of this plan has been put on hold, leaving everyone involved in a state of uncertainty as they shimmer in the cold Michigan air.
With the situation evolving, it’s important for locals to stay informed about the plans and procedures for the recovery of the AuSable River Queen. The riverboat has become an integral part of Iosco County’s charm, and everyone is eagerly awaiting the day it can once again grace the tranquil waters of the AuSable River.
Until further progress is made, Iosco County residents and visitors will have to be patient while they wait for their beloved riverboat to be salvaged from its icy plight. The hope is that with collaborative efforts, innovative solutions, and a dash of good fortune, the AuSable River Queen can be restored to its former glory for future generations to enjoy.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- MLive: AuSable River Queen Back on Dry Land
- Wikipedia: AuSable River
- Free Press: Oscoda’s Historic Riverboat Sinks
- Google Search: AuSable River Queen
- WLNS: AuSable River Paddle Boat Sinks
- Encyclopedia Britannica: AuSable River
- UpNorthLive: Efforts to Remove AuSable River Queen Stall
- Google News: AuSable River Queen
