The AuSable River Queen, a treasured local icon, rests submerged in the AuSable River amid cleanup efforts.
The AuSable River Queen, a beloved paddlewheel riverboat, sank unexpectedly in Oscoda Township on March 11. Community members and officials express concern as the vessel’s future remains uncertain. Cleanup efforts are being organized as local authorities investigate the incident and assess environmental impacts. Plans for the boat’s potential salvage or repurposing spark hope among residents.
In a startling turn of events, the treasured AuSable River Queen, a paddlewheel riverboat that has delighted both locals and tourists for decades, sank in the AuSable River in Oscoda Township on the night of Tuesday, March 11. The incident happened around 9:30 p.m., catching everyone off guard, including its owners and the community that holds it dear.
The news broke early Wednesday morning, sending waves of concern throughout Oscoda. The boat has been an iconic part of the region’s charm since it first set sail in 1966, offering scenic tours that showcase the area’s beautiful waterways. Now, with its sunken hull, the future of the beloved vessel remains uncertain.
As the community reels from this incident, the situation has been described as perplexing. With no clear reasons as to how or why the riverboat sank, the owner, Laurie Rice Bell, is committed to a thorough investigation. To add to the distress, officials have declared the site off-limits while cleanup efforts are being carefully planned and executed.
As of March 14, the riverboat was confirmed to be resting half to two-thirds submerged. It has become a focal point for local authorities and environmental agencies, who are working tirelessly to initiate cleanup procedures. The first step involves conducting an environmental assessment followed by the careful removal of the vessel from the river.
A variety of local officials, including police and fire departments, alongside representatives from Consumers Energy and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), have united to oversee the cleanup operations. Their primary goal is to remove any hazardous materials that may have leaked from the boat, including engine oil, grease, and fuel.
The presence of ice on the river complicates the removal process. To protect the environment, absorbent booms have already been deployed in the water while efforts to engage a cleanup company are underway. The hope is to minimize any potential long-term damage to this vital ecosystem.
The AuSable River Queen is not just any boat; it’s a cherished part of local history and culture. Measuring 65 feet long and 24 feet wide, this vessel, inspired by classic Mississippi paddleboats, has been modified over the years to enhance its visitors’ experience. Sadly, the emotional turbulence surrounding the sinking has been significant for both the owner and the community at large.
Previously, Laurie Rice Bell had outlined plans to inspect the boat’s hull in the spring, a job projected to cost over $15,000. In an effort to raise funds for this, a GoFundMe campaign was started, raising approximately $9,372 with contributions from 61 donors. This outpouring of community support reflects just how important the riverboat is to those near and far.
As discussions continue regarding the future of the AuSable River Queen, there are talks of potential salvaging and even repurposing the vessel. Ideas have floated about converting it into a unique restaurant, fostering a new beginning for this beloved icon. Amidst the uncertainty and concern, hope springs eternal as everyone awaits answers and considers the possibilities.
Residents and visitors alike have expressed deep sadness over the recent events. The AuSable River Queen has always been more than a boat; it has been a symbol of leisure and recreation, bringing joyful memories to countless visitors over the years. As cleanup efforts proceed, the community rallies together, cherishing the memories while looking to a hopeful future.
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