Port and vessel activity for Thursday February 19.  Port reports done by Tom Geiger unless otherwise noted. Please send future port reports and pictures to news@boatnerd.net
You can Now visit Matt Miner’s Saltie page at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/foreign-vessels-on-the-lakes-2024
The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at;  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026/

PORT REPORT 2/20/2026

BECANCOUR, CANADA                             [CABEC]
2/19/2026  Stevie-ARRIVES-12:40 PM
2/19/2026  Federal Sable-ARRIVES-3:03 PM
DUE:
Federal Alster-DUE-2/22/2026-2:00 AM
Harbour Progress-DUE-3/3/2026-11:59 AM

NANTICOKE, ONTARIO                             [CANAN]-Bill Kloss
DUE:
Algoberta-DUE-2/20/2026-10:42 AM
Algonova-DUE-2/20/2026-10:40 AM

DETROIT, MICHIGAN                                  [USDET]
2/18/2026  Iver Bright-ARRIVES-7:08 PM
2/19/2026  Algoma Innovator-ARRIVES-1:55 PM
DUE:
2/18/2026  USCG Bristol Bay-DUE-2/18/2026-7:17 PM

GODERICH, CANADA                                 [CAGOH]
DUE:
Algoma Intrepid-DUE-2/21/2026-12:39 AM
Algoma Innovator-DUE-2/20/2026-12:57 AM
Oakglen-DUE-3/1/2026-11:00 AM

SARNIA,CANADA                                          [CASNI]
2/19/2026  Baltic-DEPARTS-8:10 AM-For-Rogers City, Michigan
2/19/2026  CCGS Judy LaMarsh-DEPARTS-9:27 AM
2/19/2026  Algoberta-DUE-9:37 AM-For-Nanticoke, Canada
2/19/2026  Algonova-DEPARTS-9:45 AM-For-Nanticoke, Canada
2/19/2026 
DUE:
Algoterra-DUE-2/19/2026-7:27 PM
Algocanada-DUE-2/19/2026-7:19 PM

ROGERS CITY                                                 [USRCY]
DUE:
Baltic-DUE-2/20/2026-1:23 AM

CHEBOYGAN, MICHIGAN                        [USCHG]
2/19/2026  USCG Mackinaw-DEPARTS-8:47 AM-For-Mackinac Island, Michigan-[Ice OPS]

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN                      [USMKE]
DUE:
Algoma Niagara-DUE-2/20/2026-2:50 AM

SOUTH CHICAGO-CALUMET HARBOR, ILLINOIS       [USOUS]
2/19/2026  Frontenac-ARRIVES-6:20 PM

1862
1852:   NORTH STAR [Built-1854 By S.W. & A.A, Turner of Cleveland, Ohio] She Burned at Cleveland, OH, February 20, 1862, to a total loss. Machinery removed and hull raised and dismantled in spring, 1862

1903
1903:  On 20 February 1903, the straight-deck steamer G. WATSON FRENCH (steel propeller, 376 foot, 3,785 gross tons) was launched at W. Bay City, Michigan by West Bay City Ship Building Co. (Hull #608). She lasted until 1964, when she was scrapped by Lakehead Scrap Metal Co. at Fort William, Ontario. The other names she had during her career were b.) HENRY P. WERNER in 1924, c.) JOHN J. BOLAND in 1937, and d.) ALGOWAY in 1947.

1929
1929:   ANNIE MOILES [Built-1867 by S.J. Tripp at East Saginaw, Michigan. As ANNIE, MOILES Reg Changes: 1900-C-96851, 1911-US-1579, 1911-C-96851 and 1923-US-1579] Burned at Ecorse, MI, February 20, 1929.

1940
1940:  A fire broke out in the cargo hold of the package freighter KING at Buffalo when insulation, being installed for refrigeration purposes, ignited. Several firemen were overcome by the smoke, but damage to the ship was negligible.

1959
1959:  On February 20, 1959, Interlake Steamship Co.’s HERBERT C. JACKSON (Hull #302) was launched at Great Lakes Engineering Works in River Rouge, Michigan.

1982
1982:  The Canadian Coast Guard Icebreaker DES GROSEILLIERS (Hull #68) was launched February 20, 1982, at St. Catharines, Ontario by Port Weller Drydocks Ltd.

2024
2024:   American Queen Voyages, an operator of US river Cruises ceased operations as of February 20, 2024. The company operated the OCEAN NAVIGATOR and OCEAN VOYAGER which wre sailing on the great lakes during the summer months.

2025
The Polish Steamship Co. (Polsteam) of Szczecin, Poland, has added another new vessel to its Laker-class fleet of ships. Recently added is the Polsteam Okra (IMO 9984819), built in 2024 and registered in Portugal. This vessel is a sistership to four additional vessels that Polsteam has built all in China for its Laker-class series. Beginning with the Polsteam Dabie, the first of the series (IMO 9971850), they were joined by the Polsteam (Koprowo) IMO 9971862 and Polsteam Lebsko (IMO 9971874). The first three ships of the new series are all Liberian registered. A fourth vessel, Polsteam Pile (IMO 9971886) was also added to the fleet in 2024. This vessel is registered in Portugal. The new Laker-class series vessels are each 656 feet in length and 78 feet in width and will replace older vessels in the Polsteam fleet.

Data from: Skip Gillham, Jody Aho, Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Ahoy & Farewell II and the “Great Lakes Ships We Remember” series.

The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026

National Museum of the Great Lakes and Cleveland Underwater Explorers Confirm New Lake Erie Shipwreck, Announce Temporary Exhibit Highlighting Discovery

February 18, 2026 (Toledo, Ohio) – The National Museum of the Great Lakes (NMGL), in collaboration with Cleveland Underwater Explorers (CLUE), is proud to announce the confirmation of a newly discovered shipwreck in Lake Erie — the bark Clough — along with the opening of a temporary micro exhibit showcasing the find.
   CLUE, with support from NMGL, has worked since 2001 to locate and identify shipwrecks in Lake Erie, helping to preserve and share the region’s maritime history. Following several site visits, the creation of a detailed site map, and extensive historical research, the team has now positively identified the vessel as the Clough.
   The discovery carries deep meaning for CLUE and NMGL. The wreck site is associated with the tragic loss of CLUE founder David VanZandt in June 2024. In the months following his passing, both organizations committed to completing the identification process with care, accuracy, and respect. Through collaborative research and documentation, the vessel has now been formally confirmed.
   Built in Lorain, Ohio, in 1867, the Clough was a stone-hauling sailing vessel owned by Baxter Clough, a quarry owner from Amherst, Ohio. Measuring 125 feet in length with a breadth of 26.5 feet, the Clough was classified as a bark — a three-masted vessel rigged with square sails on the foremast and schooner sails on the main and mizzen masts. The ship met its fate just one year after its launch, sinking on September 15, 1868, while transporting stone for Great Lakes commerce.
   To share this important discovery with the public, NMGL will debut a new temporary micro exhibit highlighting the Clough and the process behind its identification. The exhibit opens February 18 and will be on view through April 16 at the National Museum of the Great Lakes in Toledo. Visitors will learn about the vessel’s history, the archaeological work that led to its confirmation, and CLUE’s ongoing efforts to document Lake Erie shipwrecks.
   “This discovery represents both a significant chapter in Great Lakes maritime history and a meaningful continuation of David VanZandt’s legacy,” said Carrie Sowden, Director of Archaeology and Research, National Museum of the Great Lakes. “We’re honored to partner with CLUE to bring this story to light and to share it with our community through this exhibit.”
   The Clough micro exhibit offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at underwater exploration and historical research, connecting modern discovery with 19th-century Great Lakes commerce.
   Museum admission includes access to the exhibit. For more information, visit nmgl.org.
   About the National Museum of the Great Lakes: The National Museum of the Great Lakes preserves, shares, and celebrates the past, present, and future of the Great Lakes story. As an interactive, experiential museum, we offer visitors the chance to explore thousands of years of history and stories through nine dynamic exhibit galleries—including a rotating temporary exhibition space—and two historic museum vessels, the Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship and the Museum Tug Ohio, plus the pilothouse of the storied St. Marys Challenger.
   Founded in 1944 as the Great Lakes Historical Society, we have a long-standing commitment to education, research, and storytelling. Our initiatives include the publication of Inland Seas®, a quarterly journal of Great Lakes history since 1945 and decades of maritime preservation and archaeological exploration. Today, we strive to be the gathering place for Great Lakes conversations—welcoming all to connect with the stories, people, and innovations that have shaped and continue to influence this vital region.
   About Cleveland Underwater Explorers (CLUE)
   Founded in 2001 by Lake Erie shipwreck divers David VanZandt and Kevin Magee, Cleveland Underwater Explorers (CLUE) began as a small team of engineers with a shared passion for maritime history. Today, CLUE is a multidisciplinary group of researchers, divers, and volunteers dedicated to locating, documenting, and preserving Ohio’s Lake Erie shipwrecks. For more than 25 years, the organization has combined technical diving, historical research, and archaeological documentation to better understand the region’s submerged heritage.
   CLUE has partnered regularly with the National Museum of the Great Lakes since 2006, collaborating on projects including the recovery and conservation of the Cortland bell, now on display in NMGL’s Shipwrecks and Safety Gallery, as well as investigations into historic wrecks such as the Lake Serpent (1829), Anthony Wayne (1850), Sultan (1864), and Argo (1937). Through ongoing exploration and research, CLUE continues to advance the understanding of Lake Erie’s maritime past while honoring the stories preserved beneath its waters.

WHAT: CLUE Micro Exhibit
WHEN: February 18 – April 16, 2026 | Museum Hours
WHERE: National Museum of the Great Lakes
1701 Front St., Toledo, OH 43605
ADMISSION: $14.00 (Museum Only) – Adults (18-64)
$12.00 (Museum Only) – Seniors (65+)
$8.00 (Museum Only) – Youth (6-17)
FREE – Children 5 and under, GLHS/NMGL Members
MEDIA CONTACT: Ashley Streichert Lovejoy, 419-460-8181
[You can see the official Press Release in gallery below]

Now available for application! “Mate Tug Class 1” position for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers onboard the tug Demolen

   The job announcement is now open, please find the announcement information below.
   Click on the link below in this e-mail to apply. Also can be found at “usajobs.gov” website.  “DHA” for the general public and “Merit” for current or former federal employees.
   Please see the job announcement links below for XH-5782-11 Mate, Tug, Class 1 position within the Detroit District.  These announcements will be used to fill the vacancy at the Detroit Project Office on the Tug DEMOLEN.
               DUTIES:             

• Ensures vessel is prepared to sail at the scheduled time, is seaworthy, properly crewed and fitted to accomplished assigned mission.
• Serves as timekeeper for the crew members and assists the Master to evaluate the crew’s performance.
• Navigates the vessel during assigned watch.
• Observes weather conditions, forecasts, barometer, wind velocity, and other weather indicators to determine suitableness for operation.
• Works from plans or field notes showing location and extent of work to be performed in removing shoals from channel. Locates area and makes necessary arrangement for accomplishing work.
• Enforces safety regulations and instructs crew both on safety work procedures and work practices peculiar to floating plant.
• Assigns port watches for safety and security of vessel and creates the schedule and insures equitable assignment of these duties to employees.
• Sets port watch schedule for safety and security of vessel. Ensures equitable assignment/rotation of workers.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Conditions of employment
• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: a Mate of Self-propelled vessels not including auxiliary sail of less than 500 gross register tons (GRT)upon Great Lakes and Inland Waters (or greater/equivalent).
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Master of towing vessels upon Great Lakes and inland waters (or equivalent).
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Radar Observer (Unlimited)
• This position is covered by the Civilian Drug Abuse Testing Program. Incumbent is required to sign a DA Form 5019-R. Individual must pass drug test.
• This position requires a pre-employment physical exam AND annual physical due to the physical requirement of the position.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state issued motor vehicle driver’s license.
• This position requires incumbent to obtain and maintain a First Aid Certification
• This position requires incumbent to wear safety equipment and/or use personal protective equipment (PPE) when needed.
• This position requires Temporary Duty Travel (TDY) up to 75% of duty time.
• Shift work is required during open-water (lake) towing operations.

OVERVIEW:
Accepting applications
Open & closing dates 02/17/2026 to 03/03/2026
Salary $47.96 to – $55.94 per day
Pay scale & grade XH 11
Location 001 vacancies in the following location: Detroit, MI
Remote job: No
Telework eligible: No
Travel Required: 75% or less – You may be expected to travel for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed: Yes—You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy.
Appointment type: Permanent
Work schedule: Full-time – Seasonal
Service: Competitive
Promotion potential: None
Job family (Series): 5782 Ship Operating
Supervisory status: No
Security clearance: Not Required
Drug test: Yes
Position sensitivity and risk: Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk
Trust determination process: Suitability/Fitness
Financial disclosure: No
Bargaining unit status: Yes
Merit:
Open: 2/17/2026
Close 3/3/2026
Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/857902000

DHA:
Open: 2/17/2026
Close 3/3/2026
Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/857899800

Memories of sailing for the Ford fleet featured at GLMI dinner April 12

   The Great Lakes Maritime Institute presents its annual dinner at 2 p.m. April 12 at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum in Detroit. Featured speaker will be Greg Rudnick, who will talk about his time sailing on the Ford Motor Co. vessels Henry Ford II and Benson Ford. See the flyer posted in the gallery for details. Reservations required by March 31.
[You can see the billing for this in the gallery below]

Chance to win a trip on a lakes freighter

Port and vessel activity for Wednesday February 18.  Port reports done by Tom Geiger unless otherwise noted. Please send future port reports and pictures to news@boatnerd.net
You can Now visit Matt Miner’s Saltie page at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/foreign-vessels-on-the-lakes-2024
The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at;  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026/

PORT REPORT 2/19/2026

BECANCOUR, CANADA                             [CABEC]
2/18/2026  Avonborg-DEPARTS-5:28 AM-For-Three Rivers, Canada
DUE:
Stevie-DUE-2/19/2026-12:42 PM
Federal Sable-DUE-2/19/2026-3:45 PM
Federal Alster-DUE-2/22/2026-11:09 AM
Harbour Progress-DUE-3/1/2026-10:21 PM

PORT COLBORNE,CANADA                    [CAPCO]
2/18/2026  CCGS Vincent Massey-ARRIVES-3:10 PM
2/18/2026  CCGS Vincent Massey-DEPARTS-3:29 PM-For-Port Colborne, Canada
2/18/2026  CCGS Vincent Massey-ARRIVES-3:55 PM
2/18/2026  CCGS Vincent Massey-DEPARTS-4:20 PM-For-[ICE OPS]
2/18/2026  Algoma Innovator-DEPARTS-4:25 pM-For-Goderich, Canada

PORT COLBORNE,CANADA                    [CAPCO]-Bill Kloss
Algoma Innovator departed layup in Port Colborne for Goderich

DETROIT, MICHIGAN                                  [USDET]
DUE:
USCG Bristol Bay-DUE-2/18/2026-7:17 PM
Iver Bright-DUE-2/18/2026-7:11 PM

GODERICH, CANADA                                 [CAGOH]
2/18/2026  Algoma Niagara-DEPARTS-9:55 AM-For-Milwaukee, Wisconsin
DUE:
Algoma Intrepid-DUE-2/20/2026-12:52 AM
Algoma Innovator-DUE-2/19/2026-11:05 PM
Oakglen-DUE-3/1/2026-11:00 AM

SARNIA,CANADA                                          [CASNI]
2/18/2026  Iver Bright-DEPARTS-2:16 PM-For-Detroit, Michigan
2/18/2026  CCGS Judy LaMarsh-ARRIVES-4:08 PM
2/18/2026  CCGS Judy LaMarsh-DEPARTS-5:27 PM-For-[ICE OPS]
DUE:
Algoterra-DUE-2/19/2026-7:51 AM
Algocanada-DUE-2/19/2026-7:08 AM

PORT HURON, MICHIGAN                       [USPHN]
2/18/2026  USCG Bristol Bay-DEPARTS-1:06 PM-For-Detroit, Michigan

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN                      [USMKE]
DUE:
Algoma Niagara-DUE-2/19/2026-10:28 PM

SOUTH CHICAGO-CALUMET HARBOR, ILLINOIS       [USOUS]
2/18/2026  Algtoma Intrepid-DEPARTS-8:39 AM-For-Goderich, Canada
DUE:
Frontenac-DUE-2/19/2026-9:31 PM

1887
1887:  Wolf & Davidson of Milwaukee sold the JIM SHERIFFS (wooden propeller, 182 foot, 634 gross tons, built in 1883, at Milwaukee, Wisconsin) to Kelley Island Line on 19 February 1887.

1907
1907:   CITY OF TOLEDO [Built-1865 by John F Squires at Toledo, Ohio] As Schooner: While passing through Belle Isle Bridge, Detroit, MI, with load of coal, and in tow of propeller JAMES FISKE  JR, July 21, 1906, draw closed of schooner, breaking off spars and opening her seams. Vessel sank in Middle Ground off Owen Park. Enrollment surrendered at Toledo, OH, February 19, 1907, and endorsed \”Vessel Lost.\” Wreck raised and rebuilt as lighter by Harris W. Baker; redocumented as schooner at Detroit, MI, October 10, 1908.

1940
1940:   C.D. THOMPSON [Built-1893  US-126998  by Jenks Shipbuilding Co, Port Huron, Michigan] Final enrollment surrendered at Albany, NY, February 19, 1940, and endorsed \”abandoned.\”

1942
1942:   FLORENCE D [Built-1919 US-218471 as LAKE FARMINGDALE by Super Ship Building Co. Renamed: FLORENCE D-1924 Philippines] As FLORENCE D was bombed and sunk by Japanese aircraft in Diemans Bay, off Bathurst Island, February 19, 1942. Cargo consisted of 3,000 reels barbed wire, 51,900 lbs. telephone wire, 250,000 lbs. sole leather, 16 cases airplane wings and tail cone fuselages, 160,000 rounds ammunition, 300,000 lbs. bulk sugar, and some hot/cold rolled sheeting. Sold by U.S. Government, 1956, to Australian syndicate for salvaging but not acted upon. Put up for auction, 1971

1951
1951:  The b.) TROY H. BROWNING, c.) THOMAS F. PATTON was towed from the James River with two other C4s, LOUIS MC HENRY HOWE, b.) TOM M. GIRDLER and MOUNT MANSFIELD, b.) CHARLES M. WHITE, to the Maryland Dry Dock Co., Baltimore, Maryland, February 1951, to be converted to a Great Lakes bulk carrier according to plans designed by J.J. Henry & Co., New York, New York.

1977
1977:   CITY OF MIDLAND 41 [Built-1941 US-240326  by Manitowoc Ship Building Co, Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Renamed: PERE MARQUETTE 41 after being cut converted to barge in 1998] As CITY OF MIDLAND 41 lost propeller in heavy ice on February 19, 1977, and sustained some hull damage in ice, winter 1976-1977. To Bay Shipbuilding yard for repairs about first of April, 1977.

1978
1978:   BLACK BAY [Built-1962 C-318682 by Collingwood Shipyards LTD at Collingwood, Ontario. Renamed: CANADIAN VOYAGER-1994 C-318682] As BLACK BAY: Aft cabins gutted by fire while at Montreal in winter lay-up, 19 February, 1978

1979
1979:   EAGLESCLIFFE HALL [Built-1957 by Grangemouth Dockyard Co..LTD, Scotland C-188893 Other names: EAGLESCLIFFE-1974]  As EAGLESCLIFFE: Ran aground in the Aransas Pass, February 19, 1979. Refloated and arrived in New Orleans, LA, on March 9, 1979

1981
1981:   SIR JOHN CROSBIE [Built-1962 by Port Weller Dry Docks LTD C-118774  Other Names: TERRA NOVA-1979] As TERRA NOVA: Disabled by crank case explosion, February 9, 1981, in position 52.09N x 52.17W; towed into St. John’s, Newfoundland, on February 15, 1981, for repairs

1981:  The Indian freighter JYOTI VINOD, a Seaway caller as a) JALAZAD beginning in 1969, departed Bombay with a cargo of jute, general freight and school buses. The nightmare voyage, which proved to be its last, did not reach Tema, Ghana, until December 23, 1981

1992
1992:  VIHREN, a Bulgarian built and flagged bulk carrier, was driven on the breakwall at Tuapse, USSR, in severe weather. The vessel later broke in two. The ship first came inland in 1983 headed for Thunder Bay. The two sections of the hull were refloated and each arrived at Aliaga, Turkey, for dismantling in August 1992.

1997
The tanker barge GREAT LAKES, pushed by the tug MICHIGAN was damaged when the combination “nudged” the EJ&E and Canal Street Bridge In Indiana Harbor. Minor hull fractures on the startboard side ballast tanks were discovered as the unit was approaching Grand Traverse Bay. These cracks caused the barge to take on water which was handled by the on board tanks.The unit will have permanet repairs made in Chicago.

2025
2025:   The Polish Steamship Company (Polsteam) of Szczecin, Poland, has sold and renamed three of its former Laker-class vessels, all of which were built in 1999. Each made its last inland visit in 2024. The ISA (IMO 9180358) is now the SELVANA of Panamanian registration. The ISADORA (IMO 9180372) is now the TOMKAR also of Panamanian registration. ISOLDA (IMO 9180360) now sails as the HIZMIR Reis of Tuvalu registration. Thus far the IRYDA and IRMA, built in 2000, have yet to be sold or renamed

Data from: Skip Gillham, Joe Barr, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the “Great Lakes Ships We Remember” series.

The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026

Now available for application! “Mate Tug Class 1” position for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers onboard the tug Demolen

   The job announcement is now open, please find the announcement information below.
   Click on the link below in this e-mail to apply. Also can be found at “usajobs.gov” website.  “DHA” for the general public and “Merit” for current or former federal employees.
   Please see the job announcement links below for XH-5782-11 Mate, Tug, Class 1 position within the Detroit District.  These announcements will be used to fill the vacancy at the Detroit Project Office on the Tug DEMOLEN.
               DUTIES:             

• Ensures vessel is prepared to sail at the scheduled time, is seaworthy, properly crewed and fitted to accomplished assigned mission.
• Serves as timekeeper for the crew members and assists the Master to evaluate the crew’s performance.
• Navigates the vessel during assigned watch.
• Observes weather conditions, forecasts, barometer, wind velocity, and other weather indicators to determine suitableness for operation.
• Works from plans or field notes showing location and extent of work to be performed in removing shoals from channel. Locates area and makes necessary arrangement for accomplishing work.
• Enforces safety regulations and instructs crew both on safety work procedures and work practices peculiar to floating plant.
• Assigns port watches for safety and security of vessel and creates the schedule and insures equitable assignment of these duties to employees.
• Sets port watch schedule for safety and security of vessel. Ensures equitable assignment/rotation of workers.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Conditions of employment
• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: a Mate of Self-propelled vessels not including auxiliary sail of less than 500 gross register tons (GRT)upon Great Lakes and Inland Waters (or greater/equivalent).
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Master of towing vessels upon Great Lakes and inland waters (or equivalent).
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Radar Observer (Unlimited)
• This position is covered by the Civilian Drug Abuse Testing Program. Incumbent is required to sign a DA Form 5019-R. Individual must pass drug test.
• This position requires a pre-employment physical exam AND annual physical due to the physical requirement of the position.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state issued motor vehicle driver’s license.
• This position requires incumbent to obtain and maintain a First Aid Certification
• This position requires incumbent to wear safety equipment and/or use personal protective equipment (PPE) when needed.
• This position requires Temporary Duty Travel (TDY) up to 75% of duty time.
• Shift work is required during open-water (lake) towing operations.

OVERVIEW:
Accepting applications
Open & closing dates 02/17/2026 to 03/03/2026
Salary $47.96 to – $55.94 per day
Pay scale & grade XH 11
Location 001 vacancies in the following location: Detroit, MI
Remote job: No
Telework eligible: No
Travel Required: 75% or less – You may be expected to travel for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed: Yes—You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy.
Appointment type: Permanent
Work schedule: Full-time – Seasonal
Service: Competitive
Promotion potential: None
Job family (Series): 5782 Ship Operating
Supervisory status: No
Security clearance: Not Required
Drug test: Yes
Position sensitivity and risk: Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk
Trust determination process: Suitability/Fitness
Financial disclosure: No
Bargaining unit status: Yes
Merit:
Open: 2/17/2026
Close 3/3/2026
Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/857902000

DHA:
Open: 2/17/2026
Close 3/3/2026
Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/857899800

White House releases long-awaited Maritime Action Plan

Written by Nick Blenkey

   The White House has released the Maritime Action Plan (MAP) called for in President Trump’s April 9, 2025 Executive Order on Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance., which said that “the MAP will provide a strategy with specific actions to restore and create sustained resiliency for the American maritime industry.”
   Since then maritime has been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the MAP. What’s in it?
   The 52-page MAP that has now been released is a far ranging and detailed document calling for action on multiple fronts..
   The introduction to the document says that it is “informed not only by domestic imperatives but also by international realities, [and] outlines targeted steps to rejuvenate the MIB [Maritime Industrial Base].”
  The MAP has been developed by the Secretary of State and Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs (APNSA), Marco Rubio and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Russel Vought, in coordination with the Secretary of War, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the United States Trade Representative (USTR).
   It calls for policies that modernize government procurement processes and streamline regulations to accelerate shipbuilding and reduce costs.
   “By streamlining regulatory processes, strengthening interagency coordination, and providing reliable long-term funding and demand for U.S.-built ships, shipyards, and mariners, America will rebuild maritime strength at the speed and scale required to meet the challenges of today and the future,” the introduction. concludes.
   The MAP has four pillars. Following are some extracts from the document:
   Pillar I: Rebuild U.S. Shipbuilding Capacity and Capabilities
   Recent data shows that the United States constructs less than one percent of commercial ships globally. Rebuilding America’s shipbuilding industrial capacity is critical to restoring America’s maritime strength.
   Through a series of actions, the United States will accelerate shipyard modernization, broaden supply-chain diversification, and trigger the growth of a ready fleet of ships built in the United States and operated under the U.S. flag, while ensuring fiscal discipline and interagency alignment across Federal agencies. The result will be measurable security and economic returns.
   Pillar I of this comprehensive, coordinated action plan lays out the urgent steps needed to rebuild the nation’s shipbuilding capacity, including:

• Increasing domestic shipbuilding capacity;
• Incentivizing investment in U.S. shipyards;
• Establishing Maritime Prosperity Zones to incentivize and align new domestic and allied investment in U.S. maritime industries and waterfront communities;
• Addressing myriad supply and demand issues; and,
• Reducing dependence on unreliable suppliers through heightened cooperation with allies and partners.

Pillar II: Reform Workforce Education and Training

   Expansion of mariner training and education, modernization of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), and maintenance of a comprehensive inventory of maritime training programs collectively anchor a robust, actionable plan to grow a capable and credentialed maritime workforce. Heightened attention to, and investment in, the U.S. maritime workforce will allow for expansion of the U.S. flagged fleet and align industry with both government objectives and the latest maritime education innovations.
   Pillar II of the MAP recommends actions required to reform maritime workforce and education, including the following:

• Expanding mariner training and education to address workforce challenges in the maritime sector through maritime educational institutions and workforce transitions;
• Providing financial and regulatory incentives for the training of shipbuilders and U.S. credentialed mariners;
• Modernizing the USMMA through Federal investment to address urgent deferred
• maintenance projects and other mission-critical repairs and develop a five-year capital improvement plan based on the long-term Master Facilities Plan for the modernization of the campus; and
• Otherwise enhancing maritime training capabilities to meet industry needs.

Pillar III: Protect the Maritime Industrial Base

Strengthening trade, Federal procurement, and market signals are the levers that align commercial incentives with national security. Effective trade policy, customs enforcement, allied coordination, and Federal acquisition reform will generate predictable demand for U.S.- built and U.S.-flagged vessels.
   Pillar III of the MAP lays out the urgent steps needed to protect the MIB and strengthen demand signals, including:

• Strengthen requirements for shipping government-impelled and commercial cargoes on U.S.-flagged vessels;
• Impose a Land Port Maintenance Tax to balance payments from importations across land ports versus maritime ports;
• Streamline and improve acquisition processes for USG vessels while reducing change orders; and
• Consider actions, as appropriate, based on USTR’s investigation of the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) targeting of the maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors for dominance.

   A strong maritime industry strengthens U.S. capacity to sustain military logistics, secure vital trade routes, compete in the global maritime economy, maintain a continuous and efficient flow of goods in domestic and international commerce, and, in times of conflict, support a wartime economy. The national security, economic security, and industrial resilience pillar of the MAP includes several interrelated elements designed to translate maritime policy into a strategic advantage. These elements link industrial capacity, fleet readiness, and strategic posture. By integrating defense coordination, procurement reform, reserve readiness, and regional security strategies, these combined efforts enable ready fleets, durable industrial capacity, and measurable national security benefits and economic returns.

Pillar IV: National Security, Economic Security,and Industrial Resilience

Pillar IV of the MAP recommends actions needed to strengthen national security, economic security, and the resilience of the maritime industry, including:

• Strengthening the security and resilience of the MIB through strengthening component supply chains;
• Increasing the fleet of commercial vessels trading internationally under the U.S. flag;
• Establishing a Maritime Security Trust Fund;
• Fostering the development of the autonomous maritime technology industry;
• Developing a strategy to secure Arctic waterways and enable American prosperity in the face of evolving Arctic security challenges and associated risks; and
• Prioritizing the recapitalization of government owned sealift vessels.

Read the whole document to see the detailed proposals made under the bullet points.
[You can download the complete document here]  https://www.marinelog.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Restoring-Americas-Maritime-Dominance-1.pdf

Chance to win a trip on a lakes freighter

Port and vessel activity for Tuesday February 17.  Port reports done by Tom Geiger unless otherwise noted. Please send future port reports and pictures to news@boatnerd.net
You can Now visit Matt Miner’s Saltie page at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/foreign-vessels-on-the-lakes-2024
The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at;  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026/

PORT REPORT 2/18/2026

BECANCOUR, CANADA                             [CABEC]
2/16/2026  Federal Satsuki-DEPARTS-5:35 PM-For-Quebec, Canada
2/16/2026  Avonborg-ARRIVES-6:08 PM
DUE:
Stevie-DUE-2/19/2026-9:42 AM
Federal Sable-DUE-2/19/2026-8:09 AM
Federal Alster-DUE-2/22/2026-8:23 AM
Harbour Progress-DUE-3/2/2026-4:24 AM
Bulk Endurance-DUE-3/7/2026-6:27 AM

NANTICOKE, ONTARIO                             [CANAN]-Bill Kloss
Icebreaker Neah Bay is escorting Algocanada and Algoterra out of Nanticoke as they head for Sarnia.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN                                  [USDET]
DUE:
Frontenac-DUE-2/18/2026-9:31 AM

WINDSOR, CANADA                                   [CAWND]
2/17/2026  Frontenac-DEPARTS-2/17/2026-7:44 AM-For-Detroit, Michigan
2/17/2026  CCGS Judy LaMarsh-ARRIVES-1:01 PM
2/17/2026  CCGS Judy LaMarsh-DEPARTS-4:39 PM-For-[ICE OPS]

GODERICH, CANADA                                 [CAGOH]
DUE:
Oakglen-DUE-3/1/2026-11:00 AM

SARNIA,CANADA                                          [CASNI]
2/17/2026  Baltic-ARRIVES-9:21 AM
2/17/2026  CCGS-Vincent Massey-DEPARTS-9:46 AM-For-[ICE OPS]
DUE;
Algocanada-DUE-2/18/2026-7:51 PM
Algoterra-DUE-2/18/2026-3:26 PM

PORT HURON, MICHIGAN                       [USPHN]
2/17/2026  USCG Bristol Bay-ARRIVES-2:01 PM

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN                      [USMKE]
2/17/2026  Karen Andrie-DEPARTS-1:06 AM-For-Indiana Harbor, Indiana
2/17/2026  Neeskay-DEPARTS-7:34 AM-For-Milwaukee, Wisconsin
2/17/2026  Neeskay-ARRIVES-1:47 PM
DUE;
Algoma Niagara-DUE-2/17/2026-8:28 PM

SOUTH CHICAGO-CALUMET HARBOR, ILLINOIS       [USOUS]
2/17/2026  Algoma Intrepid-ARRIVES-10:00 AM
DUE:
Algoma Intrepid-DUE-2/17/2026-7:19 PM

INDIANA HARBOR-INDIANA                  [USECH]
2/17/2026  Karen Andrie-ARRIVES-9:07 AM

1886
1886:  The Murphy fleet was sold on 18 February 1886. The tugs GLADIATOR, KATE WILLIAMS and BALIZE went to Captain Maytham, the tug WILLIAM A. MOORE to Mr. Grummond, the schooner GERRIT SMITH to Captain John E. Winn, and the tug ANDREW J. SMITH to Mr. Preston Brady.

1910
1910:   ANGUS SMITH [BUILT-1871  US-105030 by Smith & Davidson, Milwaukee, Wisconsin] Final enrollment surrendered at Cleveland, OH, February 18, 1910, and endorsed \”abandoned.\”US-248326

1957
1957:   ARCHERS HOPE [Built-1945 by Alabama Dry Dock & Shipbuilding Co. at Mobile, Alabama. Renamed: JOSEPH S YOUNG-1957 US-248326, H LEE WHITE-1969 US-248326, and SHARON-1974] Converted to bulk carrier and lengthened by Maryland Shipbuilding & Dry Dock Co., Baltimore, MD, 1956-1957. Towed to Manitowoc Ship Building Co., arriving there on February 18, 1957, for completion a self-unloader (572 x 68.16 x 39.16; 12489 gross – 8820 net). Lengthened by American Ship Building Co., South Chicago, IL, in winter of 1965-1966 (656 x 68.16 x 39.16; 14452 gross – 10783 net).This was the last large vessel to enter the Lakes via the Mississippi. She was the first of seven T-2 tanker conversions for Great Lakes service. SHARON was scrapped at Brownsville, Texas in 1986.

1977
1977:  IMPERIAL ST. CLAIR participated in an historic special convoy with DOAN TRANSPORT, which carried caustic soda, led by C.C.G.S. GRIFFON arriving at Thunder Bay, Ontario on February 18, 1977. The journey took one week from Sarnia, Ontario through Lake Superior ice as much as six feet thick, and at one point it took four days to travel 60 miles. The trip was initiated to supply residents of the Canadian lakehead with 86,000 barrels of heating oil the reserves of which were becoming depleted due to severe weather that winter.

2-18-1979
1979:   GEMINI [Built-1978 US-596154  by Levingston Shipbuilding Co. at Orange, Texas. Renamed: ALGOSAR-2005 C-827130] As GEMINI: Sustained small hull crack in ice in Saginaw Bay, February 18, 1979.

1980
1980:  PANAGIS K. arrived at Alexandria, Egypt, on this date and was soon placed under arrest. The ship was idle and in a collision there with NORTH WAVE on January 23, 1981. The hull was abandoned aground, vandalized and, on October 12, 1985, auctioned off for scrap. The ship first traded through the Seaway in 1960 as a) MANCHESTER FAME and returned as b) CAIRNGLEN in 1965, again as c) MANCHESTER FAME in 1967 and as d) ILKON NIKI in 1972.

1981
1981:   CANADIANA [Built-1910 US-207479 By Buffalo Dry Dock Co. at Buffalo, New York. CANADIANA broke from her moorings and sank at Collision Bend, Cleveland, OH, on February 18, 1981. Raised by the Northrup Contracting Co., June 21, 1983. Moved to Ashtabula for refitting or repairs, towed by the JIGGS.

1983
1983:   RICHELIEU [Built-1966 C-323022 By Davie Shipbuilding LTD. At Lauson, Canada. Renamed: ALGOCAPE-1994 C-323022] As RICHELIEU: An explosion and fire on February 18, 1983 kills 3. Stanley Humar, Gary McDonald, and Steve Elsey, of Thunder Bay, Ontario were working on the bow of the 730-foot vessel.  No immediate cause of the explosion and fire was determined, but oxygen acetyline torches apparently were being used. Bound for Aliaga, Turkey, to be scrapped, 2012.

2010
2010:  The sailing ship CONCORDIA visited the Great Lakes in 2001 and participated in the Tall Ships Festival at Bay City, MI. It sank in the Atlantic about 300 miles off Rio de Janeiro after being caught in a severe squall. All 64 on board were rescued from life rafts after a harrowing ordeal.

2010
2010:  The tug ADANAC (Canada spelled backwards) sank at the Essar Steel dock at Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. It was refloated the next day.

Data from: Skip Gillham, Jody Aho, Joe Barr, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series.

Port and vessel activity for Monday February 16.  Port reports done by Tom Geiger unless otherwise noted. Please send future port reports and pictures to news@boatnerd.net
You can Now visit Matt Miner’s Saltie page at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/foreign-vessels-on-the-lakes-2024
The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at;  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026/

PORT REPORT 2/17/2026

BECANCOUR, CANADA                             [CABEC]
DUE:
Federal Sable-DUE-2/19/2026-2:49 AM
Stevie-DUE-2/19/2026-7:31 AM
Federal Alster-DUE-2/26/2026-9:49 PM
Bulk Endurance-DUE-3/8/2026-11:55 AM
Rudolf-DUE-3/8/2026-10:41 AM

NANTICOKE, ONTARIO                             [CANAN]-Bill Kloss

PORT DOVER, CANADA                             [CAPDV]

MONROE, MICHIGAN                                 [USMOI]-Bill Kloss

DETROIT, MICHIGAN                                  [USDET]
2/16/2026  Iver Bright-DEPARTS-8:25 AM-For-Sarnia, Canada
DUE:
USCG Bristol Bay-DUE-2/15/2026-6:49 PM

GODERICH, CANADA                                 [CAGOH]
2/16/2026  CCGS Vincent Massey-DEPARTS-11:03 AM-For-[Ice OPS]
DUE:
Oakglen-3/1/2026-11:00 AM

SARNIA,CANADA                                          [CASNI]
2/16/2026  Iver Bright-ARRIVES-2:00 PM
2/16/2026  Algonova-ARRIVES-2:00 PM
DUE:
Baltic-DUE-2/15/2026-1:00 PM
Algocanada-DUE-2/17/2026-3:10 PM

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN                      [USMKE]
2/16/2026  Neeskay-DEPARTS-7:33 AM
2/16/2026  Karen Andrie-ARRIVES-9:”58 AM
DUE:
Algoma Niagara-DUE-2/17/2026-8:28 PM

SOUTH CHICAGO-CALUMET HARBOR, ILLINOIS       [USOUS]
DUE:
Algoma Intrepid-2/17/2026-8:22 AM
Frontenac-DUE-2/18/2026-9:00 AM

INDIANA HARBOR-INDIANA                  [USECH]
2/16/2025  Karen Andrie-DEPARTS-1:01 AM-For-Milwaukee, Wisconsin