Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary Designation; Final Regulations

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issues final regulations to implement the designation of the Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary (WSCNMS). The approximately 962 square-mile area encompasses a portion of the waters and submerged lands of Lake Michigan adjacent to Ozaukee, Sheboygan, Manitowoc, and Kewaunee Counties. The area includes a nationally significant collection of underwater cultural resources, including 36 known shipwrecks and about 59 suspected shipwrecks. Well preserved by Lake Michigan's cold, fresh water, the shipwrecks in the WSCNMS possess exceptional historical, archaeological and recreational value. NOAA and the State of Wisconsin will co-manage WSCNMS.