April 19, 2026.
The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe Natural Resources Division Staff was notified at approximately 5:45 p.m. on April 16 about a potential oil spill at the McKay Bay boat launch, east of Cedarville.
Upon learning of the issue, staff immediately contacted local and tribal law enforcement and began coordinating with the U.S. Coast Guard on containment and cleanup efforts to prevent the spill from migrating to sensitive coastal wetlands.
An investigation into the cause and full extent of the spill is ongoing.
The boat launch is temporarily closed, and the public is asked to stay away from the area to allow staff to focus on clean-up efforts.
“Meteorologist Tom O'Hare reported that crews are working on and around the fishing vessel docked at the launch area that was there all winter. He also reported that over the weekend you can clearly smell the spill. It was extremely strong when winds were blowing onshore and there appears to be a sheen of oil on the surface of the water.”
Photo Credits Social Media Post Meteorologist Tom O'Hare.
