In the early hours of July 27, 2014, a Donjon-SMIT NTVRP (Non-Tank Vessel Response Plan) vessel, a handysize bulk carrier, grounded in Lake St. Clair, near Detroit MI.
In accordance with the vessel’s plan activation, the SMFF resource provider Donjon-SMIT were contacted who immediately mobilized USCG Sector D09 (Lake Michigan) Martin Ottaway RSA Mr. Mike Schmeltzer of Durocher Marine, regarding rapid situation assessment attendance of the vessel.
In addition, a Donjon-SMIT salvage team including the author, were mobilized to attend the vessel, assess the grounding situation and to develop a salvage plan.
Mr. Schmeltzer was able to provide vital early on-site feedback regarding the nature of the grounding. In addition Mr. Schmeltzer was able to provide invaluable local knowledge and information concerning availability of local towing and lightering capability and of navigational hazards in the vicinity of the grounded vessel.
As a result, the vessel was successfully refloated in the early hours of July 29, 2014 with the use of locally sourced towing equipment and subsequently delivered safely to anchorage for further assessment.
We would like to thank Mr. Schmeltzer for his professionalism in assisting to deliver a successful casualty response.
The Martin Ottaway RSA SMFF network is managed on behalf of Donjon-SMIT by Martin & Ottaway and provides the required Salvage and Marine Fire Fighting, Rapid Situation Assessment (RSA) for Donjon-SMIT client tank vessel and non-tank vessel OPA-90 plan holders in US waters.
For more information please visit the following websites:
Chris Law
