Climate Change at Isle Royale: The America Dock

America was a passenger, package, and mail freighter that served as a prime communication and transportation link between Isle Royale and the mainland during the early 20^th century. The ship was frequented by travelers needing passage to and from the many historic resorts that dotted the island during this time period.

While it made stops in many places, Snug Harbor was perhaps America’s most notable layover. Snug Harbor maintained a sizeable dock built to suit the large incoming ships carrying incoming resort guests and supplies. Today, this dock is known as the America Dock, and it is preserved for the significant role it played in Isle Royale’s maritime and human history.

The historic America Dock in disrepair due to severe storm damage.

Derrick Jaeger

Climate Concerns

Isle Royale docks and structures have long been subject to weathering by Lake Superior. However, changing climate has exacerbated this problem. Between 2013 and 2019, the lake’s water levels rose three feet. Warming waters, which increase air temperature, have also led to greater storm severity. The combination of high water levels and severe storms causes shore erosion and intense wave activity, resulting in damage to docks.

These circumstances can be seen in the damage sustained to the historic America Dock. For consecutive winters, storms on Lake Superior have battered the structure. Once a tangible historic landmark for modern day visitors, the America dock was deemed unsafe for visitor use in 2020, and now can only be seen in ruins from a distance.

The America lifeboat at the bottom of Lake Superior.

NPS Photo

America Lifeboat

Intense storms have also taken a toll on the historic America lifeboat, which was once displayed on the America Dock. During the winter of 2018, extreme weather pushed freezing water and ice across the dock, washing the lifeboat exhibit into the water. Just like the America itself, its lifeboat now rests at the bottom of Lake Superior.

Bottom Line

Isle Royale’s historic and cultural landmarks give today’s visitors an opportunity to interact with the past. As the climate changes, and Lake Superior storms surge and water levels rise, these landmarks are put at risk, and evidence to bygone years are lost.

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