Greetings boaters. It’s nearly March, and there’s a lot going on to report from the Harbormaster’s office in Manchester right now. Let’s get to it.
For those who missed payment by March 31 and did not reach out to the Harbor Department, your mooring has been designated for reassignment. If your mooring has been designated for reassignment you will receive a notice from the harbormaster.
Covid disrupted many things including vessel use for some boaters. Please be advised, if you did not use your mooring last year you must have your vessel on by June 30 this year unless you have made arrangements with the Harbor Department.
Magnolia mooring holders, this also applies to you. There is now a wait list for moorings in Magnolia Harbor and moorings must be used in accordance with Manchester regulations.
The Tucks Point project is moving ahead! Seven pilings are in and some floats are attached. J&L Welding will finish the fabrication of the new ramp behind town-hall. What a ramp!
The Rotunda and walkway are in need of attention. The pilings supporting this portion of the facility are 51 years old and due to be replaced. In addition, the rotunda must be raised 5-7 feet in order to meet engineering and permitting requirements for the expected lifetime of a refurbished substructure.
The DPW and FOTH engineers are working to determine a timeline and price for this project and there is some good news. Unlike the floats, the rotunda is licensed and therefore will not face the same challenges as the floats from a regulatory standpoint. In addition, the boring done for the float piling s means no need to do more for the rotunda project.
Expect to see more updates in the coming weeks!
A beached whale, dolphin or porpoise should be reported immediately and left alone pending further instruction. Call the NOAA 24-hour Marine Animal Hotline: (866) 755-6622. Please leave your name and a phone number where you can be reached.
Sea turtles in our region do not typically come ashore unless they are seriously debilitated. Call the 24-hour Marine Animal Hotline: (866) 755-6622.
Seals belong on the beach. It’s normal. What should you do if you spot a seal on the beach?
Keep people and dogs 150 feet away from the seal. Does the seal look injured or unhealthy? If so, please call (866) 755-6622 or call me, your harbormaster. All marine mammals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act. This law makes it illegal to touch, disturb, feed or otherwise harass marine mammals without authorization.
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority Bridge at “Mile 1.0” in Manchester has been operating as follows: the draw shall open from Memorial Day thru September 30 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. From Memorial Day and from October 1 to November 1 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. At all other times, the draw shall open on signal with at least four hours of notice. Call (617) 222-6114.
Manchester Harbormaster only tows those vessels that are in immediate danger or present a potential environmental hazard. Please contact a towing or salvage operator should you need to be towed.
What happens when you breakdown or run out of gas or some other unforeseen event that ruins a perfectly nice boating day? If you are lucky enough to be in an area where the community allows towing by the harbormaster help is nearby and probably free. Many communities including Manchester do not allow towing unless there is risk to life or property involved, otherwise you will pay large sums for towing service. It would be wise to consider the purchase of towing insurance from your insurance company, Seatow or Tow Boat US. For a reasonable rate you will potentially avoid paying thousands in towing fees.
Think about it and plan for next year.
Harbormaster office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Wednesday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday. Hours will vary depending on training, Safe Boating classes and meetings. Feel free to call before coming to the office. And if you do come in, please wear a mask and stick to safe distancing requirements.
Finally, be vigilant and notify the harbormaster of any missing or off station aids to navigation. The latest Manchester Harbor Rules and Regulations are posted on the Harbormaster website.
