The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Alder (WLB-216) is a 225 foot multi-mission buoy tender primarily responsible for Lake Superior and upper Lake Michigan, but also operates throughout the Great Lakes when needed.

The Cutter was in the Keweenaw last week, doing its annual spring job of setting the buoys for navigational purposes on Lake Superior and in the Portage Canal. We have a trio of photographers who snapped shots of her on the job, starting with Jeff Dennis, who spotted the Alder on the Portage as it sailed past Michigan Tech and Ripley.

From there, we head to Eagle Harbor, where E. Neil Harri, captured the Alder setting the buoy at the entry to Eagle Harbor. You can see her doing her job between the two trees on the right side of the photo. What a great view Neil has!

The third spotting was by Steve Brimm as the Alder was setting the buoy at the entrance to Copper Harbor. You’ll once again hear the clank of the bell buoy when the waves are rocking in the summer months. Steve said it was a good day in the Harbor, since the Isle Royale Queen returned just before the Alder arrived, but he missed the Queen’s arrival.

We’re on the lake in today’s video, too, but on Lake Michigan, heading under the Mackinac Bridge to Lake Huron and on to Stone Port, MI, with Keith Baker from ”Storm Warrior” Great Lakes Sailor. Enjoy the look-see of the underside of the Big Mac.

We're getting closer to those "Summertime Pics",
bring them on!! Nice Pics and the video is cool
too! Looking forward to getting back U.P.!!!!!

Good stuff! You go Buoyyyyyyy!

Hi
I like the Copper Harbor one the best.