The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced June 5 the designation of the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary as the 16th sanctuary in a system of underwater parks that encompasses 620,000 square miles of ocean and Great Lakes waters.
“We’re excited to celebrate this day,” said Oswego County Legislature Chairman James Weatherup. “This designation marks an incredible achievement for Oswego County and its partners — one that will benefit all of our Lake Ontario communities through economic development and heritage preservation as well as increased tourism and educational opportunities. I am proud to accept this designation and look forward to the successful impacts it will have on our region.”
In 2017, following three years of research and development, Oswego County and neighboring Cayuga, Jefferson and Wayne counties and the city of Oswego partnered to submit a nomination bid to NOAA for the designation of a 1,700-square mile area as a national marine sanctuary based on the cultural and historical significance of its waters.
“The designation of the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary is important, not only for its heritage, but for the cooperative effort that led us here,” said Oswego County Administrator Philip Church, chair of the sanctuary nomination task force. “It represents 10 years of tireless work by NOAA and state staff, public officials and civic organizations and dedicated private citizens who volunteered countless hours to help bring this designation to fruition.
“Now, the truly rewarding effort begins as our local communities, together with state and federal agencies, work to fulfill the educational, economic, research and conservational potential of the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary.”
“I’m looking forward to our continued collaboration as we build upon this moment,” he added.
The designation of the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary recognizes Lake Ontario as a truly unique and incredible resource — from its early history as a primary maritime trade and transportation route, to its strategic position during times of conflict in the colonial period, to its vital role as the gateway to upper lake trade, westward migration and the development of the U.S. interior.
“The Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary is one of the most historically significant regions in the Great Lakes and North America,” said William Crist, chairman of the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Committee. “This designation enhances the rich nautical history of Eastern Lake Ontario and brings much deserved worldwide recognition to our area. With today’s announcement, we increase our focus on bringing awareness and protection to this unique heritage, fostering education and research and expanding opportunities for tourism and recreation.”
There are many nationally significant shipwrecks located in Lake Ontario and at least one known aircraft. However, the historical record indicates that more than 40 shipwrecks and two historic aircraft are also likely within its boundaries. Of those known shipwrecks, the St. Peter is on the National Register of Historic Places and the David W. Mills is New York state’s only Submerged Cultural Preserve and Dive Site in its Great Lakes.
