Action 97 - Nav Aids Going?
Background: (This information is quoted from https://uscg-marker-removals.webflow.io/ ).
“The U.S. Coast Guard has proposed a wide-reaching plan to remove or alter hundreds of navigational markers along the Northeast US coast, including buoys, daybeacons, and lights that have long helped mariners safely navigate coastal and inland waters. These changes, published in the Local Notice to Mariners (LNM) 01-16-2025, are part of an effort to streamline the Aids to Navigation (ATON) system — but many in the maritime community have raised concerns about how these removals could impact safety, access, and local knowledge.
The first link shown above (https://.....) is to a website with a map. “This site is an attempt to visualize and track all proposed marker removals in District 1 using public data, mapping tools like Leaflet.js, OpenStreetMap, Marine Traffic and feedback from local mariners. This data is based on the (Local Notice) document linked above, published on April 15, 2025.”
Action:
“If you’re concerned about the proposed removal of navigational markers in your area, you can make your voice heard. The U.S. Coast Guard is accepting public comments, and feedback from mariners and local communities is critical in shaping final decisions. To share your perspective, email DPWPublicComments@uscg.mil with your observations, concerns, or support regarding specific markers. Even a short message can make a difference.”
“To make your comments as impactful as possible, please include the type and size of your vessel (recreational or commercial), how the aid supports your navigation, and the distance at which you typically begin to rely on it.”
“If you want to comment to the Coast Guard on this, follow the instructions in this site: https://www.navcen.uscg.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/lnms/D1%20Coastal%20Buoy%20%20Modernization%20Inititative%20Proposal%20.pdf”
Pass this info along to your mariner friends.
Urgency: ALL COMMENTS DUE BY 13 JUNE
Extra Credit: Can someone find out if this effort is a result of DOGE, and if the Starlink satellite system is somehow involved, for instance getting a navigation contract with the coast guard? Maybe call Senator King’s office and ask them to find out. If so, there should be a conflict-of-interest investigation (one of many needed!!) Let us know what you find out!