For the 2017-2018 ice season, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will have four vessels available for icebreaking needs. DNR reports that "a heavy ice season may restrict our ability to reach every area on a regular basis due to each vessel's ice breaking capabilities, USCG restrictions, weather conditions, tidal levels, and the possible need to relocate vessels to areas of greater need."

M/V J.M. Tawes

The J.M. Tawes is a 100-foot, 1000 HP buoy tender captained by Captain Eddie Somers. It is capable of breaking through ice up to 18 inches thick. While areas of responsibility include Crisfield Harbor, the small boat harbor, east entrance in Smith Island, Tylerton, Ewell, Deale Island (Upper Thorofare), Nanticoke Harbor and Tedious Creek to Lt. #1, the Tawes' primary responsibility is providing an open channel to Smith Island. The Tawes will also assist the USCG with emergency fuel deliveries in the Wicomico and Nanticoke Rivers as necessary. 

M/V J.C. Widener

The J.C. Widener, captained by Captain Jeff Lill, is a 73-foot buoy tender with 525 HP, capable of breaking through ice six to eight inches thick. Areas of responsibility include Annapolis Harbor, Back Creek,  South River, Spa Creek to Truxton Park, Magothy River to Deep Creek #1, Severn River to the Rt. 50/301 bridge, and West River to #6 Councillors Point. 

M/V A.V. Sandusky

The A.V. Sandusky is 700 HP, 80-foot buoy tender captained by Captain Shawn Orr. Ice-breaking capability is eight-inches thick. Areas of responsibility include Kent Narrows, Rock Hall, Chester River to Cedar Point, Miles River to St. Michaels, Eastern Bay, and Tilghman Creek.

Big Lou

Big Lou, captained by captain Doug Scofield, is a 50-tug with 450 HP, capable of breaking through ice six inches thick. Areas of responsibility are Knapps Narrows, Choptank River to Secretary, Broad Creek to Neavitt Wharf, Tred Avon to the USCG Station, Cambridge Harbor, Little Choptank River, Slaughter Creek, and Madison Bay. Photo courtesy Maryland Department of Natural Resources For more details on DNR's hydrographic engineering icebreaking operations, click here.