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[Duluth, MN] – The Fire Departments of Duluth and Superior collaborated on a grant to fund a new “all hazard quick response vessel” through the Port Security Grant Program. This week, the two entities were informed that the grant was approved for $447,750. The grant also requires a 25% match from the grantee of $149,250. This project was made possible by the collaborative efforts of the community, private and public stakeholders and public agencies.

The Port of Duluth-Superior contains 49 miles of shoreline, 20 active commercial docks and can expect nearly 1000 domestic and foreign vessel visits annually. The Port has been one of the region’s largest drivers of economic activity for more than a century. Today, it helps support 11,500 jobs that generate over $1.5 billion in business revenues to bolster the state’s economy.

Currently, the Duluth Fire Department responds to all marine emergencies with a 12 foot inflatable boat and two water rescue surf boards. The Superior Fire Department responds to emergencies with a 22 foot vessel that has limited capabilities and does not meet the current needs of the port.  Currently, neither department is sufficiently equipped to respond to complex problems that arise in the Port area.

The new 31 x 10.5 foot quick response vessel will enhance emergency response by providing additional fire suppression, environmental response, search/rescue, medivac and emergency medical capabilities to the region.  In addition, this new vessel will also provide a safe marine platform for emergency response personnel. 

“The Duluth and Superior Fire Departments are thrilled to announce this Port Security grant which signifies a strong partnership that will benefit our mutual cities, economy, and increase safety for our communities. We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for this grant and our partners at the Duluth Seaway Port Authority who helped support this proposal,” said Duluth Fire Chief Dennis Edwards.

This new vessel will be docked at the Pier B Resort and managed by Duluth Fire Department personnel.  The vessel will support the City of Superior through a long-standing mutual aid agreement that makes Duluth Fire Department staff and equipment available for immediate response.

“I am excited to be part of this cooperative commitment to improving emergency response in our Port that will increase employee safety and protect assets. We have a great working relationship with our Port partners and this new vessel brings us to the next level in emergency response,” said Steve Panger, Superior Fire Chief.

The new vessel will be built with the following features:

• High speed capable
• Twin 300 hp outboard propulsion
• Thermal imaging night vision camera
• Side scan sonar for underwater search
• Enhanced radar and GPS navigation
• Capacity to transport eight personnel
• Independent driven fire pump capable of 2000 gallons per minute
• Roof mounted 1500 gallons per minute monitor
• Shallow draft for increased accessibility
• Firefighting foam injection system
• Large diameter water discharge to support land based fire suppression operations

The Fire Departments hope to welcome delivery of the vessel by spring of 2017.

Media with questions should contact Duluth Fire Captain Scott Kleive at (218) 428-9116, or (218) 730-4400.