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.
Several navigational markers in our region and around Fishers Island are part of the list for removal. These aids are essential for the safe navigation of our complex and sometimes challenging waters. HERE is an interactive map showing the location of all markers proposed for removal.
Below is a list of the markers surrounding Fishers Island that will impact our boaters and sailors. They stretch from the mouth of the Thames River to Race Point to Watch Hill—and beyond.
- Race Point Buoy 2
- Silver Eel Pond Entrance Lighted Whistle Buoy SE
- Black Ledge Buoy 4BL
- New London Harbor Channel Lighted Buoy 1
- New London Harbor Channel Lighted Buoy 2
- New London Harbor Channel Lighted Buoy 5
- New London Harbor Buoy 14
- Wicopesset Passage Bell Buoy W
- Wicopesset Rock Buoy 7
- Wicopesset Ledge Buoy 9
- Lords Passage Lighted Whistle Buoy L
- Stonington Harbor Approach Buoy 2
- Stonington Harbor Approach Gong Buoy 3
- Catumb Passage Buoy 3C
- Watch Hill Passage Buoy WH
If you share our deep concern with the proposed removal of these navigational markers, we encourage you to join us in contacting the U.S. Coast Guard. The USCG 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. They are taking public comments until June 12th.
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.
HERE is a form letter that you may adapt with your information before copying into your email and sending to DPWPublicComments@uscg.mil.
Sincerely,
Team Fishers Island
