SAGINAW, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – The U.S. Coast Guard will restore full operations at its Saginaw River station in 2027 after operating at reduced capacity for two years.

Workforce shortages forced the reduction in operations; officials credit record recruiting results for the decision to restore full capacity.
Kawkawlin Township Fire Chief Steve Bernreuter told WNEM the return to full staffing will support ice and water rescue operations on Saginaw Bay.

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The Coast Guard provides larger vessels and a larger airboat for rescue response. While operating at reduced capacity, the Saginaw station relied on a crew based in Tawas, two hours away.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet, who serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said she pushed the Coast Guard for more than a year to restore full coverage at the station. She said she will continue working with the Coast Guard and through the committee to restore services.

The Coast Guard said restoration of full operations at the station is contingent upon fiscal year 2027 budget appropriations.