Marina Proposal Introduction

Harbor Friends offers this proposal for the development of a marina in the Grand Marais harbor in response to the need expressed by many in the Grand Marais community for a measured and reasonable plan to increase opportunities for boaters, to improve water quality in the harbor, to protect the scenic harbor area, to protect the environment and to protect and improve economic opportunity in the area.

Its purpose is to give voice to those who’s only interest is passing on a protected, safer, historic and beautiful, but better harbor to future generations.

This is simply a proposal. Its purpose is to give an example of what can be done with a comprehensive, principled approach to the issues.

Marina Archives

Grand Marais Harbor and Marina: Studies, Reports and Considerations
(PDF 4.5MB) January 2007
Grand Marais Harbor and Marina: A History
(PDF 7.8MB) January 2007
Harbor Friends Marina Proposal - May 2005
PDF document, 83 pages (868 KB)
Marina and Boating Activity Study for the Western End of Lake Superior, Oct. 2006 (PDF 4.2MB)
A detailed study of the existing marina operations at our end of the lake. This is an invaluable document for evaluating existing and prospective marina operations and will have implications when considering any such development in the Grand Marais harbor.
1992 Wilson Marina Report (PDF 33.9MB)
An economic study of the harbors along the North Shore of Lake Superior, prepared by Ken Wilson for the North Shore Management Board
DNR Letter detailing list of issues to be considered for harbor development including impacts on wildlife, water quality and landside uses. Dated April 12, 2005. View alternative PDF version (579 KB)
DNR Letter to Grand Marais Mayor Mark Sandbo, dated December 21, 2005 as obtained under the Freedom of Information Act, the DNR Marina Requirements as of 12-21-2005 (the second page of the letter).
gif graphics, (31KB, 22KB)
Harbor Friends Ad 12/16/05 (PDF 320KB)
Thanks supporters and volunteers for their dedication, and highlights their achievements for 2005.
Harbor Friends Ad 10/21/05 (PDF 239KB)
Graphically maps the impact of a large harbor, and lists the reasons Harbor Friends opposes a large marina development.
Harbor Friends Ad 10/14/05 (PDF 194KB)
Who is setting the agenda? Highlights private discussions between Grand Marais Mayor and DNR staff.
Harbor Friends Ad 9/16/05 (PDF 488KB)
How the Harbor Friends Plan is a real solution to the exisiting marina shortfalls.
"As I See It" Guest Perspective, published 8/25/05 in the Cook County News Herald; written by John Haluska
Harbor Friends Ad 8/12/05 (PDF 539KB)
What the City Council newspaper notice does NOT tell you.
Harbor Friends Ad 7/29/05 (PDF 150KB)
This ad discusses who are members are, and what we want from the Grand Marais City Council.
Harbor Friends Ad 7/22/05 (PDF 808KB)
Village Commons - Fisherman's Picnic 1936
Harbor Friends Ad 7/8/05 (PDF 148KB)
8 Myths Dispelled
Harbor Friends Ad 6/24/05 (PDF 135KB)
Printable membership form.
Harbor Friends Advertisement 6/17/05 (PDF 847KB)
This ad looks at historical and current uses of the beach
Harbor Friends Advertisement 6/10/05 (PDF 226KB)
This ad covers Harbor Friends membership and encourages people to join the efforts for a safe, sane harbor
Harbor Friends Advertisement 6/3/05 (PDF 511KB)
This ad discusses the west boat ramp issue
Harbor Friends Advertisement 5/27/05 (PDF 919KB)
This ad addresses the issue of breakwater height
Harbor Friends Advertisement 5/20/05 (PDF 973KB)
This ad discusses the principles of Harbor Friends
Harbor Friends Advertisement 5/6/05 (PDF 13 MB)
This ad discusses landside impact of a marina
Harbor Friends Advertisement 4/29/05 (PDF 7 MB)
This ad discusses the marina profits, marina control and safe harbor issues
Harbor Friends Advertisement 4/22/05 (PDF 1.8MB)
This ad discusses the marina acreage issue

Contact Us:

Harbor Center
8 North Broadway
Grand Marais, MN 55604
Hours: 10 am - 4 pm Thurs. - Mon.

Harbor Friends
PO Box 1119
Grand Marais MN 55604
218.387.1639
contact@harborfriends.org