MUSKEGON (AP) -- A number of Lake Michigan shipwrecks are now being officially protected and promoted as Michigan's 13th underwater preserve.
The Muskegon Chronicle reports the West Michigan Underwater Preserve recently became official with the filing of paperwork with the state.
The new preserve covers about 345 square miles and features 13 identified shipwrecks and three other diving structures.
It's set for a ribbon-cutting ceremony Sunday at Pere Marquette Park. As part of the event, divers and snorkelers are to enter Lake Michigan after the ribbon is cut.
The preserve covers West Michigan's shoreline from a point between Grand Haven and Holland north to the northern boundary of Ludington State Park.
West Michigan Underwater Preserve board co-chair John Hanson says the shipwrecks represent "maritime history for the whole area."
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