About this Unit
Coast Guard Station Jonesport, located in Jonesport, Maine, has played a vital role in maritime safety and security along the Downeast Maine coastline. Established in 1960, the station was built to replace several historic life-saving stations in the region, consolidating their missions of search and rescue, law enforcement, and environmental protection. Over the decades, Coast Guard Station Jonesport has responded to numerous emergencies, including vessel groundings, medical evacuations, and severe weather incidents in the challenging waters of the Gulf of Maine. The station remains a critical asset for the U.S. Coast Guard, supporting both local fishing communities and the broader maritime interests of the United States.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: Coast Guard Station Jonesport was established in 1960 to bolster search and rescue operations and maritime law enforcement along the rugged Downeast Maine coastline.
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Location: The station is strategically located at the entrance to Moosabec Reach, providing critical coverage for the busy fishing grounds and treacherous waters surrounding Jonesport and Beals Island.
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Predecessor Stations: Before the current station, the region was served by Life-Saving Stations at Cross Island (established 1874) and Great Wass Island, reflecting a long-standing federal presence in local maritime safety.
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Rescue Missions: Station Jonesport is credited with numerous daring rescues, including saving the crew of the fishing vessel Linda Lee during a blizzard in 1991, when 50-knot winds and icy conditions threatened disaster.
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Role in Fisheries Enforcement: The station plays a vital role in enforcing federal fishing regulations, helping to protect Maine’s valuable lobster and groundfish stocks from illegal activity.
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Historic Storms: During the infamous “Perfect Storm” of 1991, Station Jonesport crews were on high alert, coordinating with other agencies to provide safety information and respond to emergencies.
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Support to Local Community: The crew regularly participates in community outreach, including safety demonstrations for local fishermen and schoolchildren, fostering strong ties with Jonesport residents.
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Modernization: The station received new 47-foot Motor Lifeboats in the late 1990s, enhancing its all-weather rescue capabilities in notoriously rough seas.
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Winter Operations: Jonesport is one of the few Coast Guard stations that regularly contends with heavy winter ice, requiring specialized training for cold-water rescues and ice navigation.
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Unique Partnership: The station works closely with the Maine Marine Patrol and local volunteer fire departments, forming a crucial network for search and rescue, medical evacuations, and disaster response along Maine’s remote coastline.
