Ghost Ship Removed: Coast Guard Contractor Salvages Abandoned Minesweeper from San Joaquin Delta

 

Ghost Ship Removed: Coast Guard Contractor Salvages Abandoned Minesweeper from San Joaquin Delta

SAN JOAQUIN DELTA, California — A long-abandoned U.S. Navy minesweeper, dubbed a “ghost ship” by locals, has finally been removed from the San Joaquin Delta after years of sitting derelict in the water. The removal was carried out by a Coast Guard–hired marine salvage contractor, ending an environmental and navigational hazard that had concerned authorities for years.

A Ship Stuck in Time

The derelict vessel, believed to have once served in U.S. military operations, had been anchored in the Delta for decades without maintenance. Over time, the ship deteriorated, posing risks to the waterway ecosystem, local boaters, and nearby communities.

Local residents nicknamed it the “ghost ship” because of its decaying hull, peeling paint, and eerie silhouette against the horizon.

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Coast Guard Steps In

After repeated environmental reports and safety warnings, the U.S. Coast Guard authorized a full-scale removal. A specialized marine salvage contractor used cranes, tugboats, and cutting equipment to dismantle the minesweeper and tow it away for safe disposal.

Officials stated that removing the ship was necessary to prevent oil leaks, hazardous material spills, and navigational hazards in the busy San Joaquin Delta.

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Environmental & Safety Win

The San Joaquin Delta is a critical waterway for California’s agriculture, shipping, and fishing industries. Authorities said the removal will protect fish habitats, maintain shipping channels, and prevent further environmental damage.

“This project eliminates a serious hazard and ensures the Delta remains safe for navigation,” a Coast Guard spokesperson said.

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Key Facts About the Removal

• Location: San Joaquin Delta, California

• Vessel Type: Former U.S. Navy minesweeper

• Reason for Removal: Environmental risk, navigational hazard

• Action Taken By: U.S. Coast Guard & marine salvage contractor

• Outcome: Ship dismantled and towed for safe disposal

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Why This Matters for the Community

With the ghost ship gone, boaters and fishermen will enjoy safer waterways, while environmentalists celebrate the removal of a pollutant source. This action also opens up space for cleaner and more productive maritime activity in the Delta.

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Written by: Zamal Uddin