Operator of watercraft #1 initially stated that he was anchored on the Wisconsin side of Lake Pepin with his lights off. After further investigation he stated he was anchored on the Minnesota side of Lake Pepin with his lights on, about 1/2 mile south of the marina. He and his passenger were in the cabin of the watercraft and were about to go to sleep. At about 2330 hours he saw a barge coming from the north using its spotlight for navigation. About 0100 hours he noticed the barge was much closer and still using its spotlight for navigation purposes (he believed). He thought it might be searching for a channel marker. The barge began to approach his watercraft and when he thought it was getting too close, he raised his anchor. He heard the barge sound some type of horn or siren. He started the engine and sounded his horn and sent out a "Mayday" on channels 9 and 21. He gunned his engine to attempt to avoid contact with the barge and the barge made contact with the starboard side of watercraft 1#. Operator #1 managed to move away from the barge, called 911 and headed toward the marina. Officers made contact with Lock and Dam #4 to stop the barge so they could talk to the captain. 

The deputy made contact with the captain of the barge who stated he was southbound on Lake Pepin near Lake City when he noticed a large pleasure craft heading westbound across Lake Pepin. It appeared to be dangerously close. Per policy, he activated his spotlight and shined it on the pleasure craft, which continued to approach the barge. He called his crew members to deck, and blew the horn five times. Watercraft #1 continued to approach. The captain began to maneuver the barge to try to avoid making contact with the pleasure craft. He reversed the engines to create distance between the two craft. He saw the pleasure craft cross in front of the barge and continue westbound. He shined the spotlight on the pleasure craft to look for a name so he could report the incident. He could not see any damage to the vessel. It was not until he got to the lock and dam that he was aware his barge made any contact with the pleasure craft. He stated he would report the incident to his supervisor who would be in contact with the sheriff's office. 

Investigation is pending. Operator of Watercraft #1 was cited for Careless/reckless operation.
Lake City