Iron ore shipments on the Great Lakes increased 15 percent to 7.3 million net tons in May, compared to a year ago, according to the Lake Carriers' Association. The association said strong demand and a rising Lake Superior produced the surge. Meanwhile shipments of limestone totaled 4.2 million net tons in May, down 3.4 percent compared to a year ago. The association said the drop in limestone shipments was due to sluggish demand in some markets, but "the dredging crisis was plainly evident. One vessel (and 75 U.S.-flag lakers are in service) lost 15,000 tons of stone in just three trips because of having to light load.?BR> It also said many of the largest ore vessels could also have carried 5,000 tons or more each trip if the Great Lakes were dredged to project dimensions. |
|
|
|
Source: americanshipper.com
|
|