The Thunder Bay Port Authority enjoyed a record year in 2024, with strong shipments of both export and import goods. Despite a challenging incident involving a leaking vessel, the port highlighted the collaborative spirit of the industry.
The Thunder Bay Port Authority had an exciting and prosperous year. Chris Heikkinen, chief executive officer for the Port of Thunder Bay, told Newswatch the port “was really firing on all cylinders” in 2024. “We had really strong shipments of your typical export cargoes of grain and potash and some other dry bulk commodities and also really strong on the import side as well,” Heikkinen said.
“We had good steel levels and good phosphate fertilizer shipments inbound and some interesting cargoes dabbled in there, so, all in all, it's been a really good season.' He highlighted one interesting challenge with a positive outcome in 2024. Back in June, the laker vessel, the Michipicoten, took on water in the middle of Lake Superior. It was carrying iron ore pellets from Two Harbors, Minn. to Algoma Steel in Sault Ste. Marie. The ship limped into the port’s Keefer Terminal where it could be examined. Divers found a four-metre-long crack during their inspection. The ship underwent some repairs at the terminal before it departed for Superior, Wisc. where it remains docked until further repair can be completed. “That was a really interesting challenge that really demonstrated how the industry can come together when there's an emergency situation,” Heikkinen said. He noted that the warmer weather has been beneficial as the port moves into the final two weeks of the season because they “don't need to call in an icebreaker to get the vessels in and out of port.” However, Heikkinen also added that there is some concern that no ice has formed on Lake Superior. “We typically do like to see some ice cover on the Great Lakes over the winter because it does help prevent evaporation and evaporation can lead to lower water levels, which can lead to lower volumes being able to be loaded into the ships for draft restrictions,” he sai
PORT AUTHORITY SHIPPING ECONOMY LAKE SUPERIOR CANADA
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Port of Thunder Bay enjoying 'generational' cargo recordsThe port is seeing cargo volumes that were last achieved about 40 years ago
Read more »
Thunder Bay residents take to the ice this weekendThe City says it is very nice to see a more typical start to the season where they can offer this service through the holidays.
Read more »
Thunder Bay could be a leader says Boulevard Garden advocateThe Boulevard Garden by-law is going back for one more revision before ratification, but advocated would still like to see some more changes.
Read more »
Thunder Bay Holiday Cheer: Dart Tournament and Improv ComedyKick off your holiday week in Thunder Bay with a lively Dart Tournament followed by a special holiday-themed improv performance by Off The Cuff Comedy.
Read more »
Top Thunder Bay News Stories of June 2024This article summarizes the top 10 news stories from Thunder Bay during June 2024. Highlights include a ship striking an object in the harbour, a homicide investigation, a controversial indoor turf facility project, the return of the Thunder Bay Pride Parade, and a strong economic outlook for the city.
Read more »
Thunder Bay Christmas tree chipping program starts soonTree drop-off sites open Boxing Day.
Read more »