According to local news reports, ArcelorMittal is calling for more federal investment in the Great Lakes to ensure it has clear shipping channels for iron ore and other raw materials it brings by lake freighter to Indiana steel mills. Specifically, the company would like a new lock to replace the 47-year-old one at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.
The Cleveland-based Lake Carriers Association estimates Great Lakes freighters moved 83.3 million tons of cargo last year. That figure included 44.1 million tons of iron ore for steel production.
The Cleveland-based Lake Carriers Association estimates Great Lakes freighters moved 83.3 million tons of cargo last year. That figure included 44.1 million tons of iron ore for steel production.
"These projects are critical to navigation routes for water commerce and the movement of goods," ArcelorMittal Americas Senior Director for Government Relations Tom Dower said in a statement. "Waterborne transportation is safe, efficient and the most environmentally friendly method of transport."
"While recent winters have been relatively mild, we still lose material due to frozen waterways. In 2013-2014, one of the worst winters in recent history, cancelled cargo totaled 7 million tons, costing the U.S. economy 4,000 jobs and $700 million in economic activity," Dower said. "Only the Coast Guard’s Mackinaw is capable of navigating Lake Superior’s severe ice conditions. This underscores the need for Congress to provide crucial funding for maintaining the Mackinaw and securing an additional ice breaker."