Great Lakes traffic: ore up, limestone down

Great Lakes traffic: ore up, limestone down 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.'
   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.