Great Lakes & Seaway Shipping News Archive

Algoma Central buys another tanker

7/31 - St. Catharines, ON - Algoma Central Corporation has exercised an option through its wholly-owned subsidiary Algoma Tankers Limited, to purchase a second double-hulled petroleum product tanker from MedMarine Group. The vessels are currently under construction in the Eregli Shipyard, Turkey.

The vessels will operate in the Great Lakes - St. Lawrence Waterway and Atlantic Canada regions.

Delivery of the second ship is scheduled for April 2008 at an approximate cost, including an expected 25 percent import duty payment, of $42 million.

Including these two additions, Algoma Tankers Limited will own and manage six Canadian-flagged tanker vessels. The corporation also owns a foreign-flag tanker through a wholly owned foreign subsidiary.

Including this purchase and the purchase announced on June 15, 2007, approximately $190 million has been committed in modernizing the tanker fleet since 2002 and positioning Algoma Tankers to be our customers' first choice in marine transportation.

Algoma Central news release

Port Reports - July 31

Cheboygan - Jon Paul Michaels
The USCGC Mackinaw departed its Cheboygan moorings at 9 a.m. Sunday and headed westbound to attend the Coast Guard Festival in Grand Haven.

Port Haven - Dick Fox
The USCG Icebreaker Mackinaw came into port Monday, followed by the ice breaking tug Neah Bay. They will be here this week for the Coast Guard Festival.

Toronto - Charlie Gibbons
A rare visitor to port, the tug Everlast and barge Norman McLeod were in port Sunday at the McAsphalt dock. This is the first time Everlast has been here since her inaugural ceremony.
Also in and out again on Wednesday was the English River.
Algosteel continued unloading Monday at Redpath.

Marquette - Rod Burdick
Monday evening at the Upper Harbor, Mesabi Miner unloaded coal.

Milwaukee - Paul Erspamer
Monday evening Algoway delivered salt to the bulk cargo dock on Jones Island in Milwaukee's inner harbor.
Ocean bulker Federal Ems was at the General Cargo piers in the outer harbor, unloading onto semi-trailers.
Nearby, saltie Isolda was backed-in at terminal 3 in the outer harbor.
USCGC Alder was docked at the Coast Guard station, just west of the Lake Express ferry.

Ship watchers weigh in on new security fencing

7/31 - St. Catharines - Intrigued by how ships glide through the Welland Canal locks with expert precision, visitors gather on the observation deck of the Welland Canals Centre at Lock 3 and poke their heads between the black iron bars to grab a good look.

But a panoramic view of the marine marvel is a bit more obstructed lately because of the new two-metre security fencing that lines the edge of the canal and the second-storey observation deck. Mandated by Transport Canada as a post-9/11 safety measure, the iron bars and new security cameras are part of a $2-million plan announced by the federal government last November to boost security at Niagara's marine facilities.

The two-metre-high bars replace the 1.3-metre chain-link fences that used to separate people from the canal below.
And come August - pending signs that direct people to the front entrance - visitors will no longer be able to slip through the parking lot side entrance for a quick in-and-out peek.

"There is no way we can regulate who is coming in as far as safety goes," said City of St. Catharines tourism manager Kim Riordon.

The majority of the $750,000 tab for the project was picked up by the federal government, with the St. Lawrence Seaway Authority kicking in $125,000 and the city contributing $26,000, she said.

With the final stages almost complete, Welland Canal ship watchers are weighing in on whether the fence is an obstruction, or necessary precaution. "It was in the way of the view," said Shane Dandy, visiting Friday from Westminster, Mass., with his wife and three kids. "But at the same time," piped in his wife, Emily Dandy, "as a mother of young children, I like the safety factor."

"They're no problem for me," said Dick Mahar, from Conventry, R.I., as he poked his camera carefully through the bars for a photo.

Riordon said she has already received a rash of letters from avid ship watchers who are peeved that the centre no longer boasts an unobstructed view of the action.

Lock 3 is not the only spot that will be under heavier security, Riordon said. There are plans to add fences at Lock 7 in Thorold and canal viewing spots in Port Colborne.

From the St. Catharines Standard

Reservations deadline is tomorrow for Boatnerd Detroit Down River Cruise

On Saturday, August 11, Great Lakes and Seaway Shipping will host a 4-hour freighter chasing cruise on the lower Detroit River, to Detroit River Light, aboard the luxurious Friendship, driven by Capt. Sam Buchanan. The cruise is similar to an Up River cruise that many Boatnerds enjoyed last year.

The cruise leaves the Portofino's On The River restaurant, in Wyandotte, MI at 10:00 am. We'll go down the Detroit River as far as the Detroit River Light, traveling on both the Livingston and Amherstburg Channels. Bring your camera.

All this for only $35.00. Limited to the first 100 reservations. We must have a minimum of 50 paid reservations no later than August 1. Price includes a box lunch. Cash bar on board. Plenty of free, safe parking at Portofino's.

Checks and reservations must be received no later than August 1, 2007. Go to the Boatnerd Gatherings page for all the details and reservation forms. Get your reservation in the mail today!

Updates - July 31

News Photo Gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 31

On this day in 1948, in a total elapsed time of 19 hours, the JAMES DAVIDSON of the Tomlinson fleet unloaded 13,545 tons of coal at the Berwind Dock in Duluth and loaded 14,826 tons of ore at the Allouez Dock in Superior.

On this day in 1955, Al A. Wolf, the first Chief Engineer of a Great Lakes freighter powered by a 7,000 hp engine, retired as Chief Engineer of the WILFRED SYKES. Chief Wolf started as an oiler on the POLYNESIA in 1911, became Chief Engineer in 1921, and brought out the SYKES in 1948.

Sea trials took place for the JAMES R BARKER this day in 1976. She was to become Interlake's first 1000 footer and the flag ship of the fleet for Moore McCormack Leasing, Inc. (Interlake Steamship Co., Cleveland, Ohio, mgr.). She was built at a cost of more than $43 million under Title XI of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970. She was the third thousand footer to sail on the Lakes and the first built entirely on the Lakes.

On July 31, 1974, as the Liberian vessel ARTADI approached the dock at Trois Rivires, Que. where she damaged the docked GORDON C LEITCH's stern.

The CEDARBRANCH was damaged and sunk by an explosion on July 31, 1965, several miles below Montreal, Quebec resulting in a loss of one life. Repaired and lengthened in 1965, she was renamed b.) SECOLA in 1978, and c.) KITO MARU in 1979, and scrapped at Brownsville, Texas in 1985.

On 31 July 1849, ACORN (wooden schooner, 84 foot, 125 tons, built in 1842, at Black River, Ohio) was struck amidships by the propeller TROY near West Sister Island in Lake Erie. She sank quickly, but no lives were lost since all hands made it to the TROY.

On 31 July 1850, AMERICA (wooden side-wheeler, 240 foot, 1,083 tons, built in 1847, at Port Huron, Michigan) suffered a boiler or steam pipe explosion while sailing on Lake Erie. The explosion immediately killed nine persons and scalded others who died later. The vessel was repaired and sailed for three more seasons.

Data from: Jody Aho, Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Russ Plumb, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history tailed history.

Two reported dead in separate accidents near Beauharnois Locks

7/30 - Montreal - It has been reported that that a sailor received fatal injuries in a conveyor belt accident aboard the Algomarine near Valleyfield, Quebec, on Friday. Reports indicated that the crew member was shoveling in the tunnel when the belt started.

A brief article appeared in the French-language newspaper Journal de Montreal on Sunday. The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Quebec Provincial Police.

In a separate accident near the Beauharnois Locks, a female swimmer was reported to have been sucked into the propeller of a vessel on Sunday. Traffic has been stopped in this area of the Seaway while divers search for the body.

The upbound Algontario remained in Lock 3 since noon on Sunday. Flintereems was stopped in Lock 4 since 12:34 p.m.. The saltie Lake Michigan went to anchor about 4:35 p.m. and was joined by Voyageur Independent. Flintereems was downbound and Lake Michigan upbound. Traffic was moving again by midnight Sunday.

Port Report - July 30

Holland - Bob VandeVusse
The Wilfred Sykes returned to Holland Sunday to deliver coal to the James DeYoung power plant. It arrived around 7 a.m. and departed mid-afternoon.

Knowledgeable Mather Staff Terminated

7/30 Cleveland - All three paid staff members of the museum ship William G. Mather have been terminated by the Great Lakes Science Center (GLSC). Economic reasons were cited by the GLSC after only nine months in charge of the Mather operation. The vessel had previously been owned and operated by the Harbor Heritage Society.

The terminated employees were Mather Curator Lou Cinda Holt, Curatorial Assistant Paula Duesing, and Education Director Patrick Lang. These three people were primarily responsible for interpreting the ship and its significance to Cleveland's history.

The volunteer docent program is not expected to be changed by the terminations.

Reported by Rex Cassidy

Great Lakes Science Center faces opposition on walkway
to Steamship William G. Mather Maritime Museum

7/30 - Cleveland - The Great Lakes Science Center wants to build a 400-foot-long link to a floating museum nearby, but city planners fear it could stymie bikers and joggers in the North Coast Harbor.

The Cleveland City Planning Commission approved the idea of a $3.3 million walkway from the science center to the Steamship William G. Mather Maritime Museum. But commissioners said Friday they don't like the science center's walkway design. They want more cut-through space for those on bike and foot.

The science center acquired the Mather last fall, about a year after the retired Great Lakes freighter moved from the East Ninth Street pier to the harbor's west dock. The Mather is open seasonally. A sheltered walkway means the potential for year-round business, making the floating museum more financially viable, center President Linda Abraham-Silver told the commission. The center is planning millions of dollars in new exhibits. Aboard the Mather, ideas include simulating a sea storm and animating the engine room, Abraham-Silver said.

Within the walkway, a 100-foot section with three bays would feature movable windows and doors, allowing foot and bike traffic to move through, architects for the science center said. The walkway would be enclosed during the winter, except for a permanent, 5-foot-wide cut-through.

City planners said the cut-through was way too small. The science center considered a raised walkway, but it would be expensive and block views in the harbor. Planning commission members agreed the science center needs a better design before it gets final approval for the project.

"You're creating a 400-foot glass wall" for bikers and joggers, Marty Cader, the city's bikeway planner, told science center officials.
From the Cleveland Plain Dealer

Updates - July 30

News Photo Gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 30

July 30, 1996 - CSL's self-unloader H M GRIFFITH, which was off Whitefish Bay in Lake Superior, and bound for Nanticoke, Ontario with a load of 22,775 tons of western coal, has a spontaneous combustion fire in her number 2 cargo hold. Water was used to cool the fire and the GRIFFITH used her unloading boom to dump 3,000 tons of coal into Lake Superior. After an inspection by the USCG at the Soo the following day, revealed only minor damage, the vessel was cleared to proceed on her journey. Reconstructed and renamed b.) RT HON PAUL J MARTIN in 2000.

This "News Page" on this site was "launched" in 1996, reporting the coal fire aboard the GRIFFITH.

The GORDON C LEITCH (Hull#36) was launched July 30, 1952, at Midland, Ontario by Canadian Shipbuilding & Engineering Ltd. for the Upper Lakes & St. Lawrence Transportation Co. Ltd., Toronto, Ontario.

The Canadian Coast Guard Ice Breaker C.C.G.S. ALEXANDER HENRY entered service July 30, 1959. Since 1985, the HENRY serves as a museum in Kingston, Ontario.

On 30 July 1871, the 162 foot bark HARVEY BISSELL was carrying lumber from Toledo to Tonawanda, New York. When she was on the Western end of Lake Erie, she sprang a leak. Although the crew worked the hand powered pumps constantly, the water kept gaining at a rate of about a foot an hour. The tug KATE WILLIAMS took her in tow, intending to get her to Detroit to be repaired, but this proved impossible. So the BISSELL was towed close to Point Pelee and allowed to sink in 14 feet of water. The WILLIAMS then left for Detroit to get steam pumps and other salvage equipment. On returning, they pumped out the BISSELL, refloated and repaired her. She lasted until 1905.

On 30 July 1872, the Port Huron Dry Dock launched SANDY, a lighter. Her dimensions were 75 feet x 20 feet x 5 feet.

On 30 July 1873, George Hardison of Detroit announced the beginning of a new shipyard in Port Huron, Michigan. It would be located above the 7th Street Bridge on the Black River on land owned by J. P. Haynes, accessible by River Street. Within 30 days of this announcement, the new yard had orders for two canallers three-and-aft rig for delivery in the Spring of 1874. Their dimensions were to be 146 feet overall, 139 feet keel, 26 foot beam and 11 foot 6 inches depth.

On 30 July 1866, CITY OF BUFFALO (wooden propeller, 340 foot, 2,026 tons, built in 1857, at Buffalo, New York as a side-wheeler) was unloading 72,000 bushels of wheat at the Sturgis Elevator at Buffalo, New York when arsonists set fire to the complex. The fire destroyed the wharf, the elevator, several businesses and the ship. The arsonists were caught. Incidentally, the CITY OF BUFFALO was converted from a passenger side-wheeler to a propeller freighter during the winter of 1863-64. After the conversion, she was dubbed "the slowest steam-craft on the Lakes".

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Lake Huron Lore Society, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history tailed history.

Port Reports - July 29

Goderich - Jacob Smith & Dale Baechler
On Friday night the James Norris was at Sifto Salt mine.
Algoma's Algoway was loading at Sifto on Saturday morning.

Ontonagon - Rod Burdick
On Saturday, John G. Munson delivered coal to the Smurfit-Stone Container Co. on the Ontonagon River. She was drawing only 18 feet of water forward.

Toronto - Clive Reddin & Charlie Gibbons
The saltie Beluga Formation departed late Saturday night for the Welland Canal. The saltie Apollon departed Redpath Sugar early this morning bound down the lake. The Tate & Lyle signs on the Redpath building were removed last week, as ownership of the sugar firm has changed hands.
Stephen B. Roman was also in port on Saturday. Algosteel arrived in Toronto harbour at 12:30 p.m. Saturday. She moored at the south end of the Redpath refinery without the assistance of any tugs.

Alpena & Stoneport - Ben & Chanda McClain
The Alpena returned to port during the early evening hours of a beautiful Saturday.
The H. Lee White was loading at Stoneport on Saturday. Also due before midnight was the tug Olive L. Moore and barge Lewis J. Kuber.

Saginaw River - Todd Shorkey
Tugs and barges have been the plentiful this week on the Saginaw River. The tug Rebecca Lynn and her tank barge were inbound, calling on the Bit-Mat dock in Bay City on Thursday.
On Friday the tug Karen Andrie and her tank barge called on the SEM Materials dock in Essexville.
Also inbound on Friday was the Indiana Harbor who unloaded coal at the Consumers Energy dock in Essexville.
Saturday saw the arrival of the tug Donald C. Hannah and her tank barge. The pair called on the Dow Chemical dock in Bay City.

Buffalo - Brian Wroblewski
The canal schooner/barge Lois McClure was tied up at the Visiting Ship's Dock along the Erie Basin on the weekend of the 28th and 29th. Her assist tug C. L. Churchill was made up on the hip alongside her Starboard Quarter. She is a mid-1800's style canal freighter similar to those seen around Buffalo Harbor in olden times. The McClure's design was considered a "Hybrid" of sorts since she could be pulled by mule, pushed by a tug, or operate under sail power depending on whatever waterway she was navigating through. The McClure has an interesting set of ship handling equipment aboard including a retractable Keelson built into the hull and a rope and tackle type steering gear. Although small, the boat makes for an interesting visit since she's loaded with historic information to learn about and well worth stopping by to see. The boat's hull form looks similar to what we know today as a Great Lakes Freighter. Her rounded bow and long lines were made for maximum cargo efficiency in the lock chambers of the day. More modern laker boats and barges still follow this same design philosophy and the overall shape between then and now is very similar. The Firetug Cotter was moored nearby and also open for tours. Hours of operation were 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days. More information is available at: www.lcmm.org for info on the McClure and www.emcotter.com.

Updates - July 29

News Photo Gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 29

The OTTERCLIFFE HALL cleared Lauzon, Quebec July 29, 1969, on her maiden voyage as the last "straight deck" Great Lakes bulk freighter built with a pilot house forward.

While at the Manitowoc Ship Building Co. for general repairs and engine overhaul, the CITY OF SAGINAW 31 caught fire on July 29, 1971, destroying her cabin deck and rendering her useless for further use. The blaze was caused by an acetylene torch, and caused over $1 million in damage.. She was not repaired. The CITY OF SAGINAW 31 was sold to Marine Salvage Ltd., Port Colborne, Ontario for scrapping.

On July 29, 1974, the W W HOLLOWAY grounded in Lake St. Clair off the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club running downbound with stone. Lightering into the J F SCHOELKOPF JR was necessary before she was freed by four tugs on July 31st.

ENDERS M VOORHEES departed Great Lakes Engineering Works, River Rouge, Michigan on her maiden voyage July 29, 1942, bound for Duluth, Minnesota to load iron ore. She was the second of five "Supers" for the Pittsburgh fleet to enter service.

July 29, 1974 - The PERE MARQUETTE 21 was towed to Milwaukee, Wisconsin to be reduced to a barge.

The steam barge MARY ROBERTSON burned near Mackinac on 29 July 1872. Her crew escaped to a schooner-barge they were towing.

The MATERIAL SERVICE foundered in a heavy summer gale in 1936, off the South Chicago lighthouse. She was a canal motor barge not designed for open-lake use.

The side-wheel river steamer DOMINION burned to the water's edge at her dock in the Thames River near Chatham, Ontario on 29 July 1875. She was built in 1867, at Wallaceburg, Ontario.

Data from: Jerry Pearson, Max Hanley, Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history tailed history.

Mackinaw Bridge closes for fireworks, parades during celebration

7/28 - Mackinaw City - Last minute details in place, the Mackinac Bridge Authority is ready for Saturday's re-dedication events to observe the 50th anniversary of the Mighty Mac.

The celebration will involve parades in St. Ignace, across the bridge and in Mackinaw City and a fireworks display that will take place simultaneously from both sides of the bridge and from Mackinac Island.

The Bridge Authority has announced temporary closures of the bridge to occur during two segments of the festivities - the parade and the fireworks - both on Saturday. Northbound lanes will be closed from approximately 11:45 a.m. until 11:55 a.m. and southbound lanes will be closed from approximately 11:50 a.m. until noon for the special parade crossing, to feature 50 vintage automobiles representing the 50 years that the bridge has been open.

In addition, all lanes will be closed from 10:20 p.m. until 11 p.m. for the fireworks display. If necessary, emergency vehicles will be able to cross during the closures, a bridge official said. During the fireworks, many entities will work to afford visitors the best possible views of the fireworks.

Round-trip shuttle bus service will be provided from the St. Ignace Convention Center at Little Bear East Arena to Bridge View Park between 11:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Saturday for a $2 fee. All three ferryboat lines will offer runs to coincide with the fireworks displays, departing from Mackinaw City, St. Ignace and Mackinac Island. Colonial Michilimackinac will open to visitors who want to see the fireworks from outside the fort for $3.

Police agencies on both sides of the Straits of Mackinac are bracing for crowds predicted to exceed the July 4 celebration and the St. Ignace Antique Auto Show rolled into one event.

Mackinac Bridge Authority officials also have reminded pilots of strict Federal Aviation Administration rules regarding flights near Mackinac Bridge, prohibiting aircraft from flying under or within 500 feet of the five-mile span. Because of two recent incidents, bridge officials are concerned that others may attempt similar flights in the near future.

“The safety of our crews and the motorists are of the utmost importance at all times,” said Operations Supervisor Dean Steiner. “We go to great lengths to protect the bridge and inform the traveling public that it is completely safe to cross the bridge. In this case, we want to raise awareness to eliminate any aircraft activity in close proximity of the bridge.”

Bridge Authority officials are working closely with the FAA in investigating the recent incidents. Maximum penalties are possible for flying within 500 feet of the structure or under it.

By Mike Fornes for the Cheboygan Daily Tribune

Port Reports - July 28

Hamilton - Gerry O.
Evans McKeil departed Rochester this afternoon for Hamilton to drydock Metis at Heddle Marine Services, for inspection and any necessary repairs. They are expected to return to service in a week's time.

Soo - Jerry Masson
Friday's upbound traffic included Lee A. Tregurtha, Presque Isle, John G. Munson, American Victory, tug Sandra Mary & barges, John B. Aird and American Republic.
Downbound were Spruceglen, CSL Tadoussac, Algolake, Algoisle, Edwin H. Gott, Herbert C. Jackson, Indiana Harbor, Stewart J. Cort and Canadian Miner.

Manitowoc - Charlie
The Saginaw returned to Manitowoc Friday, unloading at Budweiser's grain elevator. She'll be leaving sometime Saturday.

Funds in place for Rochester dredging, pier work
$1.6M secured for clogged river channel at port, other problems.

7/28 - Rochester, NY - Money is on the way for repairs to the pier adjacent to Ontario Beach Park and for extensive dredging of the silt-filled river channel at the Port of Rochester. But the work won't be done until next summer, officials said.

Rep. Louise M. Slaughter, D-Fairport, announced Thursday that $1.6 million in federal funds had been secured for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Most of the money will go toward dredging, funding a more extensive operation than previously planned.

"The Rochester waterfront is an enormous regional asset," Slaughter, chairwoman of the House Rules Committee, said in a statement. "Maintaining this infrastructure is critical whether you fish, boat, visit the summer festivals, enjoy the park concerts or just walk the pier."

The Corps last dredged the Genesee River channel near Lake Ontario in 2004. A recent survey found the water depths had decreased as much as 3 feet in the past year. Shallow waters caused the Stephen B. Roman, a cement boat and the only freighter still in operation on the river, to run aground in March.

Meanwhile, concrete spalling and broken cables along the west pier at the river's mouth have raised concern from Mayor Robert Duffy and others in recent months. Corps spokesman Bruce Sanders said the pier is not meant as a pedestrian attraction but there are no plans to close it, pending repairs.

Money for the port area will come out of the fiscal year 2008 Energy and Water Appropriations Bill, passed by the House earlier this month. Last month, Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., announced $10,000 to monitor and track the number of recreational visitors to the west pier.

Reported by Tom Brewer from the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle

Cleveland-Cliffs posts record second quarter

7/28 - Duluth - Improved iron ore pellet pricing and sales helped Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. reach a record $547.6 million in revenue in the second quarter.

It was another impressive quarter for the iron ore supplier that holds ownership and manages three iron ore mines in Minnesota and two in Michigan. Last year, Cleveland-Cliffs recorded $486.2 million in revenue during the second quarter.

“In addition to delivering solid results in the quarter, we continued to increase our presence as a global mining company with a definitive agreement to acquire PinnOak Resources LLC, including its three metallurgical coal mines, as well as an agreement with QCoal for a 45 percent economic interest in the Sonoma Coal Project in Australia,” said Joseph Carrabba, Cleveland-Cliffs’ chairman, president and chief executive officer. “Our North American franchise remains a strong core for the business as we continue to execute our strategy to diversify products and Cliffs’ geographical reach.”

The company also holds majority ownership in an Australian iron ore operation.

Sales of iron ore pellets in North America during the quarter were 5.4 million tons, an 11 percent increase compared to 4.9 million tons in the second quarter of 2006. North American revenues were up 10 percent to $359.8 million, compared with $327.9 million last year. Sales margins were up 3 percent to $104.4 million. Iron ore pellet production at Cliffs’ North American plants was 9.5 million tons in the quarter. Last year, second quarter production was 8.6 million tons.

The Tilden Mine in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula topped all Cliffs’ mines in the quarter with 2.3 million tons of iron ore pellets. Hibbing Taconite produced 2.1 million tons; Northshore Mining Co., 1.3 million tons; and United Taconite, 1.4 million tons. Construction is under way at Northshore Mining Co. in Silver Bay to restart an idled pellet furnace. Beginning in 2008, the additional furnace would boost production by 800,000 tons annually.

Company officials say its North American mines are projected to run near or at capacity through 2007, producing about 35 million tons of iron ore pellets.

Strong domestic demand, continued consolidation within the U.S. steel industry and growth in Asian steel production are forecast, which would be favorable for Cleveland-Cliffs, Carrabba said. Operating revenue for the second quarter slipped to $115.9 million, compared with $116.4 million in 2006, primarily because of additional expenses for current and future growth.

Reported by Al Miller from the Duluth News Tribune

Updates - July 28

News Photo Gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 28

ALGOWEST passed Detroit downbound on July 28, 1982, she had departed on her maiden voyage July 26, from Thunder Bay, Ontario to Quebec City with a 27,308 ton load of barley.

On July 28, 1973, the ROGER M KYES (Hull#200) was christened at Toledo, Ohio by American Ship Building Co. by Mrs. Roger Kyes for the American Steamship Co. Renamed b.) ADAM E CORNELIUS in 1989.

B A PEERLESS (Hull#148) was launched July 28, 1952, at Collingwood, Ontario by Collingwood Shipyards Ltd. for British American Transportation Co. Ltd. Renamed b.) GULF CANADA in 1969, and c.) COASTAL CANADA in 1984.

The JOHN T HUTCHINSON was delivered on July 28th to the Buckeye Steamship Co. (Hutchinson & Co., mgr.), Cleveland. The JOHN T HUTCHINSON was part of a government program designed to upgrade and increase the capacity of the U.S. Great Lakes fleet during World War II. In order to help finance the building of new ships, the U.S.M.C. authorized a program that would allow existing fleets to obtain new boats by trading in their older boats to the Government for credit. The JOHN T HUTCHINSON was the ninth Maritimer and fourth of the six L6-S-Al types delivered. "L6" meant the vessel was built for the Great Lakes and was 600 to 699 feet in length. The "S" stood for steam power and "Al" identified specific design features.

On 28 July 1854, BOSTON (wooden propeller, 134 foot, 259 tons, built in 1847, at Ohio City, Ohio) was bound from Chicago for Ogdensburg, New York with pork, corn, whiskey and produce. On Lake Ontario, about 20 miles off Oak Orchard, New York, she collided with the bark PLYMOUTH and sank in about 20 minutes. No lives were lost. The crew and passengers made it to shore in three lifeboats. The boat that the captain was in sailed 50 miles to Charlotte, New York.

In 1900, the freighter PRINCETON (Hull#302) was launched at Lorain, Ohio by American Ship Building Co. for the Pittsburgh Steamship Co.

On 28 July 1862, CONVOY (2-mast wooden schooner, 130 foot, 367 tons, built in 1855, at Buffalo, New York) was sailing down bound on a dark night on Lake Erie with 18,000 bushels of wheat when she collided with the empty bark SAM WARD and sank quickly in 12 fathoms of water. Her wreck drifted along the bottom and during the shipping season several vessels collided with her.

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history tailed history.

Brig Niagara to visit Toledo to benefit S. S. Willis B. Boyer

7/27 - Toledo - The U.S. Brig Niagara will be sailing into Toledo, under full sail (weather permitting), on Friday, July 27, at approximately 4 p.m. and mooring at International Park. Along with the arrival of the Niagara there will be a yacht parade, an exchange of gun salutes with Fort Meigs cannoneers, and an official welcome at dockside.

The Niagara will be open for tours Saturday, July 28th from 9:00 am-4:45 pm with the gangway closing at 4:15 pm, and also on Sunday, July 29th from 9:30 pm-5:30 pm with the gangway closing at 5:00 pm. The Museum Ship Willis B. Boyer will also be open for tours both days.

Cost to tour the Niagara for adults and children over 12 is $6, children under 12 $5, and children 5 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. To tour the Boyer the same day, add $3.

Also in Saturday there will be a concert on the deck of the Boyer starting at 8:00 pm, featuring the Toledo Concert Band. The program includes Stars and Stripes Forever and other patriotic favorites. The concert ends at sunset with a Naval Ceremony of Colors.

The Brig Niagara will depart Toledo, Sunday evening or Monday morning.

Proceeds will benefit the S.S. Willis B. Boyer Museum Ship.

S. S. Boyer news release

Port Reports - July 27

Grand Haven - Dick Fox
The St. Mary's Conquest and tug Susan W. Hannaharrived overnight Wednesday with a load of cement for the St. Mary's Cement Terminal in Ferrysburg.

Soo - Jerry Masson
Upbound traffic on Thursday included Algosar, Burns Harbor, Tug Mike J, American Courage, Drummond Islander II & barge, and Herbert C Jackson from Algoma.
Downbound was Saginaw, Sailing ship Nina, Frontenac, Buffalo, and Michipicoten.

Marquette - Rod Burdick
On Wednesday the Paul R. Tregurtha made one of her uncommon visits to the Upper Harbor. She unloaded western coal from Superior and departed around 5 p.m. headed back to Superior.

Buffalo - Brian Wroblewski
The John J Boland departed Lackawanna and was upbound on the lake at 8 p.m. Thursday

Toronto - Charlie Gibbons
Late Wednesday night the salty Beluga Formation arrived in port with wind turbine parts. She was unloading Thursday at Pier 52 south.

Kingsville - Eric Zuschlag
The Mississagi paid a late night visit Thursday to the small harbour town of Kingsville Ontario. She was unloading gravel.

Twin Ports - Al Miller
The DMIR/CN ore dock in Duluth was busy Thursday as it loaded Great Lakes Trader and Charles M. Beeghly at the same time.
After the GLT left in early afternoon, the James R. Barker slid into the dock to load.
On Friday morning, the Twin Ports were busy with Vancouverborg at General Mills elevator in Duluth, BBC Plata loading at the CHS gallery in Superior, CSL Assiniboine at Midwest Energy Terminal and Adam E. Cornelius loading at General Mills S elevator in Superior.

CCGS Amundsen departs on a 15-month scientific mission

7/27 - Quebec City - The Canadian Research Icebreaker Amundsen departed Quebec City Coast Guard base on Thursday for a 15 months scientific mission in the high Canadian Arctic including the Northwest Passage.

Jointly with ArcticNet, a scientific network of universities headed by Dr Louis Fortier of Universite Laval in Quebec City, as many as 400 researchers will, at different times, study mainly the effects of global warming in the Arctic including wildlife, marine navigation, weather, the Innuit population, ect.

For short periods, school children from fourteen countries will board the ship to witness the work performed.

The CCGS Amundsen is crewed by a compliment of 40 crew members. Crew changes will take place in the High Arctic by plane. The ship will spend the next winter in Arctic waters.

Two Captains will share the command of the Amundsen at different times one of which will be Captain Lise Marchand, the first women to command a Canadian Icebreaker in the Arctic. The other Captain is Stephane Julien. Captain Marchand was in command of the Amundsen on departure.

Other interesting stats....Once the mission completed, the Amundsen will have sailed 50,000 kilometers, used 50 tons of food and served 120,000 meals.

Reported by Frederick Frechette

Updates - July 27

News Photo Gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 27

On 27 July 1884, ALBERTA (steel propeller passenger/package freight vessel, 264 foot, 2,282 gross tons, built in 1883, at Whiteinch, Scotland by C. Connell & Co.) collided in fog 6 miles North North West of Whitefish Point on Lake Superior with the JOHN M OSBORNE (wooden propeller "steam barge", 178 foot, 891 tons , built in 1882, at Marine City, Michigan. The OSBORNE had two barges in tow at the time. ALBERTA stayed in the gash until most of OSBORNE's crew scrambled aboard, then pulled out and the OSBORNE sank. ALBERTA sank in shallow water, 3 1/2 miles from shore. 3 or 4 lives were lost from the OSBORNE, one from ALBERTA in brave rescue attempt while trying to get the crewmen off the OSBORNE.

This was ALBERTA's first year of service. She was recovered and repaired soon afterward. She was the sister of the ill fated ALGOMA which was lost in her first year of service. The wreck of the OSBORNE was located in 1984, 100 years after this incident.

On 27 July 1900, the steel freighter RENSSELAER (Hull#402) was launched in Cleveland, Ohio by the American Ship building Co. for the Pittsburgh Steamship Company.

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history tailed history.

Box detonated contained depth measurement device

7/26 - Toledo - The box that caused stoppage of trains, boats, and street traffic and evacuation of homes in the area of Norfolk Southern railroad bridge over the Maumee River near downtown Toledo last night contained a depth measurement device, police said.

Authorities yesterday blew up a box found on a Norfolk Southern railroad bridge over the Maumee River near downtown Toledo. The box has to do with the dredging of the Maumee River near the downtown, Sgt. Charles Nearhood, of the Toledo police bomb squad, said.

The box, about 2 feet by 1 foot, was chained to a bridge pier and had wires that dropped about 20 feet into the water, Toledo Police Lt. George Kral said.

After detonating the device and determining it to be harmless, authorities surmised it was a research tool to measure the temperature and depth of the Maumee River. But they didn't know to whom it belonged.

"A blue box chained to a railroad bridge in the middle of the water just didn't look like it was supposed to be there," Lieutenant Kral said.

Before anyone else places any other devices near a railroad bridge, "it would probably be a wise idea to notify the railroad," agreed Scott Wilson, an FBI spokesman.

About 10 people were evacuated from the Starboard Side condominiums for about an hour. The railroad was closed for nearly four hours, delaying at least three trains, while the river was closed to boats for about three hours. Miami Street was closed for about 30 minutes.

Along with Toledo police and the FBI, the Northwest Ohio Bomb Squad and the U.S. Coast Guard went to the scene.

From the Toledo Blade

Port Reports - July 26

Goderich - Dale Baechler
Canadian Transfer backed into the harbour on Wednesday afternoon and loaded at the Sifto Salt dock. She was on the dock and loading at 2:30 p.m.

Marquette - Rod Burdick
Wednesday at the Upper Harbor ore dock, American Mariner loaded taconite. Once a regular visitor, the trip was her first to Marquette in 2007.

Holland - Bob VandeVusse
The Wilfred Sykes arrived in Holland at about 7 a.m. on Wednesday and proceeded to the Brewer dock with a load of stone. It completed the unload and departed at about noon.

Alpena - Ben & Chanda McClain
The tug G.L Ostrander and barge Integrity arrived in port Tuesday evening to load under the silos at Lafarge.
On Wednesday the Alpena came in at about 1:30 p.m. It loaded cement for Green Bay, WI. The Alpena was out bound in the bay at 5 p.m. and passed the St. Mary's Challenger that was heading in.
The St. Mary's Challenger made the Lafarge dock around 6:30 p.m. and proceeded to take on cargo under the silos. The Challenger is a rare visitor to the area.
The tug Samuel de Champlain and barge Innovation is expected in on Thursday morning, after the Challenger departs.

Toronto - Charlie Gibbons
Spirit of Nantucket was in on Monday and spent the night. She departed Tuesday afternoon.
Tuesday night saw the arrival of the salty Apollon at Redpath Sugar, assisted by the Groupe Ocean tugs from Hamilton. It is the first time this salty has visited Toronto. Wednesday afternoon Hamilton Energy came in and bunkered her for a couple of hours before returning to Hamilton.
Also in port early Wednesday morning is the Toronto based tug M. R. Kane, back from the Aquarama delivery to Trois Rivieres.

Tug crew rescues dog

7/26 - Toronto - On Monday morning, the crew of the Toronto Port Authority's tug William Rest rescued Jewel, a golden retriever, from the Eastern Gap in Toronto.

Jewel swam away from her owners at Cherry Beach and proceeded into the busy Eastern Gap, the main shipping channel into Toronto Harbour.

While it appeared she was on a collision course with the tug, which was pushing a barge in the opposite direction, both manged to avoid each other. Jewel continued on her swim but fortunately the crew of the tug spotted her and turned around to attempt to rescue her.

After skillfully maneuvering the tug and barge, the crew managed to pull her aboard. She was put ashore and delivered to her grateful and very relieved owners who will be extra careful next time she goes swimming at Cherry Beach.

Reported by Bill Bird

Regulation proposed to close Ontario's coal-fired power plants

7/26 - Toronto - The current provincial government of Ontario has proposed a new regulation that would force the closure of Ontario's four coal-fired power plants by the end of 2014.

Two of those plants - the Nanticoke and Lambton generating stations - are two large customers of the Great Lakes shipping industry. Both Canadian and U.S. flag lakers move coal to these two plants.

The proposed regulation is open to public comment until August 11, 2007.

Additional information is available at the following website: www.ebr.gov.on.ca. Enter the number 010-0945 in the search box.

Updates - July 26

News Photo Gallery updated

Special 2007 Boatnerd Trip Raffle Winners gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 26

On June 26, 2005, the salty ORLA ran aground at Kahnawake, Quebec and the passing rum tanker JO SPIRIT made contact with her. Both vessels were damaged and repaired in Montreal.

The ALGOWEST sailed on her maiden voyage in 1982 from Thunder Bay, Ontario to Quebec City with a 27,308 ton load of barley.

On July 26, 1943 the BRUCE HUDSON caught fire while loading gasoline at East Chicago, Illinois and four persons lost their lives.

The CONALLISON departed Windsor, Ontario on her first trip for Johnstone Shipping Ltd. on July 26, 1981.

WILLIAM A McGONAGLE (Hull#154) sailed light on her maiden voyage from Great Lakes Engineering Works at Ecorse, Michigan on July 26, 1916, to Duluth, Minnesota to load iron ore. Renamed b.) HENRY STEINBRENNER in 1986. She was scrapped at Port Maitland, Ontario in 1994.

On 26 July 1885, ISLE ROYALE (wooden propeller passenger/package freight vessel, 92 foot, 92 gross tons, built in 1879) sprang a leak near Susick Island near Isle Royale on Lake Superior. She sank but her passengers and crew made it to the island. She was owned by Cooley, Lavague & Company of Duluth. She was originally built as the barge AGNES.

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history tailed history.

Coast Guard rescues woman from sailing vessel

7/25 - Charlevoix, Mi - The Coast Guard evacuated a woman with a broken wrist from a sailing vessel near Grays Reef at approximately 11:30 a.m. Tuesday.

The 43-year-old woman broke her wrist while moving about the deck of a 45-foot sailing vessel.

She was rescued by a 25-foot response boat from Station Charlevoix and transferred to awaiting Emergency Medical Services on shore.

She was taken to Northern Michigan Hospital and was listed in stable condition.

USCG News Release

Port Reports - July 25

Soo - Jerry Masson
Tuesdays upbound traffic included Algoisle, Joyce L VanEnkevort, Algolake, BBC Plata, CSL Tadoussac, Michipicoten, American Mariner, James R Barker, American Fortitude, Edwin H Gott, Stewart J Cort, and Atlantic Huron.
Downbound were H. Lee White, USCGC Alder, Reliance, Kaye E Barker, American Victory, Beluga Constitution and Alpena.

Milwaukee - Paul Erspamer
The tug Undaunted and barge Pere Marquette 41 spent Tuesday delivering riprap stone for use in dock construction in Milwaukee's outer harbor, just outboard of the Lake Express ferry and the Coast Guard station.

Saginaw River - Todd Shorkey
The tug Olive L. Moore & barge Lewis J. Kuber were in bound the Saginaw River on Friday with a split load. After lightering at the Essexville Sargent dock, the pair continued up river to the Sargent dock in Zilwaukee to finish. They were out bound early on Saturday.
The tug Shenandoah was also in bound stopping at the Dow Chemical dock in Bay City. There, she picked up a barge left by the Great Lakes Dock & Materials company after the Sixth Street turning basin project last season and then headed out for the lake.
On Saturday morning, the Lee A. Tregurtha called on the Consumers Energy dock in Essexville to unload coal. The Lee A. Tregurtha backed away from the dock Saturday afternoon, turning at Light 12 and heading for the lake.
The Calumet was also in bound calling on the Buena Vista dock in Saginaw. She was out bound early Sunday morning.
In bound early Sunday morning was the Indiana Harbor, who called on the Consumers Energy dock in Essexville with another load of coal. She backed from the dock and was out bound for Light 12 later in the day.
Monday morning saw the CSL Tadoussac call on the Essroc Dock in Essexville. Toward the end of her unload, she shifted forward on the dock to allow the in bound Olive Moore/Lewis Kuber to have enough room to back into the Bay Aggregates slip directly across the river from Essroc. Both vessels completed their unloads and were out bound for the lake later on Monday.
Finally, the James Norris made her first visit of 2007 to the Saginaw River. She called on the GM dock in Saginaw on Monday and was out bound for the lake early Tuesday.

Sarnia - Henry Gorton
The CSL Assiniboine left Sarnia around 8 p.m. Tuesday after completing repairs to her bow thruster. She was heading to Superior to load coal for New Brunswick.

Updates - July 25

News Photo Gallery updated

Special 2007 Boatnerd Trip Raffle Winners gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 25

July 25, 1991 - The sixteen-man crew of the ocean-going tug PACIFIC TIDE NO 3 were arrested at Montreal on charges of smuggling drugs. The tug had arrived from the Philippines to tow the damaged Spanish vessel MILANOS to Spain.

Algoma Central Marine's former ALGOCEN departed Montreal on July 25, 2005, under tow of the tugs ATLANTIC OAK and ANDRE H bound for Keasby, New Jersey. She was renamed b.) VALGOCEN and was registered in Panama.

The bow section of the ROGER BLOUGH (Hull#900) was floated into the new American Ship Building Co. Lorain dry dock on July 25, 1970, and was joined with the 421 foot stern section. The launch of the completed hull was scheduled for July, 1971, but a fire broke out in the engine room on June 24, 1971, killing four yard workers and extensively damaging her Pielstick diesel engines. Extensive repairs, which included replacement of both engines, delayed the launch for nearly a year.

The CANADA MARQUIS was upbound at Detroit, Michigan on July 25, 1983, on her maiden voyage for Misener Holdings Ltd. She sails today as CSL's e.) BIRCHGLEN.

July 25, 1983 - A wedding was held aboard the BADGER during the sailing of "Love Boat II". Chris Gebhart and Pat Sroka of Ludington were married by Rev. John Christensen.

The wooden lumber tug CYGNET, which worked on the Shiawassee and Bad Rivers and Lake Huron, was destroyed when her boiler exploded in "Blow-up Bayou" on the Shiawassee River.

The wooden bulk freighter D C WHITNEY was launched at Langell's shipyard in St. Clair, Michigan on 25 July 1882. Her dimensions were 229 feet x 40 feet x15 feet, 1090 gross tons.

Data from: Max Hanley, Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Lake Huron Lore Society, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history.

Port Reports - July 24

Sarnia - Henry Gorton
The CSL Assiniboine pulled into the north slip on Monday afternoon for repairs to her bow thruster. Repairs are expected to take 24-36 hours.

Grand Haven - Dick Fox
The Wilfred Sykes came in stern first at 8 a.m. Sunday morning. It sounded the traditional salute as it crossed the pier heads. It unloaded and was gone by mid afternoon.

Soo - Jerry Masson
Mondays upbound traffic included Frontenac, American Valor, Saginaw from Algoma, tug LaComo and barge and the tug Sandra Mary and barge.
Downbound were the American Century, Lee A. Tregurtha, Canadian Progress, Philip R Clarke, Joseph H Thompson, American Integrity, Mesabi Miner and USCGC Alder.

Goderich - Dale Baechler
Algomarine arrived early Monday morning and loaded at the Sifto Salt dock.
The tug Donald C. Hannah and barge Robert F. Deegan departed Monday morning after discharging a load of calcium at the new harbour dock. She had arrived Sunday at noon.

Marquette - Rod Burdick
Monday evening at the Upper Harbor the H. Lee White loaded ore and Kaye E. Barker arrived to unload coal.

Britt - Fred Holmes
The Algosar left Britt, Ontario Tuesday morning clearing the junction at 7:15 a.m. Compared to prior years she appeared to be drawing 18-feet, about 3-feet less due to lowering water levels.

Great Lakes Shipyard Delivers Bridge Pontoon

7/24 - Cleveland - Great Lakes Shipyard, a division of The Great Lakes Group, announced today that it had fabricated and delivered a "bridge pontoon" to New York New Jersey Rail LLC (“NYNJR”), New York City’s only rail car float business serving the New York-New Jersey Region.

The bridge pontoon is a unique maritime rail component of New York New Jersey Rail’s infrastructure rehabilitation program, and acts as a floatation chamber to support an active rail bridge located on the Brooklyn, New York waterfront.

The bridge pontoon was constructed at Great Lakes Shipyard’s new state-of-the-art facilities on the South Bank of the Old River Channel in two (2) modules and was transported by truck to the Cleveland-Cuyahoga Port Authority docks where it was loaded onto a train for delivery to Brooklyn, NY.

NYNJR is part of the national transportation rail system and moves rail freight by rail barge across NY Harbor between Brooklyn, New York and Jersey City, New Jersey. NYNJR carries a wide range of goods to include Food & Consumer goods, Recyclables, Building Materials, Scrap, Brick, Lumber, Plastic, and Large Steel Beams.

As part of an infrastructure rehabilitation program, NYNJR selected Great Lakes Shipyard to construct the "bridge pontoon”. NYNJR Managing Director James Cornell said “After a thorough source selection process, only Great Lakes Shipyard, a new state-of-the art fabrication facility, was able to manufacture and deliver this critical replacement for our infrastructure in record time and to our satisfaction. We look forward to the new floatation chambers deployment and sea-trials to test the durability of this design. One of our top priorities has been the rehabilitation of this important and unique marine rail route and increase the reliability and safety of our operation for our trans-harbor railcar freight operations in the Ports of New York and New Jersey.”

The Great Lakes Group of transportation companies have been in Cleveland since the turn of the 19th century. Recently, the Cleveland-based Company decided to build a new fabrication and repair facility for the construction of unique custom-designed sectional and truckable barge units such as the bridge pontoon, and for tugboat construction.

Great Lakes Group news release

Updates - July 24

News Photo Gallery updated

Special 2007 Boatnerd Trip Raffle Winners gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 24

On July 24, 1980, 34 ships were delayed when the BALTIC SKOU, a 595 foot Danish-flag freighter built in 1977, ran aground after losing power three miles east of the Snell Lock, near Massena, New York. The ship, loaded with sunflower seeds, was headed for Montreal and the Atlantic Ocean when the grounding occurred. No injuries or pollution resulted from the accident and the vessel did not take on any water.

The ALGOSOO (Hull#206) was launched July 24, 1974, at Collingwood, Ontario by Collingwood Shipyards Ltd. for Algoma Central Railway, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

The BURNS HARBOR sea trials were conducted on July 24, 1980, during which she performed an emergency stop in 3,160 feet loaded to a depth of 25/26 feet. She was the third thousand footer built for Bethlehem and the tenth on the Great Lakes.

ST CLAIR (Hull#714) was launched July 24, 1975, at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin by Bay Shipbuilding Corp. for the American Steamship Co.

The WILLIAM G MATHER, left River Rouge, Michigan on her maiden voyage July 24, 1925, for Ashtabula, Ohio to load coal for the Canadian Lakehead at Port Arthur/Fort William, Ontario.

The wooden steamer OSCAR TOWNSEND was launched at 2:20 p.m. at E. Fitzgerald's yard in Port Huron on 24 July 1873. The launch went well with a few hundred spectators. She was built for use in the iron ore trade by the Lake Superior Transportation Co. Her dimensions were 210 feet overall, 200 foot keel, 33 foot 10 inches beam and 15 foot depth. She had three masts and was painted deep green.

On 24 July 1847, CONSTITUTION (wooden passenger/package freight side-wheeler, 141 foot, 444 tons, built in 1837, at Charleston, Ohio) struck a pier in Sandusky harbor, stove a large hole in her bow and sank. Her machinery was later recovered and installed in J D MORTON.

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history tailed history.

Port Reports - July 23

Milwaukee - John N. & Leah K. Vogel and Paul Erspamer
Late Sunday morning the Voyageur Independent (Voyageur Marine Transport, Ltd., Ridgeville, Ontario) was loading at the Nidera Elevator.
The tug Samuel de Champlain and barge Innovation were unloading at the LaFarge elevator.
The BBC Plata continued to unload windmill gearbox assemblies in the outer harbor at General Cargo Pier #2, .
Innovation and its tug Samuel de Champlain unloaded at the LaFarge terminal on Jones Island in Milwaukee's inner harbor on Sunday.
Sunday evening at about 10 p.m. the St. Marys Challenger passed the Milwaukee main entrance light (watched by thousands awaiting fireworks over the harbor) proceeding upriver to its silo on Kinnickinnic Avenue.
John J. Boland delivered coal at the WE Energies dock at Greenfield Avenue in Milwaukee's inner harbor Monday morning.

Buffalo - Brian Wroblewski
The tug Karen Andrie and barge A-397 departed Buffalo and were on their way up the lake at 9 a.m. Sunday morning.
The Spirit of Nantucket (Ex-Nantucket Clipper) had departed by 9 a.m. Sunday morning.

Toronto - Charlie Gibbons
Slow weekend in Toronto. The border patrol vessel Simmonds was out and in again Sunday afternoon.

Marquette - Rod Burdick & Lee Rowe
Sunday evening at the Upper Harbor ore dock, Lee A. Tregurtha and Saginaw arrived to load taconite. The Lee A. carried the Boatnerds who won the Boatnerd.com raffle trip. They reported that they are having the time of their lives.

Alpena/Stoneport - Ben & Chanda McClain
The Alpena was in port on Friday loading for Superior, WI. It was seen heading out onto the horizon after 10 p.m., while another vessel looked to be coming in, possibly the Buffalo with coal for Lafarge.
At Stoneport on Saturday the American Fortitude, which is not a common visitor took on cargo at the dock.
Sunday morning brought the Algoway in to load, followed by the Calumet later in the evening. The Calumet approached the dock, then turned around to back in, and begin loading once secured.

An interactive historical replica offers look back at Erie Canal days

7/23 - Medina, NY — Hundreds of people took an up-close look at a white and green 88-foot time machine along the Erie Canal on Saturday.

The Lois McClure, a replica of an 1862 canal schooner, will be open for public tours at several canal sites in Western New York through Aug. 1. In what’s being called the “Grand Canal Journey,” the boat is part of an effort by officials from the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, the New York Canal Corporation and the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum to inspire tourism and economic revitalization in canal communities.

The McClure arrived in the area Friday evening towed into Medina’s port by two mules, as vessels had been in the canal’s early days. “This is literally a time machine. . .,” said John C. Callaghan, of the state Canal Corp. “[Visitors are] stepping back into history.” The replica was built by the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum based on sketches of a wrecked ship that still sits at the bottom of Lake Champlain, Callaghan said.

The ship made its first public stop in Seneca Falls, and will travel over 1,000 miles before its trip is done, he said. The ship’s captain, Roger Taylor, said he’s got an exciting yet easy job. “There’s not much navigation, just follow the road,” he said. Taylor, a native of Maine and a veteran of the U.S. Navy who lives with his wife on a canal boat in Europe, said the design of the boat itself was a rarity even in its own time.

Fashioned for traveling the canal, the McClure also has masts and sails that allow it to navigate other bodies of water, including the Hudson River, the Finger Lakes and Lake Champlain. The boat becomes a sailing rig when it needs to, according to Taylor. “It’s a convertible,” he said.

Lori Duell, project manager for the Lois McClure 2007 Voyage, said the cultural-based events surrounding the ship are aimed at raising awareness about canal resources. Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor is one of 37 national heritage areas and can be a catalyst for economic revitalization if communities combine their enthusiasm with an entrepreneurial spirit, Duell said.
Medina residents Ed and Beth Matthews toured the boat Saturday afternoon. Ed Matthews said he brings family and friends down around the canal because it’s a place to go that provides various recreational opportunities. “We’ve been looking forward to the clipper coming in here,” he said.

John Mooney, also a Medina resident, said he believes events based on the canal’s history can interest visitors and be used by communities to perk up their tourism industry. “It’s boats like this that will sort of refresh people on the canal,” Mooney said.
The Lois McClure can be viewed from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today in Medina before it moves on to other sites in Western New York along the canal in the coming days. The vessel is scheduled to dock at these ports of call: Lockport: Tuesday and Wednesday, Buffalo: Saturday and July 29, Cities of Tonawanda and North Tonawanda: July 31 and Aug. 1

From the Buffalo News

Owen Sound Russel Brothers Tugboat Festival planned for July 28-29

7/23 - Owen Sound - The Russel Tugboat Festival is less than a week away.

The fest is open to any steel-hulled boats, but the idea want to have as many Owen Sound built "Russels" as possible. For more information and to register visit http://russelbrothers.com

Updates - July 23

News Photo Gallery updated

Special 2007 Boatnerd Trip Raffle Winners gallery

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 23

On this day in 1906, the 556 foot ELBERT H GARY arrived to a 21-gun salute to deliver the first cargo of Minnesota ore at the new United States Steel mill in Gary, Indiana.

The keel for the TEXACO CHIEF (Hull#193) was laid July 23, 1968, at Collingwood, Ontario by Collingwood Shipyards Ltd., for Texaco Canada Ltd. Renamed b.) A G FARQUHARSON in 1986, and c.) ALGONOVA In 1998.

CANADOC sailed on her maiden voyage July 23, 1961.

Upper Lakes Shipping Co. Ltd.'s, RED WING was christened on July 23, 1960, as the first all-welded vessel to emerge from Port Weller Dry Docks.

On 23 July 1878, H R PRESTON (wooden quarter-deck canal boat built in 1877, at Oneida Lake, New York) was carrying 250 tons of ashes from Picton, Ontario to Oswego, New York in tow of the tug ALANSON SUMNER along with three other canal boats when they encountered a storm on Lake Ontario. About 15 miles from Oswego, the PRESTON broke her towline and was taken alongside the SUMNER with some difficulty. About a mile out of port she lost her hold tarps and began to sink quickly. She was cut loose from the tug and her two crewmen were saved by the Oswego tug WM AVERY. Though she was lying heavily on the bottom in 50 feet of water, her wreckage came ashore near 4 Mile Point in early September.

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Russ Plumb, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history tailed history.

Port Reports - July 22

Milwaukee - Paul Erspamer
On Saturday St. Mary's Challenger was delivering cement at its terminal up the Kinnickinnic River.
In Milwaukee's inner harbor, Voyageur Independent continued loading at Nidera.
BBC Plata is still unloading at terminal #2 in the outer harbor.
Maumee approached and entered the Milwaukee main breakwater entrance at about 7 p.m. Saturday. She proceeded upriver and docked at the bulk cargo dock on Jones Island where it deposited a load of salt.

Marquette - Rod Burdick
At the Upper Harbor, Herbert C. Jackson loaded ore Saturday afternoon. During her load the Charles M. Beeghly arrived to load ore after a lengthy coal unload at Algoma Steel in the Soo.

Buffalo - Brian Wroblewski
The Nantucket Clipper was docked at the Erie Basin Visiting Ship's dock Saturday evening.
The tug Gregory J Busch and barge STC 2004 were tied up at the old Republic Steel Ore Dock Sunday evening. The entire property was previously filled with Blast furnaces, Open Hearths, Basic Oxygen Plants, Rolling Mills, Ore Docks, boat unloaders and train tracks The land that the mill stood on is completely stripped of all steel plant related structures and totally barren except for the dock facing along the riverfront. The windmill parts are being stored in the open grass fields that now occupy the site.

BBC Scandinavia to move train off Ogdensburg Dock

7/22 - Ogdensburg, NY - The BBC Scandinavia was scheduled Saturday to hoist a 200-ton locomotive from the dock of the Port of Ogdensburg.

Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority Executive Director Wade A. Davis said the lift should proceed in the early afternoon depending on weather conditions.

The locomotive owned by the Quebec Cartier Mining Company is bound for Port Cartier, Quebec with final destination of New Brunswick. OBPA and Quebec Cartier Mining spent Friday preparing the locomotive for transport.

The BBC Scandinavia has two cranes aboard to hoist the locomotive onto the dock.

Reported by Kathy Kelly from the Watertown Daily News

Updates - July 22

News Photo Gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 22

On this day in 1961, the barge CLEVECO, originally lost with a crew of 22 during a December 02, 1942, storm on Lake Erie, was floated by salvagers, towed outside the shipping lanes, and intentionally sunk.

PERE MARQUETTE 22 (Hull#210) was launched on July 22, 1924, at Manitowoc, Wisconsin by Manitowoc Shipbuilding Co. for the Pere Marquette Railway Co.

One hundred years ago on 22 July 1900, the tug MATT H ESSER was launched at Lorain, Ohio by H. D. Root for Captain Burke of Erie.

The M I MILLS (wooden propeller tug, 122 foot, 152 tons, built in 1867, at Marine City, Michigan), which sank in a collision with the bark UNADILLA on 9 May 1873, was found on 22 July 1873, in 90 feet of water in Lake Huron off Sand Beach, Michigan. Plans were made to raise her at the cost of $5,000. This effort was unsuccessful as was another abortive attempt in 1895.

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Russ Plumb, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history tailed history.

Port Reports - July 21

Marquette - Rod Burdick
Friday morning at the Upper Harbor ore dock the tug Dorothy Ann and barge Pathfinder loaded taconite. The pair had not been in Marquette since early Spring.

Marinette - Dick Lund
The Voorneborg arrived in Menominee with a load of wood pulp for a local warehouse on Friday.
Also, Marinette Marine side-launched the new Vane Bros. tug into the Menominee River around 11:15 a.m. on Friday.

Buffalo - Brian Wroblewski
The tug Gregory J Busch and barge STC 2004 were heading into the Buffalo River with windmill turbine bases at 6:30 a.m. Friday morning for the Republic Steel dock. The tug and barge docked in an unusual location Friday afternoon. She was literally tied up to a tree at the foot of Smith St. on the Buffalo River. The barge had 3 lines out, two on the small little dock landing that sticks out into the river and another line out off the barge's Port bow to a tree on the side of the channel. Apparently the they made it up through CSX Main Line River Bridge on Friday morning, but due to high wind, they decided not to try to make it through the Nickle Plate Bridge and CP Draw at that time. They have been tied up there since and will probably go upriver to Republic Steel ASAP. This is an Articulated unit since the tug and barge have a pin and ladder type ATB connection system. This would be the first ATB that I know of to go up this part of the river. The Undaunted-PM 41 is also an ATB but she only ran a short distance into the river and then she used the City Ship Canal from there on up to the TDX Gypsum dock a few years ago.

Toronto - Charlie Gibbons
Early Friday Spirit of Nantucket (ex-Nantucket Clipper) departed for the Welland Canal, her first transit under the new name.

Goderich - Dale Baechler
Canadian Transfer made her entry into port and was loading early Saturday morning at Sifto Salt after waiting outside for more than twenty four hours at anchor due to high wind.

Milwaukee - Paul Erspamer
Amelia Desgagnes visited Milwaukee's inner harbor at about 3 a.m. Friday, docking and loading at the Nidera grain elevator.
Voyageur Independent backed upriver about three hours later, tying up at the bulk cargo dock on Jones Island as it waited for dock space at Nidera.
When Amelia Desgagnes departed at about 8:40 p.m., Voyageur Independent "tacked" across the turning basin to shift to a berth at Nidera.
BBC Plata remained at terminal #2 in the outer harbor Friday evening, unloading windmill components.

Owen Sound - Peter Bowers
On Friday morning the Saginaw arrived with a load of wheat at the Great Lakes Elevator from the Lakehead. She left light at about 7:10 p.m.

Reservations deadline nearing for Boatnerd Detroit Down River Cruise

The cruise is similar to an Up River cruise that many Boatnerds enjoyed last year.

Checks and reservations must be received no later than August 1, 2007. Go to the Boatnerd Gatherings page for all the details and reservation forms.

Updates - July 21

News Photo Gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 21

The JAMES DAVIDSON and KINSMAN INDEPENDENT arrived under tow at Santander, Spain on July 21, 1974, for scrapping.

On July 21, 1975, the GEORGE D GOBLE arrived at Lorain, Ohio with an unusual deck cargo loaded at American Ship Building Company's yard at South Chicago, Illinois. She was carrying the deckhouses for two Interlake Steamship Company thousand-foot self-unloaders being built at AmShip's Lorain yard. These vessels were completed as the JAMES R BARKER and MESABI MINER.

On 21 July 1875, the schooner ELVA, which was built in Port Huron, Michigan in 1861, for Capt. Sinclair, was sailing from Holland, Michigan for Milwaukee, Wisconsin loaded with stove bolts. She capsized 12 miles from Milwaukee. Her crew took to the boats and made a landing in Kenosha and then rowed to Milwaukee. A tug was sent for the schooner and she was recovered.

In 1900, R J GORDON (wooden propeller passenger-package freighter, 104 foot, 187 gross tons, built in 1881, at Marine City, Michigan) was placed back in service carrying freight and passengers between Chicago and Grand Haven. She had burned in September 1899 at Chicago but was rebuilt during the winter.

On 21 July 1875, the old barge HURON, which had been in use for a number of years as a car ferry for the Grand Trunk Railroad at Port Huron/Sarnia, was sold to Sandie and Archie Stewart. They planned to convert her to a dry-dock by adding three feet to her sides and removing her arches. The sale price was $1,500 in gold.

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history tailed history.

Port Reports - July 20

Toronto - Charlie Gibbons & Cleve Reddin
Mandarin departed Thursday afternoon around 3 p.m. with the assistance of the Groupe Ocean tugs, which themselves departed when the undocking assist was completed.

Saginaw River - Todd Shorkey
The American Century called on the Consumers Energy dock in Essexville Tuesday night to unload coal. Early Wednesday morning she had completed her unload and backed away from the dock headed for Light 12 to turn around and head for the lake.
The tug Olive L. Moore and barge Lewis J. Kuber were also out bound at this time after unloading at the Wirt dock in Saginaw. The Kuber & Moore had to check back near the Front Range as the American Century was having some difficulty getting up speed and was taking longer than usual to get out to Light 12 and turned.
In bound early on Wednesday was the Sam Laud who called on the Bay Aggregates dock in Bay City. She was out bound later in the morning.
Taking the Laud's place at the Bay Aggregates dock later in the afternoon was the tug Dorothy Ann and barge Pathfinder. The pair was finished unloading and out bound for the lake later in the day.
Also in bound on Wednesday was the tug Invincible and barge McKee Sons. The pair traveled upriver to unload at the GM dock in Saginaw. The Invincible & McKee Sons were also out bound later in the day.

St. Joseph - Jim Lindholm
The LaFarge barge Innovation departed St. Joseph Michigan about noon Wednesday.

Lorain - L. Seabold
The H. Lee White arrived in Lorain at mid-morning Thursday and was unloading at U.S. Steel.

Twin Ports - Al Miller
Thursday evening was busy in Duluth-Superior. Pochard was loading grain at CHS in Superior.
John B. Aird was loading coal at Midwest Energy Terminal while Algowood was anchored on the lake waiting for its turn to load.
Heavy-lift saltie Tramper was at Duluth port terminal Berth 1 using both its big deck cranes to unload oil field gear for western Canada.
Heavy-lift saltie Beluga Constitution was waiting in the inner harbor anchorage area for its turn at Berth 1 to unload windmills. By 7:30 Friday morning, Tramper was long gone and Beluga Constitution was ready to work cargo.
About the same time, Presque Isle and American Century came into Duluth back to back under the same lift of the bridge. The Presque fueled then proceeded to DMIR/CN ore docks to load while American Century was due at Midwest Energy Terminal.
Due later in the day were James R. Barker and Canadian Enterprise for Midwest Energy Terminal and Philip R. Clarke to unload stone at DMIR/CN.

S/S Badger seeking Assistant Engineer

7/20 - Ludington - The SS Badger is currently seeking a relief 2nd A/E from August 15th to the 30th.

Anyone interested in filling this position may email Laurie Bialochowski at laurieb@ssbadger.com

Eight hurt in Lake Erie boat accident

7/20 - Sandusky, OH -- A Findlay man was among eight people hurt Tuesday night when a boat carrying a group that had been filming a fishing show for the Outdoor Channel hit a breakwall near Cedar Point amusement park.

John McDow of Findlay was reported in serious condition Wednesday night in St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center, Toledo. Also injured were Roger Raglin, host of the fishing and hunting show Roger Raglin Outdoors, his wife Darlene, their son Joshua, a daughter Raquell, all of Coweta, Okla.; the driver of the boat, Ted Bayer of Liberty Center; and Samuel and James Wiley, both of Athens, W.Va.

According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Watercraft Division, both McDow and James Wiley were taken to the Toledo hospital by air ambulance. Wiley was reported in stable condition Wednesday. The others were taken to Firelands Hospital in Sandusky, where they were treated and released, according to watercraft spokesman John Wisse. None of the injuries appeared to be life threatening, said U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Jonathan Hood.

The Division of Watercraft reported that the 33-foot powerboat was returning to Battery Park Marina at 10:30 p.m. Tuesday when it struck the breakwall. Bayer told investigators that he had been looking at his instrument gauges at the time of the crash, Wisse said. Firefighters who arrived by boat at the accident noted that it was foggy on the water, and they had used radar to get there, said Lt. Gary Zakrajsek of the Sandusky Fire Department.

Two people were thrown from the boat and one ended up on the rocks, he said. “He had no idea how he got on the rocks or why he was out of the boat,” Zakrajsek said.

Raglin owns BKS Productions. He was in Ohio filming for a show about fishing on Lake Erie, which is set to be aired in September, according to his Web site. His company has produced dozens of videos about the outdoors.

The Division of Watercraft reported that alcohol was not a factor and that none of the passengers was wearing a life jacket. The agency expects to conclude its investigation of the accident within several days.

From the Findlay Courier

Updates - July 20

News Photo Gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 20

The CANADOC suffered severe bow damage on July 20, 1963, in a collision with the Swiss-flagged freighter BARILOCHE in dense fog off Ile de Orleans, near Quebec City.

The LEON FALK JR was christened at Cleveland, July 20, 1961, after one trip to Duluth, Minnesota for ore.

HORACE JOHNSON (Hull#805) was launched July 20, 1929, at Lorain, Ohio by American Ship Building Co. for the Pittsburgh Steamship Co.

The JAY C MORSE (Hull#438) was launched on July 20, 1907, at Cleveland, Ohio by American Ship building Co. for the Mesaba Steamship Co. (Pickands & Mather & Co., mgr.) Sold Canadian in 1965, renamed b.) SHELTER BAY, used as a storage barge at Goderich, renamed c.) D B WELDON in 1979. In 1982, her pilothouse was removed and is used as a museum in Goderich Harbor. The WELDON was scrapped at Thunder Bay in 1984.

At the end of June, 1877, the ferry MYRTLE began running between Port Huron and Sarnia. However, on 20 July 1877, The Port Huron Times reported that "The ferry MYRTLE has been taken off the route on account of the extreme dullness of the times."

The scow DIXIE burned during the night of 20 July 1875, while lying at Kenyon's dock in East China Township on the St. Clair River.

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history tailed history.

Port Reports - July 19

Marquette - Rod Burdick
Wednesday morning at the Upper Harbor, American Fortitude loaded ore. The visit was her third to Marquette in 2007.

Grand Haven - Dick Fox
The Calumet came in light mid-morning Wednesday and was loading at the Construction Aggregates dock.
Also in town docked at the Government Basin, is the Great Lakes Environmental Research vessel Shenehon.

Alpena & Stoneport - Ben & Chanda McClain
On Monday afternoon the Sam Laud was unloading coal at Lafarge.
The Alpena was in port on Wednesday. It took on cargo under the silos among the fog that blanketed the lakeshore areas.
By evening visibility only improved a little. The tug G. L Ostrander and barge Integrity was expected in around 11 p.m. on Wednesday.
Kaye E. Barker was loading at Stoneport Wednesday evening.
The tug Olive L. Moore and barge Lewis J. Kuber is scheduled to load after the Barker on Thursday morning.

Soo - Jerry Masson
Wednesday's upbound traffic included Algowood, Manistee, Edwin H Gott, Beluga Constitution, Reserve, Grande Mariner, and American Century.
Downbound were Edgar B Speer, American Victory, Joyce L VanEnkevort/Great Lakes Trader, Frontenac, and American Fortitude.

Toronto - Charlie Gibbons
The salty Mandarin was turned at Redpath Sugar by the Groupe Ocean tugs Laprairie and Omni Richelieu on Wednesday afternoon.
The newly renamed Spirit of Nantucket is due in Toronto Thursday. This is the former Nantucket Clipper.

Holland - Bob VandeVusse
Tuesday the sailing vessel Windy II visited Holland on a charter. They dropped anchor in Lake Macatawa and passengers were tendered to and from shore. Mid-afternoon they departed, reportedly for Milwaukee.
Early Wednesday morning, the Calumet delivered coal to the James DeYoung power plant, then headed to Grand Haven to load sand.

Marinette - Dick Lund
The Amelia Desgagnes arrived in Marinette around 7 p.m. Wednesday with a load of pig iron for Marinette Fuel & Dock. This ship only makes an occasional appearance here as most of these loads are handled by the Catherine Desgagnes.

Dredging Crisis Saps Lakes Coal Trade in June
Lowest June Total in 5 Years

7/19 - Cleveland—Coal shipments on the Great Lakes in June fell to the month’s lowest level in 5 years – 4,184,977 net tons. Just two years ago, almost 5 million net tons of coal were moved on the Great Lakes in June.

The on-going dredging crisis played a major role in the low total. The largest coal cargo of the month in the Head-of-the-Lakes trade totaled 63,628 net tons. Ten years ago, when high water levels masked the lack of adequate dredging, cargos topped 70,000 net tons.

The plunging water level on Lake Superior also impacted coal shipments. The largest cargo loaded at Superior, Wisconsin, and destined for near-by Silver Bay, Minnesota, totaled only 65,623 net tons. The record for this particular move is 71,369 net tons.

On Lake Erie, a vessel that a year ago was able to deliver 13,300 net tons of coal to a Canadian customer on the St. Marys River had to reduce its load by nearly 600 net tons when hauling from the same loading dock to the same receiving terminal.

For the year, the Lakes coal trade stands at 14.6 million net tons, a decrease of 12 percent compared to the same point in 2006. Compared to the 5-year average, shipments are down by 5 percent, or 840,000 net tons.

More information is available at this link

Source: Lake Carriers’ Association

Seaway Officials Meet with Niagara Politicians about canal security
(March 21, 2005)

(Editors Note - This article is being re-printed in light of recent discussion concerning security fences at the Welland Canal.)

7/19 - St. Catharines, Ontario — Michel Drolet, Vice President of The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation’s (SLSMC) Niagara Region met today with Niagara elected officials to discuss security requirements for the Welland Canal.

“There has been a lot of misunderstanding about the impact the new security measures will have on the Welland Canal,” said Mr. Drolet. “We felt it was important to brief elected officials so they understand how and why these new requirements are being implemented.”

During the briefing, Mr. Drolet explained that these security measures are being implemented to detect and prevent unauthorized movement and activity in secure areas where vessels and infrastructure are vulnerable, for instance when a vessel is tied-up in a lock chamber. They are not in response to any particular threat to the canal.

SLSMC is complying with the new Maritime Transportation Security Regulations (MTSR), which came into force on July 1, 2004. Transport Canada enacted these regulations to be in compliance with the International Marine Organization’s International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. As a signatory to the 1974 Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention, Canada was obliged to implement the ISPS Code by July 1 last year.

“There seems to be some concern in the community that the entire Canal is going to be fenced,” Mr. Drolet said. “In fact, very little new fencing will be installed, however some existing fencing must be replaced or upgraded to meet Transport Canada standards."

Some additional fencing will be required to close gaps in order to meet national and international obligations. In addressing the specific issue of the Lock 3 Museum and Viewing Deck, Mr. Drolet made a commitment to work with City of St. Catharines officials to implement the security measures in a way that is as unobtrusive as possible for visitors yet still meets the MTSR. Mr. Drolet also made a commitment to continue working with Niagara’s other elected officials on this and other matters.

From the St. Lawrence Seaway website.

Seaway announces "Green Power" projects for Welland Canal

7/19 - St. Catharines, Ontario – The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC) announced today that an agreement has been reached with Rankin Renewable Power Inc. to develop three “green” hydropower projects within the Welland Canal. Under the terms of the agreement, St. Catharines based Rankin will construct and operate the three power stations, to be located at the weirs adjacent to Locks 1, 2 and 3.

The agreement which covers a 25 year term heralds a new age for clean and renewable energy production within the Welland Canal, with each of the power stations capable of generating 2 megawatts of electricity. Each facility will generate hydroelectric power in a run-of-the-river manner, using the water in the canal that is normally spilled over the existing weirs. Power generated from the facilities will be transmitted to local distribution lines owned by local electrical utility companies for use in the provincial grid.

Richard Corfe, President and CEO of the SLSMC, pointed out that the project stands as a strong testament to the Seaway’s commitment to corporate social responsibility. “Within the mandate assigned to us by Transport Canada, we are stewards of the Welland Canal. This opportunity affords us the means of expanding our role to harness the canal’s previously untapped power potential to benefit all Ontarians. The end result will supply homes with truly green power”.

Rankin Renewable Power Inc. was chosen through a competitive bidding process, and is a division of Rankin Construction Inc., a firm which has extensive experience in project management within the Welland Canal. The firm’s President, Tom Rankin, enthused about the potential of this development. “We are proud of this renewable power initiative and look forward to a continued long term relationship with the Corporation. In addition to supporting the Provincial and Federal green power initiatives, these three power plants will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 38,900 tonnes of CO2 per year, the equivalent of taking 8,420 passenger cars off the road. Enough energy can be provided to power nearly 5,000 homes.”

From the St. Lawrence Seaway website.

Former Coast Guard Commandant Dies

7/19 - Washington - The U.S. Coast Guard today announced the death of Adm. Owen W. Siler, 85, Coast Guard commandant from 1974 to 1978, who succumbed to heart failure last night.

"This is a sad day for the Coast Guard," said Adm. Thad Allen, commandant of the Coast Guard. "The Coast Guard lost a close member of our family and America has lost a great leader. Adm. Siler's relentless service to his Nation, from World War II to the war on drugs, will never be forgotten.

The face of the Coast Guard was forever changed as a result of Adm. Siler's commitment and foresight towards minority recruiting and the advancement of women within the Coast Guard's ranks."

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Siler family during this difficult time," Allen said.

Siler was nominated to become the 15th commandant of the Coast Guard by President Richard M. Nixon and, following Senate confirmation, he relieved Adm. Chester R. Bender, on June 1, 1974. Siler's official Coast Guard biography can be found at at this link

Funeral arrangements are pending.

USCG News Release

Sailor/Shipkeeper Walter Watkins Dies

7/19 - Kalamazoo, MI - Walter Watkins passed away on July 11, 2007 at Woodhills Assisted Living where he was a resident since 2006.

Walt, who called the people of Kalamazoo his family, was born in Detroit, Michigan on November 20, 1927. Memorial Services will be held 10:30 Wednesday, July 25, at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St. Inurnment will be in Ft. Custer National Cemetery with full Military Honors.

Walt was a kind, caring and generous person. He loved to entertain people by telling sea stories, and doing rope tricks.

During his life long career in shipping he served aboard many ships, among those being the Stewart J. Cort, Lewis Wilson Foy, Burns Harbor and the Edward L. Ryerson. During his numerous years of ship keeping in Sturgeon Bay he always found time to donate many hours to the young people of the community, teaching all sort of cable splicing and nylon knot tying. He was also awarded the "key to the city" for his countless hours of time, and his generosity.

He retired from Bethlehem Steel Corporation in 1992 and for many years after that he would fill in for shorthanded crews. He will be greatly missed by his numerous friends.

Reported by Don Geske

Marine Program at Port Huron Maritime Center

7/19 - Port Huron - The Lake Huron Lore Marine Society and George Lee will present, "50 Years of Lee Marine!"

A look at the tug and towing business his father founded, including pictures of some of the classic steamers they once owned, such as the former Canadian Pacific Great Lakes passenger liners Keewatin and Assiniboine.

The program will be held at the Great Lakes Maritime Center, 51 Water St., Port Huron, Michigan, on Friday, July 20, 2007, at 7 pm. The program is open and free to the public.

Updates - July 19

News Photo Gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated

Today in Great Lakes History : July 19

July 19, 1991 - P & H's BEECHGLEN returned to service clearing Port Weller Drydocks. Her hull had buckled on April 30, while loading a cargo of corn at Cardinal, Ontario. She arrived in Thunder Bay to unload her first cargo on July 23.

On this day in 1970, the ARTHUR B HOMER established a new Great Lakes loading record when she loaded 27,530 tons of ore at Escanaba. This eclipsed the previous record of 27,402 tons set by the EDMUND FITZGERALD.

EDWIN H GOTT (Hull#718) was float launched July 19, 1978, at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin by Bay Shipbuilding Co. for U.S Steel Corp.

CLARENCE B RANDALL sailed on her maiden voyage July 19, 1943, from Ashtabula, Ohio, light bound for Two Harbors, Minnesota. She was renamed b.) ASHLAND in 1962. The ASHLAND was scrapped at Mamonel, Columbia in 1988.

N. M. Paterson & Sons, CANADOC (Hull#627) was christened on July 19, 1961.

The registry of the GORDON C LEITCH, of 1954, was closed on July 19, 1985, as "sold foreign". She was scrapped at Setubal, Portugal in 1985.

JOHN P REISS in tandem tow with the carferry CITY OF SAGINAW 31 arrived at Castellon, Spain prior to July 19, 1973, for scrapping.

JOSEPH S YOUNG, a.) ARCHERS HOPE, was christened at Buffalo, New York on July 19, 1957. The JOSEPH S YOUNG was the first of seven T2 tanker conversions for Great Lakes service.

On 19 July 1831, the wooden schooner HENRY CLAY was carrying 800 barrels of salt and passengers from Oswego, New York to the Welland Canal on her maiden voyage when she capsized in a squall and sank about 10 miles off Port Dalhousie, Ontario on Lake Ontario. About 11 persons were aboard and at least 6 of them lost their lives. Three were saved by the steamer CANADA.

On 19 July 1900, the name of the Toledo tug A ANDREWS JR was changed to PALLISTER.

On 19 July 1871, J BARBER (wooden propeller steamer, 125 foot, 306 tons, built in 1856, at Cleveland, Ohio) was carrying fruit from St. Joseph, Michigan to Chicago when she caught fire and sank 14 miles off Michigan City, Indiana. Five lives were lost.

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Russ Plumb, Lake Huron Lore Society, Mike Nicholls, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series. Marine Historical Society of Detroit. This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history.

Marine Star leaves berth near Fuhrmann Boulevard
Future of former ferry is under wraps, but it could be as scrap

7/18 - 7 a.m. Update -Cape Vincent - The tow of the Aquarama entered the St. Lawrence River, from Lake Ontario, at Cape Vincent at 6:20 a.m. Wednesday morning.
The tow plans to be at Cross Over Island at 9 a.m.

Reported by Bonnie Dillenbeck

7/18 - Buffalo - The Marine Star, the derelict Great Lakes passenger ferry that has spent the last 12 years rusting along the Buffalo waterfront, is now on its way to Quebec, and possibly Europe. But its fate — reuse or the scrap heap — remains unknown.

The 62-year-old vessel, once the largest and most luxurious ferry on the Great Lakes, was towed away from its moorings along Fuhrmann Boulevard early Sunday morning. After spending a night in Port Colborne, Ont., where it was inspected by Canadian authorities for sea-worthiness, it worked its way through the Welland Canal on Monday, under the tow of the tugboat Radium Yellowknife.

A representative of Norlake Transportation, the Port Colborne company hired to tow the ferry, confirmed it is headed to a Quebec port. “She’s going to Three Rivers, then she’s going overseas,” said Norlake’s Ed O’Connor. “We’ve been told she’ll be in Quebec for about a month, then another company will take over and take her to Europe.”

O’Connor said the crews who prepared the ferry for departure from Buffalo last week were initially under the impression it was going to be scrapped, but now its fate is unclear. “As far as we know, she’s not scheduled to be scrapped. It’s possible somebody in Europe has a plan to do something with her,” he added.

Rumors that the long-idle ferry is destined for a scrap yard in Alang, India, have been filtering through the shipping industry for months. In late June, James Everatt, a Canadian businessman with an ownership stake in the Marine Star, insisted there were no plans to scrap the once-proud vessel.

“I don’t care what people are saying, no final decision had been made,” he told The Buffalo News. Everatt, whose ownership group floated a $40 million plan to restore the vessel, did not return phone calls Monday.

Fred Langdon, owner of South End Marina, where the ferry has been stored since 1995, said the owners provided him little information about its future. “About a month ago, they said it was being moved, but we didn’t know until about a week ago when that would happen,” Langdon said. “It was supposed to take off Saturday, but it was too windy, so they waited until Sunday morning.”

As recently as Friday, TradeWinds — a shipping publication based in Norway — cited scrap industry sources who said several brokers in Alang, the world’s ship salvage center, were negotiating to buy the Marine Star. A Great Lakes shipping source who asked not to be identified said the planned layover in Quebec indicates that Empire Cruise Lines, which owns the ferry, is continuing those talks. “The price of scrap metal is very strong, and the cost to renovate is a lot higher. She’s got scrap written all over her,” he said.

One recent estimate put its salvage value at $1 million. The Empire group is said to have paid $50,000 to $70,000 a year for dock rental, insurance and other storage-related expenses.

Built in 1945 in Chester, Pa., the Marine Star was designed as a troop transport ship to ferry U.S. troops across the Atlantic. At the end of World War II, it underwent an $8 million transformation into a luxury-class ferry. Rechristened the Aquarama, the 520-foot-long day cruiser was the biggest passenger ferry to ply the Great Lakes.

The first new liner on the Great Lakes in 20 years, it turned heads with its capacity — room for 2,500 passengers and 160 cars — as well as its style. From its glistening corrugated stainless steel exterior side panels, to interior amenities that included two dance floors, a children’s playroom with baby-sitting services, four restaurants and a cigar shop, the Aquarama was in a class of its own.

It was operated by Michigan Ohio Navigation Co., and its Detroit-Cleveland service was quite popular in the 1950s. But its massive size, a lack of overnight accommodations and high operational costs prevented its owners from turning a profit. By the mid-1960s, it was sitting idle at a Muskegon, Mich., dock where it was laid up until 1987, when it was purchased by a Port Stanley, Ont., company for $3 million. The fading Aquarama was first towed to Sarnia, then to Windsor, where it remained on the shoreline.

In 1994, Empire Cruise Lines, whose major shareholders included Everatt, bought the ferry with the idea of turning it into a floating casino and returned it to its original name. In August 1995, it was towed to South End Marina on Buffalo’s outer harbor. While legal obstacles blocked Empire Lines from converting the Marine Star to a gambling venue, the company publicly maintained a goal of turning the deteriorating ferry into a cruise liner offering top-shelf travel on the Great Lakes.

From the Buffalo News

Port Reports - July 18

Marquette - Rod Burdick & Lee Rowe
Tuesday morning, Herbert C. Jackson unloaded western coal at the Lower Harbor Shiras Dock. Jackson and fleetmate Lee A. Tregurtha loaded ore.
Work continues on what appears to be a barge for MCM Marine on the commercial dock next to the ore dock.

Toledo - Bob Vincent
On Monday, the Charles M. Beeghly came in under the coal machine after unloading ore (Tildon) from Marquette at that Torco dock.
Edwin H. Gott also came by the coal dock after 8 p.m. and began to unloaded ore at the Midwest Terminal of Toledo International dock. The Gott finished unloading and head out around 10 a.m. Tuesday.
The Beeghly loaded for the steel plant at Ste. Sault Marie Ontario and headed out around 4 a.m.
The barge McKee Sons and tug Invincible was treading water down river in the channel waiting for the Beeghly to clear. The tug/barge finished loading and departed on Tuesday around 8:30 am.
Following the McKee Sons/Invincible in was unknown tug pull the Luedtke Engineering Company dredging equipment.
Next coal boat will be the Arthur M. Anderson on Wednesday, July 18 and due back on Thursday, July 19.
The Lee A. Tregurtha is scheduled for Friday, July 20. with the 2007 raffle winner.

Duluth - Bob
The Agawa Canyon was in Duluth today, at DMIR, unloading limestone.

Duluth - Joe
For two days the USCGC Alder has been marking the wreck of an old vessel. The ship was found last winter when the lake was frozen.

Saginaw River - Todd Shorkey
After arriving at the Bay City Wirt dock on Sunday night to lighter, the tug Olive L. Moore and barge Lewis J. Kuber finally departed for the Saginaw Wirt dock Tuesday morning to finish her unload. It is unknown if a mechanical problem or some other reason kept them at the Bay City dock for such a long period of time.
Scheduled vessels for late Tuesday night include the American Century for Consumers Energy and the Sam Laud for Bay Aggregates.

Detroit River - Ken Borg
On Tuesday, the Beluga Constitution was up bound at 6:10 p.m. She has a deck cargo of power generating windmill parts.
Liquid Blue followed up bound at 6:32 p.m.
The James Norris departed Detroit Bulk Dock at 6:39 p.m. and entered the Detroit River going over to Canadian Rock Salt in Ojibway, Ont. to take on a load of salt for Muskegon, Mich.

Michigan History magazine celebrates 50 years of the Mighty Mac

7/18 - Lansing - Some said it could never be built. Others opposed building a bridge linking the Upper and Lower Peninsulas for political and economic reasons.

Despite the skeptics and the outspoken opponents, the Mackinac Bridge was built. On the day the bridge opened in November 1957, Governor G. Mennen Williams declared, “The real significance to this bridge is that it is proof there is no job too big for the people of Michigan.”

Michigan History celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of this beloved Michigan icon in its 104-page July/August issue.

This specially expanded issue contains stories of life at the Straits before the bridge; the struggle to raise the money to build it; and the fearless workers who constructed the massive towers and strung miles of cable. Also in this collector’s issue are dozens of recollections from Michiganians chronicling their personal association with Mighty Mac and the saga of one U.S. Air Force pilot who flew under the bridge!

For more information visit www.michiganhistorymagazine.com

Michigan History magazine news release

Reservations deadline nearing for Boatnerd Detroit Down River Cruise

The cruise is similar to an Up River cruise that many Boatnerds enjoyed last year.

Checks and reservations must be received no later than August 1, 2007. Go to the Boatnerd Gatherings page for all the details and reservation forms.

Updates - July 18

News Photo Gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery updated.

Today in Great Lakes History : July 18

On this day in 1974, Interlake Steamship decommissioned the COLONEL JAMES PICKANDS after 48 years of service due to continuing problems with her boilers and engines.

The AGAWA CANYON struck an abutment at Welland Canal's Bridge 11, at Allanburg, Ontario on July 18, 1977, while downbound with salt for Kingston, Ontario and sustained a thirty-foot gash just above the waterline at the port bow.

The canal tanker COMET (Hull#705) of the American Ship Building Co., at Lorain, Ohio, entered service on July 18, 1913, for ocean service. Sold Mexican and renamed b.) COMETA in 1928. She returned to the lakes in 1936, renamed c.) COMET for Cleveland Tankers. She was lengthened in 1940. She was scrapped at Ashtabula, Ohio in 1973.

The WILLIAM J FILBERT was in collision with the KINSMAN INDEPENDENT, of 1907, at the Burlington Northern Dock on July 18, 1970, when the Steel Trust steamer lost control in the current entering the slip.

The entire forward superstructure of the b.) JOHN DYKSTRA, a.) BENSON FORD of 1924, including the forecastle deck, was delivered to South Bass Island in Lake Erie on July 18, 1986, on the barge THOR 101 towed by the tug GREGORY J BUSCH. The superstructure was moved for use as a summer home where it remains. The hull of the DYKSTRA was sold to Marine Salvage, Port Colborne, Onta