| Twin Ports Report
04/30/1998: Louis R. Desmarais finally departed the Twin Ports April 29 as it left the BNSF taconite dock in Superior. The vessel was drydocked in Superior for several days after damaging its Kort nozzle. Reported by: Al Miller |
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Update on the Canadian Transfer 04/30: Reported by: Rod Burdick |
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Vessel Delivered to Great Lakes Maritime Academy 04/30: Reported by: Gary Schweitzer |
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Rumor Mill continues 04/30: This rumor should bounce back and forth until she sails or the season ends. Reported by: John A. Harris |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 30 The IRVIN L. CLYMER returned to service April 30, 1988 after a two season lay-up. HOWARD HINDMAN (2) grounded heavily when her steering cable parted at Little Rapids Cut in the St. Marys River, April 30, 1969. Due to the extensive damage, she was sold later in May of that year to Marine Salvage Ltd., Port Colborne, Ont. for scrap. The RED WING (2) tow arrived at Kaohsiung, Taiwan on April 30, 1987 for dismantling. The steel-hulled bulk carrier SHENANGO was launched on April 30, 1909. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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USNPS Ranger III opens 1998 04/29: Reported by: Bill Hanrahan |
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Oglebay Norton mailing offer for Global Stone 04/29: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Seaway Shipping Off to a Good Start 04/29: Reported by: Joan Baldwin |
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Drawbridge in Toldeo 04/29: Reported by: Jim Flury |
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E.M. Ford Fit-Out ? 04/29: Reported by: Todd L. Davidson |
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Cornelius Reports Fire 04/29: Reported by: Norm Scott |
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Carferry Works Sessions 04/29: On Saturday, May 9th, from 12:00 noon until 6:00 p.m., the S.P.C.M. will host a member open house aboard the carferry. This event is free to S.P.C.M. members, and $5.00 for guests. The schedule for the open house will be as follows: 12:00-12:50 p.m. Tours of ship. 1:00-1:50 p.m. Brats and S.P.C.M. souvenirs available. 2:00-3:20 p.m. S.P.C.M. Key Members will update everyone on status of carferry3:30-4:50 p.m. Members may bring their own slides or videos for showing. Members must bring their own carousel trays-a Kodak carousel projector, slide screen, T.V. and V.C.R. will be provided. 5:00-6:00 p.m. Wrap-up and tours of the ship. The June 30th to July 5th work sessions will focus on restoration of the aft-pilot house and other interior work. Exterior and car deck painting may also be done as needed. Our goal for this week will be to get the ship in shape for our annual Fourth of July fireworks outing. The July 4th fireworks outing will begin at 6:00 p.m. July 4th. Brats and souvenirs will be availablefrom 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tours of the ship will only be available at 8:30 p.m.. The Elberta fireworks begin at dusk. Last year, over 70 members and guests attended this event. There is nocost for members to attend. Guests may attend for $5.00 a person. We hope to host other work sessions during the course of the summer. Due to problems scheduling sessions in advance, volunteers are needed to supervise the sessions. Once sufficient volunteers can be obtained, we could publish a regular work session schedule. If you are interested in working aboard the carferry, please call George Micka at (616) 759-6328 or during work sessions at the carferry (616) 352-6150. Reported by: Society for the Preservation of the S.S. City of Milwaukee |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 29 On April 29, 1975, the Sam Laud entered service. Launched this date in 1976 was the a) SOODOC (2) On April 29, 1977 while inbound at Lorain, the IRVING S. OLDS hit a bridge on the Black River which extensively damaged her bow, tying up traffic for several hours. A fender boom fell on the GEORGE M. HUMPHREY’s pilot house in the Poe Lock at the Soo in 1971. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Busy day for the Twin Ports 04/28: Reported by: Al Miller |
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More on the Barker in Drydock 04/28: Reported by: Dan Ocean |
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News from the Seaway 04/28: Another transit was the excursion vessel UGLYDUCK on her delivery trip to Chicago. Her gross tonnage is 97 t. I have no other datas on that one at this time. Reported by: René Beauchamp |
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Trader on the Buffalo River 04/28: Reported by: Brian Wroblewski |
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Power Loss 04/28: Reported by: John A. Harris |
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Niagara remembered 04/28: A state park sticker is required. For information, telephone 414-285-3015. For information on other activities during the week, call Megan Matthews at the Wisconsin State Historical Society, 608-264-6501. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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USNSCS Grayfox Dedicated 04/28: The ship was donated to the Sea Cadet program by the US Navy at Jacksonville, FL. She was built in Marinette, WI in 1985 designated TWR 825 Torpedo Weapons retriever. She measures out at a length of 120′, beam of 25′ and draught (FLD) of 7’6″. Twin 1100hp Caterpillar Diesels are her power. After the dedication, she sailed to her new home port of Port Huron at a site on the Black River. Captain of the GRAYFOX is LCDR William Barnhardt NSCC. Reported by: John Meyland |
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Lake Ontario Water Regulation 04/28: Several small increases in the Lake Ontario outflow took place the past few days. On April 24, the flow was increased from 9500 m3/s to 9600 m3/s. The next day, the flow was increased to 9700 m3/s. Yesterday, two flow increases raised the outflow to 9900 m3/s. The current outflow of 9900 m3/s is also the maximum allowable amount specified by the L-Limit in Regulation Plan 1998. Plan 1998’s L-Limit defines the maximum allowable Lake Ontario outflow while maintaining acceptable velocities and sufficient water depths in the international reach of the St. Lawrence River for Seaway navigation. The daily mean Lake Ontario level yesterday was 75.44 m. The highest daily level this year to-date was 75.46 m, which first occurred on April 17 and last on April 23. No significant amount of rain is forecasted for the Lake Ontario basin in the next few days. We expect that the level of Lake Ontario will continue to decline very slowly. Reported by: John Whitehead |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 28 The 660 ft. forward section of the a) LEWIS WILSON FOY (b) OGLEBAY NORTON) was launched April 28,1977. LAKE WABUSH (b) CAPT. HENRY JACKMAN) was christened and launched April 28, 1981 On April 28, 1971 while upbound from Sorel, Que. for Muskegon, MI with a load of pig iron, LACHINEDOC (2) struck Rock Shoal off Little Round Island in the St. Lawrence River and was beached. On April 28, 1906 the J. PIERPONT MORGAN was launched. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Algorail breaks loose 04/27: As of 1500 Sunday the crew was still at Station Marblehead and the Algorail was in the lee waiting for the weather to improve. Reported by: Brian McCune |
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Winds Cause Delay 04/27: Reported by: Al Miller |
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Twin Ports Round up 04/27: Also, Canada Steamship Lines is making the best of a bad situation by giving the Louis R. Desmarais a fresh coat of paint while she under goes repairs. The Lee A. Tregurtha was unloading at the Cutler Stone dock in Superior yesterday. This is a some what rare ship for the twin ports and even more rare for that dock. Reported by: Al Miller and Glenn Blaszkiewicz |
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Enerchem Trader to Buffalo 04/27: She is making this run after the Emerald Star attempted entry up River on Tuesday but was too high to clear the bridges. Reported by: Tom Coonly |
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Tow Arrives 04/27: Reported by: Andy LaBorde |
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Barker in Shipyard 04/27: Reported by: Wayne Oien |
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Legislation to preserve lighthouses introduced 04/27: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Sanctity of Grave Kills Plan to Blast Ship for Ignots 04/27: A coalition of museum officials, marine archaeologists and the Salvation Army had appealed to the government to stop the salvage operation. Andy Mitchell, the federal secretary of state for parks, said Thursday that it is illegal under the Criminal Code of Canada to interfere with human remains, including the skeletons still aboard the sunken wreck. Mitchell said, “I will therefore be working in a timely manner with my Quebec colleagues to ensure that, if necessary, the law will be applied and the desecration of the site will not occur.” Reported by: Joan Baldwin |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 27 On April 27, 1993 the WOLVERINE (4) ran aground on Surveyors Reef near Port Dolomite near Cedarville, MI and damaged her hull. The ASHCROFT, upbound on Lake Erie in fog, collided with Interlake’s steamer JAMES H. REED on April 27, 1944. The REED, fully loaded with ore, quickly sank off Port Burwell, Ont. with a loss of twelve lives. The ASHCROFT suffered extensive bow damage below the water line and was taken to Ashtabula, OH for repairs. On April 27, 1973 the bow section of the SIDNEY E. SMITH, JR. was towed to Sarnia by the Malcolm tugs TABOGA and BARBARA ANN. The two sections of the hull were scuttled and land-filled to form a dock facing. The WILLIAM P. SNYDER, JR. left Ecorse light on her maiden voyage April 27, 1912 for Duluth, MN to load iron ore. On April 27, 1978 the TROISDOC (3) was downbound with corn for Cardinal, Ont. when she hit the upper end of the tie-up wall above Lock 2. On April 27, 1980, after loading pellets in Duluth, the ENDERS M. VOORHEES stopped at the Seaway Dock to load a large wooden stairway (three sections) on deck which was taken to the AmShip yard at Lorain. It was used for an open house on the newly built EDWIN H. GOTT in 1979. On April 27, 1953, the Reserve entered service. On April 27, 1984, the Charles M. Beeghly struck the breakwall while departing Superior on her first trip since the 1981 season. The vessel returned to Fraser Shipyards in Superior for repairs. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 26 ALGOWEST was launched April 26, 1982. Sea trials were conducted April 26, 1984 on Lake Ontario for the CANADIAN RANGER. An unfortunate incident happened on the SEWELL AVERY as four crew members were injured, one critically, when a lifeboat winch housing exploded shortly after a lifeboat drill in 1978. CANADOC was launched April 26, 1961. BENSON FORD (1) was launched in 1924. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 25 The b) PAUL R. TREGURTHA was christened April 25, 1981 as the a) WILLIAM J. DE LANCEY. On April 25, 1973 the self-unloading boom on the TADOUSSAC (2) collapsed while she was at Sandusky, OH. ENERCHEM LAKER was launched April 25, 1958 as a) ROCKCLIFFE HALL (2). BENJAMIN F. FAIRLESS was launched April 25, 1942. WILLIAM LIVINGSTONE was launched April 25, 1908. The PERCIVAL ROBERTS, JR. sailed light on her maiden voyage April 25, 1913 from Lorain to load ore at Two Harbors, MN. On April 25, 1954, the T.R. McLagan (now Oakglen) entered service. At 714’6″, she took the title for longest vessel on the Great Lakes from the Joseph H. Thompson, beating the Thompson by three inches. The Thompson had held the honor since November 4, 1952. METEOR (2) was launched in 1896 as a) FRANK ROCKEFELLER. On April 25, 1949, GRAINMOTOR collided with the abutment of the railroad bridge above Lock 2 of the Lachine Canal. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Work Continues 04/24: Reported by: Thom Holden |
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Star too Tall 04/24: Reported by: Tom Coonly |
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Algoway in Marquette 04/24: Reported by: Rod Burdick |
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Algoport Spots Brush Fire 04/24: Reported by: Scott Tomlinson |
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Fuel in Duluth 04/24: Duluth-Superior have been without a regular refueling service since last year, when Koch Industries sold its Reiss Marine fuel tanker to a Mexican company. Reiss Marine was a common sight around the Twin Ports for many years as it refueled lakers and salties at their loading berths. Koch reportedly sold it because the single-hull vessel faced growing liability costs and environmental regulatons following the Exxon Valdez oil spill in 1989. Since its departure, ships have been fueling by tank trucks, a time-consuming process. Murphy’s plan calls for it to sign a complex 20-year lease. it will renovate an existing building at the terminal and install four large bulk tanks capable of holding up to half a million gallons of No. 2 and No. diesel fuel. The fuel will be trucked in from Murphy’s refinery in Superior. Ship’s entering or leaving port will pull alongside the terminal dock and load fuel through a swinging boom. Reported by: Al Miller |
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ASC contributes to library branch 04/24: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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A.W.O. mandates program for members 04/24: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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ABS funds fellowship 04/24: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 24 The ONTADOC (2) (b) MELISSA DESGAGNES) sailed from Collingwood on her maiden voyage April 24, 1975 for Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. to load steel for Duluth, MN. The D.M. CLEMSON (2) departed Lorain on her maiden voyage April 24, 1917 to load iron ore at Duluth, MN. The B.F. JONES (2) left Quebec April 24, 1973 in tandem with her former fleetmate EDWARD S. KENDRICK towed by the Polish tug KORAL heading for scrapping in Spain. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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More on the Desmarais 04/23: Reported by: Glenn Blaszkiewicz |
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Oglebay Norton Loses steering 04/23: Reported by: Jonathan Kelly |
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Flordia in Northern Michigan? 04/23: Reported by: Jonathan Kelly |
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Indiana Harbor Sightings 04/23: Reported by: Kevin Kelley |
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Tow Arrives 04/23: Speaking of the tug, the new pilot house was installed on the former King’s Pointer today. Reported by: Max S. Hanley |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 23 On April 23, 1966 the JOSEPH S. WOOD was towed to the Ford Rouge complex at Dearborn, MI by her new owners, the Ford Motor Company. The FORT YORK was commissioned April 23, 1958. On April 23, 1980 the ARTHUR B. HOMER’s bow thruster failed while maneuvering through ice at Taconite Harbor, MN, resulting in a grounding which damaged her bow and one ballast tank. The JOSEPH S. SCOBELL was launched April 23, 1891 as a) GRIFFIN (1). On April 23, 1972, PAUL H. CARNAHAN arrived at the Burlington Northern Docks at Superior, Wisconsin to load 22,402 gross tons of iron ore bound for Detroit, opening the 1972 shipping season at Superior. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Provider Loses Power 04/22: The stern anchor was dropped to bring the ship under control but the anchor and 200 feet of chain was lost. The Provider was able to tie above the locks and after the water depth in the lock approaches was checked, things returned to normal. The Provider resumed her downbound passage around 14:30. The ALGONOVA arrived at the Government Dock in Soo Ontario at 06:30 on the 20th and is expected to depart this morning. Reported by: Scott McLellan |
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Under Tow 04/22: Reported by: Mike Modderman |
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Canadian Boat Enters Fraser 04/22: Reported by: Al Miller |
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Drummond Islander II Arrives 04/22: Reported by: Robert VandeVusse |
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Door County to host maritime events in May 04/22: On 9 May, Bay Shipbuilding Co. and Palmer Johnson Inc. in Sturgeon Bay will be open for self-guided tours sponsored by the Sturgeon Bay Rotary Club. The hours are 1000 to 1600 and admission is U.S.$5 for adults and U.S.$2 for children. On 16 and 17 May, from 0900 to 1600, the Fifth Annual Door County Lighthouse Walk will be held. Five lighthouses can be toured for U.S.$10 per adult and U.S.$5 for ages 5 to 17, while boat access to five others will be available. They include: Sherwood Point (1883), at Green Bay and Sturgeon Bay, which will have its normally-closed grounds open; the Canal Station (1899) at the Lake Michigan entrance to the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal, which will open its grounds; the Range Lights (1869) in Baileys Harbor will be open; Cana Island north of Baileys Harbor will have its keeper’s house open but access will be by shuttle bus; and Eagle Bluff (1868) in Peninsula State Park will be open for U.S.$3. Chambers Island Light (1858) will be part of a five-hour tour that starts with a departure on the Quo Vadis from Fish Creek, twice on 16 May at 0800 and 1310 and 17 May at 1030. Each includes a 2.4-kilometer/1.5-mile hike each way. The cost is U.S.$25 and reservations are required. Telephone 920-743-5958. The Yankee Clipper will provide a boat and walking tour of the Pilot and Plum Island lights. Two trips will leave daily from Gills Rock at 0930 and 1310. Cost is U.S.$12 for adults and U.S.$7 for children 4 to 11. Telephone 920-854-2972. Pottawatomie Lighthouse (1836) will be accessible by the Washington Island ferry (800-223-2094) and the Karfi fery (920-847-2252) from Washington to Rock Island. The Island Clipper is offering a tour past St. Marin and Poverty Islands to Rock Island for lunch and a 1.6-kilometer/one-mile walk each way to the light. Plum and Pilot will be circled on the return. Lighthouse historian Steve Karges will provide narration. The tour leaves Gills Rock at 0900 both days and returns at 1500. Telephone 920-854-2972. Cost is U.S.$25 for adults and U.S.$15 for children 4 to 11. For other lighthouse information, telephone 920-743-5958. The walk is sponsored by the Door County Maritime Museum. From 29 to 31 May, the schooner Madeline will visit Fish Creek and sunset cruises will be ofered from the Town Dock from 1900 to 2100. Donations of U.S.$25 for adults and U.S.$10 for children under 12 with an adult are accepted. Tours will be given of the vessel on 30 and 31 May from 1100 to 1700. Donations of U.S.$3 for adults and U.S.$1 for children under 12 are encouraged. The 28-meter/92-foot ship is a replica of a vessel that sailed northern Lake Michigan until the mid-1800s. The visit is sponsored by the Gibraltar Historic Association, Town of Gibraltar, Fish Creek Civic Association and Friends of Gibraltar. Finally, from 9 May to 27 Sept., the Door County Maritime Museum will have an exhibit in its Mezzanine Gallery highlighting the past 150 years of Wisconsin maritime history. On 23 May and 30 May, actors will provide visitors with history in period costumes and a special program on schooners will be offered to children. Museum hours are 0900 to 1800. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 22 The ST.CLAIR (2) was christened April 22, 1976 at Bayship. The CHICAGO TRIBUNE laid up for the last time at Toronto on April 22, 1986. HOCHELAGA (2) lost her self-unloading boom during a wind storm at Windsor, Ont. on April 22, 1980. As a consequence she made ten trips hauling grain as a “straight decker”. CHARLES M. WHITE was commissioned April 22, 1952 at South Chicago. She was soon recognized as one of the fastest ships on the Great Lakes because of her ability to reach speeds in excess of 17 knots (19.6 mph). Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Seaway update 04/21: Reported by: John Whitehead |
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Update on Lake Ontario Regulation 04/21: The daily mean Lake Ontario levels for the period April 11-19 are: 75.43, 75.43, 75.43, 75.44, 75.44, 75.45, 75.46, 75.45 and 75.45 m. The estimate for today?s mean level is 75.45 m. There are indications that the lake may have peaked last Friday but it is still too early to tell. Due to the continuing very high flows from Lake Erie, we expect that the current Lake Ontario level will undergo very little change for several more days, and that the subsequent decline will be slow. For comparison, in 1997, Lake Ontario peaked at 75.37 m during the period May 18-25. In 1993, the level peaked at 75.65 m during the period May 2-8. Reported by: John Whitehead |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 21 The EDWIN H. GOTT cleared Two Harbors with her first cargo, 59,375 tons of iron ore, on April 21, 1979 bound for Gary, IN. The WILLIS L. KING (b) C.L. AUSTIN) departed on her maiden voyage with a load of coal from Toledo on April 21, 1911 bound for Superior, WI. On April 21, 1988 the BIRCHGLEN was towed off the Great Lakes by the tugs ELMORE M. MISNER and ATOMIC bound for Sydney N.S. to be scrapped. OAKGLEN (1) was launched April 21, 1923 as a) WILLIAM H. WARNER. HOMER D. WILLIAMS was launched in 1917. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Hamilton Transfer in Dry Dock 04/20: Reported by: Dave Wobser |
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Tow Planned 04/20: Reported by: Mike Modderman |
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Elberta Village Council Turns Down SPCM’s Request 04/20: The S.S. City of Milwaukee, a National Historic Lankmark, has been served with an eviction notice from the Village of Elberta effective April 19, 1998. The Society for the Preservation of the S.S. City of Milwaukee asks that you send your letters of support to: Complete details of the Elberta Village Council meeting can be found at the SPCM website, http://www.carferry.com. |
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Tug Ohio and tow 04/20: Reported by: Andrew Severson |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 20 On April 20, 1960, the Arthur B. Homer entered service. She was the last vessel built by the Great Lakes Engineering Works. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 19 Sea trials were completed for the CANADIAN TRANSPORT April 19, 1979 and she departed Port Weller on her maiden voyage the next morning. The GEORGE A. STINSON’s self-unloading boom collapsed onto her deck due to a mechanical failure on the night of April 19, 1983 at Detroit. No injuries were reported. She continued hauling cargoes without a boom most of the year until it was replaced on September 20th of that year. On April 19, 1951 CLIFFS VICTORY began her much publicized 1,000 mile journey up the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers through the Illinois Waterway pushed by a towboat to Lockport, IL where two GLT tugs took up the tow through the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. HUTCHCLIFFE HALL was launched April 19, 1954. RICHARD TRIMBLE was launched April 19, 1913. The A.M. BYERS sank in a head-on collision with the upbound steamer E.M. FORD, whose steering gear failed, on the night of April 19, 1956. The collision occurred 2 1/2 miles south of Algonac, MI in the South Channel of the St. Clair River. On April 19, 1950, the Wilfred Sykes entered service, departing Lorain, Ohio for Toledo, Ohio to load coal on her maiden voyage. The Sykes also became the largest vessel on the Great Lakes, taking the honor from Pittsburgh Steamship Company’s Leon Fraser class (the “Supers”) which had held it since June 21, 1942. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Update on the Emerald Star 04/18: Reported by: John A. Harris |
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Iglehart in for Inspection 04/18: Reported by: J.K. |
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Regulars in Duluth 04/18: Reported by: Al Miller |
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Court moving ahead with Harbor Maintenance Tax refunds 04/18: On 31 March, the U.S. Supreme Court declared the Harbor Maintenance Tax unconstitutional. The unanimous ruling struck down a federal regulation passed in 1986 that collects money on exports from any U.S. port to fund maintenance of ports. A tax of 0.125 percent was levied on the value of any cargoes handled at U.S. ports. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Montreal gets dredging approval 04/18: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Update on Lake Ontario Regulation 04/18: Yesterday?s daily Lake Ontario level reading was 75.45 m, about 57 cm higher than average for this time of year. There was heavy rain in parts of the Lake Ontario basin yesterday and this no doubt helped raise the lake one centimetre from the previous day. Nonetheless, we believe the lake level has just about stabilized unless significant rainfall returns in the next 5-10 days. If indeed Lake Ontario has peaked, the subsequent decline in the level will be slow, due to the continuing very high flows from Lake Erie. The accumulated over-discharge deviations are 23540 m3/s-weeks, equivalent to 73 cm lowering effect relative to Plan 1958-D. The computed pre-project level is 75.94 m, which is 50 cm higher than the actual level. Reported by: John Whitehead |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 18 On her maiden voyage April 18, 1980 the AMERICAN MARINER left Sturgeon Bay light for Escanaba, Mich. to load 31,322 gross tons of taconite pellets for Ashtabula, Ohio and arrived there on April 26th. The MONTCLIFFE HALL began trading on the Great Lakes on April 18,1978. The PATERSON (2) was launched April 18, 1985. She was the last straight deck bulk freighter built on the Lakes and was built to the maximum size permitted to lock through the Seaway. BETHLEHEM (2) was launched April 18, 1917 as a) MIDVALE. Problems occurred on the ALASTAIR GUTHRIE’s first trip of the year on April 18, 1979 when she began taking on water in the engine room while loading grain at the International Multifoods elevator at Duluth, MN. Her stern settled to the bottom of the slip with 12 feet of water in the engine room. The RED WING (2) was sold for scrap on April 18, 1986. On April 18, 1960 the ROBERT C. STANLEY struck Vidal Shoal in Whitefish Bay about 1.5 miles above the Soo Locks, and tore a hole in her bottom. STONEFAX was launched April 18, 1903 as the straight deck Lake Bulk Freighter a) SINALOA. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Update on the Agawa Canyon 04/17: Still no word on why the vessels collided. Reports are that a tape of the incident clearly shows the loaded Agawa Canyon veering from her normal approach along the south wall across the canal to strike the smaller Emerald Star, then exiting the Poe Lock. Neither the video image or still photos of the ensuing collision suggest a reason for the larger vessel to veer across the canal. Reported by: John A. Harris |
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Regulars in Duluth 04/17: Reported by: Al Miller |
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More vessels Sail 04/17: Also sailing was the MEDUSA CHALLENGER from Milwaukee to Charlevoix. Reported by: Lakes Carriers’ Association |
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U.S. Coast Guard proposes ballast water regulation 04/17: The proposed regulation calls for mandatory reporting and sampling for almost all vessels entering U.S. waters after voyages from foreign locations or other nearshore areas beyond the open ocean. It will implement the U.S. National Invasive Species Act of 1996, amend existing regulations for the U.S. Great Lakes and establish voluntary ballast water exchange guidelines for all other U.S. waters. Comments on the regulation are due by 9 June. They can be sent to Docket Management Facility, (USCG-98-3423), U.S. Department of Transportation, Room PL 401, 400 Seventh St., S.W., Washington, D.C. 20590. Additional information is available from Lt. Larry Greene, U.S. Coast Guard project manager, Office of Response (G-MOR), 2100 Second St., S.W., Washington, D.C. 20593-0001. Greene can be contacted by telephone at 202-267-0500 or facsimile at 202-267-4547. An Internet notice can be found at (www.access.gpo.gov/su_docs/aces/aces140.html). Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 17 The 610 foot aft section of the JOHN B. AIRD passed upbound through the Soo Canal April 17, 1983 in tow of the tugs WILFRED M. COHEN and JOHN McLEAN heading for Thunder Bay where it was assembled with the 120 foot bow section. STADACONA (2) was launched April 17, 1929. On April 17, 1977, the Algolake entered service. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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New Great Lakes “JARC” (Jones Act Record Cargo) In March 04/16: This fast start comes on the heels of a record-setting 1997 navigation season. Jones Act lakers moved more than 125 million net tons of dry- and liquid-bulk cargo last year. The most significant increase in March came in the stone trade. With a mild winter in the region, several stone docks resumed shipping two or so weeks ahead of schedule, and as a result, U.S.-Flag stone cargos neared half a million tons. Iron ore cargos in U.S. bottoms totaled 2,562,734 net tons, an increase of 27.3 percent compared to a year ago. Including iron ore moved on Cleveland’s Cuyahoga River in February, the season-to-date total for U.S.-Flag iron ore is 2.7 million tons, an increase of 34.5 percent. Lakes Jones Act operators had 58 of their 70 vessels in service as April began and 62 as of today. Two more ships, a grain carrier and cement carrier, should resume operations within the next few days. Only two U.S.-Flag lakers are uncertain of their sail dates for 1998. The straight-decker KINSMAN ENTERPRISE is available if demand for grain warrants her activation. The cement carrier E. M. FORD can likewise be put in service if demand so requires. Reported by: Lakes Carriers’ Association |
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Seaway News 04/16: A new cruise ship to be seen in the Seaway this year will be the GRANDE MARINER operated by American Canadian Caribbean Line of Warren, R.I. She is expected in Montreal for her first cruise on July 5. Reported by: René Beauchamp |
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News from Buffalo 04/16: Also in the Buffalo news department: As of the night of the 15th the Kinsman Independent is lit from stem to stern at her dock at the Lake and Rail Elevator and should be going down river any day. Reported by: Brian Wroblewski |
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Southern Lake Michigan Report 04/16: Reported by: Kevin Kelley |
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American Steamship Enters 1998 Season 04/16: Most of the ASC self-unloaders were active by April 1, with the last two being the Sam Laud from Sturgeon bay shipyard on April 2 and the John J. Boland from Superior on April 8. During the past winter, ASC installed new Sperry adaptive digital gyroscope steering control systems on its Charles E. Wilson and H. Lee White. The following masters and chief engineers have been assigned to the 11 self-unloaders operated by ASC:
Reported by: Dave Wobser |
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Oglebay Norton Signs Agreement to Acquire Global Stone Corporation 04/16: Oglebay Norton’s offer price for the Global Stone Shares will be Cdn. $7.80 per share, payable in cash. There are approximately 32 million common shares outstanding, including option shares. Oglebay Norton officials said that it is anticipated that the bid will be mailed to Global Stone’s shareholders on or before April 27, 1998. Completion of the bid will be subject to certain terms and conditions, including a minimum tender of two- thirds of the shares outstanding. Both companies noted that the transaction could be completed by May 31, 1998. “We believe that Global Stone is an excellent strategic fit, and advances our stated desire to grow through selected value-added acquisitions,” stated John N. Lauer, Oglebay Norton’s president and chief executive officer. “The Acquisition of this well-managed company combined with our current industrial sands operations and our pending acquisition of the Port Inland limestone operations in Michigan, will make our industrial minerals businesses the largest single operating segment of Oglebay Norton. We welcome warmly the management and employees of Global Stone into our company.” “Global Stone’s strengths lie in its ownership of vast reserves of limestone,” said Robert R. Stone, Global Stone’s Chairman. “We are very pleased to have the opportunity to join a company that shares our core qualities — excellent products, strong operating efficiencies and exceptional customer service — and has competent and motivated management. Global Stone is excited about Oglebay’s growth plans, and will bring additional opportunities to achieve this strategy.” Global Stone will become a business unit of Oglebay Norton under the continued direction of Global Stone’s present senior management. Global Stone’s products, lime, chemical limestone and aggregate stone, are used in a variety of manufacturing processes and industries, including iron and steel, pulp and paper, chemical, environmental, agricultural and construction. Global Stone has more than 700 employees, and has eight operations in Canada and the United States. Reported by: James H. Neumiller |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 16 ALGOLAKE’s sea trials were held April 16, 1977. ALGOWOOD departed on her maiden voyage April 16, 1981 from Owen Sound, Ont. light for Stoneport, MI taking on stone there for Sarnia, Ont. The BURNS HARBOR’s keel was laid on April 16, 1979. CEMENTKARRIER was launched April 16, 1930. The W.K. BIXBY (c) SIDNEY E. SMITH, JR. (2) entered service on April 16, 1906. On April 16, 1986 the WILLIAM A. IRVIN was sold for $110,000 to the Duluth Convention Center Board. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Iglehart in for Repairs 04/15: Reported by: Al Miller |
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Bramble Returns 04/15: Reported by: John A. Harris |
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Coal off to a Strong start 04/15: Lake Erie Coal Full Out In March Reported by: Lake Carriers’ Association |
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Update on Lake Ontario Regulation 04/15: All gates of the Iroquois Dam were adjusted to fully open position yesterday. Yesterday’s daily Lake Ontario level reading was 75.43 m, about 55 cm higher than average for this time of year. The level has remained the same at 75.43 m the past three days and it appears the lake is fast approaching its spring peak level. Reported by: John Whitehead |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 15 CANADA MARQUIS was launched April 15, 1983. SAM LAUD was christened April 15, 1975. On April 15, 1977 the CONALLISON’s self-unloading boom collapsed while unloading coal at the Detroit Edison Trenton, MI power plant in the Trenton Channel of the lower Detroit River. The W.W. HOLLOWAY suffered a fire in the fantail while in dry dock following her re powering at AmShip on April 15, 1963 causing $15,000 damage. The J.P. MORGAN, JR. left Lorain light April 15, 1910 on her maiden voyage to load iron ore at Duluth, MN. The JOE S. MORROW entered service April 15, 1907. The JOHN P. REISS left Lorain on her maiden voyage April 15, 1910 with coal for Escanaba, MI. She was the first of three bulkers built in 1910 for Reiss interests. The IMPERIAL COLLINGWOOD began service April 15, 1948. On April 15, 1955, the Detroit Edison (2) entered service, departing Manitowoc, Wisconsin for Port Inland, Michigan on her maiden trip. On April 15, 1985, the William Clay Ford (2) (formerly Walter A. Sterling and presently Lee A. Tregurtha) departed Fraser Shipyards for the D. M. & I. R. ore docks in West Duluth for her first load in Ford Motor Company colors. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Cement in Duluth 04/14: Reported by: Al Miller |
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Seaway News 04/14: About to make her first trip in the Seaway last night was the Norwegian ship MUNKSUND. She is a sister-ship to MENOMINEE which completed four trips in the Lakes last year. Ref: My book Seaway Ships. Reported by: René Beauchamp |
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Ferry service Begins 1998 04/14: The Lakerunner will be the first vessel in nearly 40 years to offer repeat seasons as a cross-lake ferry on western Lake Ontario. The Captain for her cross-lake voyage of this day was owner/President Ihab Shaker. A Master Mariner with deep-sea experience, Captain Shaker was featured on television, radio and print media as being the first to repeat service in 4 decades. At the relatively young age of 37, Captain Shaker has achieved what many others proposed and reintroduced cross-lake service to Lake Ontario’s Niagara to Toronto corridor. On Tuesday, April 14, the Lakerunner departs Port Dalhousie at 6:45am to commence her second season of service. She will be joined by a Hydrofoil (now underway to Canada) on June 1st pending her certification and re-flagging (including payment of duty) to offer service to Port Dalhousie, Niagara on the Lake and Lewiston, New York. For information please contact Peter Green (a regular reader and occasional poster here) at 1-888-VIA-LAKE (1-888-842-5253). |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 14 On April 14, 1961 the FORT CHAMBLY departed Toronto, Ont. on her maiden voyage bound for the Canadian Lakehead. The COLONEL JAMES PICKANDS sailed on her maiden voyage April 14, 1926 clearing Lorain for Toledo, OH to load coal. The GLENEAGLES lost her self-unloading boom April 14, 1977 while unloading at the C.S.L. stone dock at Humberstone, Ont. On April 14, 1984, vessels around the Great Lakes were battling one of the worst season openers for ice in recent memory. The Ernest R. Breech (now Kinsman Independent) and the Herbert C. Jackson spent the entire day battling ice off the Duluth entry, while the St. Clair River was choked with ice. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Collision at the Soo update 04/13: The 646-foot Agawa Canyon and the 406-foot Emerald Star left the Soo about 3:15 p.m. Officials from the Coast Guard and Transport Canada are still trying to determine how the ships collided at the locks. The collision left a “clearly visible crease” in the Emerald Star’s hull. Reported by: Al Miller |
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SYKES leaves the Bluewater Area 04/13: Reported by: Ray Bawal Jr. |
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Port of Toledo Update 04/13: Reported by: J. R. Hoffman |
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Seaway News 04/13: The first new saltie of the year, TECAM SEA is back from the Lakes since April 7 when she was downbound for Sorel. Several lakers and othe canadian ships are still laid up in Montréal Reported by: René Beauchamp |
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Pathfinder Visits Marine City 04/13: The port of Marine City has been relatively busy so for this season with the OLIVE MOORE / MCKEE SONS, and JOSEPH H FRANTZ, and FRED R WHITE JR having unloaded cargoes over the past few weeks at this location. Reported by: Ray Bawal Jr. |
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Unusual visitor to Lake Ontario 04/13: Reported by: Ron Walsh |
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Pathfinder visits McLouth 04/13: Reported by: John Meyland & Dave Michelson |
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Sloan Delivers first load 04/13: Reported by: Jack Heider |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 13 The RICHARD REISS lost her boom April 13, 1994 when it collapsed at Fairport, OH. The GEORGE M. HUMPHREY (2) struck a shoal in Whitefish Bay, near Gros Cap, April 13, 1956, when forced off channel in a shifting ice pack, and nearly sank. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 12 NANCY ORR GAUCHER was launched April 12, 1967 as the a) LANA. Fuel Tanker LAKESHELL (3) was launched April 12, 1969. The A.A AUGUSTUS departed Cleveland on her maiden voyage April 12, 1910 bound for Green Bay, WI with a load of coal. HUDSON TRANSPORT was launched April 12, 1962. On April 12, 1955 while upbound from Monroe, MI to load iron ore at Duluth, the ENDERS M. VOORHEES had the honor of opening the second century of navigation through the St. Marys Falls Ship Canal which was celebrated with great pomp and ceremony. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Collision at the Soo 04/11: The 604-foot Agawa Canyon reportedly suffered minor damage. Both vessels were forced to tie up to undergo Coast Guard inspection. No injuries were reported. The Emerald Star, a tanker, was empty and did not leak any pollutants, the Coast Guard reported. The Coast Guard told the newspaper that the 406-foot Emerald Star was exiting the Poe Lock upbound and destined for Thunder Bay. The Agawa Canyon was downbound heading into the MacArthur Lock. It was carrying Potash from Thunder Bay to Burns Harbor. The two vessels collided just outside the locks. “The Emerald Star wasn’t all the way out of the locks,” said Petty Officer Dan Spisso.”But it was existing when this occurred. I’m not really sure how it happened. That’s what’s being investigated.” “(The Emerald Star) wasn’t gas-free, which makes for a volatile situation with the fumes,” Spisso said. “They’re more dangerous when they’re empty, collision-wise.” Reported by: Al Miller |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 11 IMPERIAL ST. CLAIR entered service on April 11, 1974 light for Montreal, Que. The J.W. McGIFFIN was christened at Collingwood on April 11, 1972. The PHILIP D. BLOCK sailed on her maiden voyage April 11, 1925 with coal from Huron, OH bound for delivery at Indiana Harbor, IN. The A.E. NETTLETON was launched April 11, 1908. On April 11, 1970 in Lake Superior’s Whitefish Bay the STADACONA (3) encountered thick ice and suffered bow damage. She developed a hairline crack in her bow and to alleviate the leakage her cargo was shifted from her forward hold to her after compartments with her self-unloading equipment. This maneuver raised her bow enough to keep her from sinking before she reached safety. ENDERS M. VOORHEES was launched April 11, 1942 . On April 11, 1964 while upbound on Whitefish Bay, Lake Superior, a boiler burst on board the WILLIAM A. IRVIN killing one of the crew and injuring two others. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Bubbles 04/10: Reported by: J. Duchario |
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News From the Twin Ports 04/10: A couple of unusual port calls are scheduled for vessels in Great Lakes Fleet. Philip R. Clarke will load at Ashtabula for delivery to Wyandotte on April 12, and George A. Sloan is due at Alabaster on April 10. Adam E. Cornelius is back on its regular run to the DMIR ore dock in Duluth. It’s next call is set for April 9 Reported by: Al Miller |
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All Canada Steamship Lines boats sailing 04/10: Reported by: J.J. Van Volkenburg |
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Dinner Meeting 04/10: Click here for more information |
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Update on Lake Ontario Regulation 04/10: As mentioned in our previous report, the gates at the Iroquois Dam were at their smallest ever open setting on March 30 to suppress the extremely high water levels on Lake St. Lawrence. With the steady increases in the flow at the power dam at Cornwall/Massena since April 5, conditions on Lake St. Lawrence and above Iroquois Dam (Cardinal, Ontario, for example) have been gradually improving. As a result, a larger open setting at the Iroquois Dam was made yesterday, and another larger setting later to-day. We expect the Iroquois Dam will return to its fully open position within the next few days. The flow of the Ottawa River to the Montreal area appeared to have peaked early this week. However, the flow remains very high and is currently about 6100 m3/s. The rapid decline in the flows of other tributaries into Lake St. Louis and downstream helped make flow increases at Cornwall possible since Sunday. Yesterday?s daily Lake Ontario level reading was 75.42 m, about 59 cm higher than average for this time of year. The level under strict application of Plan 1958-D would now be about 76.15 m. The computed Lake Ontario level under unregulated conditions would now be about 75.95 m, which is 53 cm higher than actual. The weather forecasts call for mostly sunny sky for the next four days. Have a happy Easter weekend. Reported by: John Whitehead |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 10 TEXACO CHIEF (2) was christened April 10, 1969. The GODERICH (1) was sold April 10, 1963 to the Algoma Central & Hudson Bay Railway Co. and renamed e) AGAWA (2). The keel was laid April 10, 1952 for the WILLIAM CLAY FORD (1) The SINCLAIR GREAT LAKES was christened on April 10, 1963 On April 10, 1973 the ARTHUR B. HOMER departed the shipyard with a new pilot house. She had suffered extensive damage the previous fall in a head on collision on the Detroit River. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Pathfinder Visits Saginaw 04/09: Reported by: Dan Maus |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 09 On April 9, 1960, the Murray Bay (1) (now Comeaudoc) entered service as the first Canadian 730-footer. The LAWRENDOC (2) was christened jointly with her Collingwood-built sister ship MONDOC (3) on April 9, 1962. The Wilson Marine Transit Co., Cleveland purchased the FINLAND on April 9, 1957 and resold her the same day to the Republic Steel Corp., Cleveland with Wilson Marine acting as manager Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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More Lower Lakes Activity 04/08: Reported by: Rob Cioletti and John Belliveau |
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News From the Twin Ports 04/08: The arrival April 6 of the Twin Ports’ first saltie of the season — Federal St. Laurent — was quickly followed by the April 7 arrival of Spar Jade for the Peavey Connors Point elevator in Superior John J. Boland, last of the Twin Ports winter layup fleet, is scheduled to depart Fraser Shipyards today to load taconite pellets at the DMIR dock in Duluth. Reported by: Al Miller |
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Know Your Ships 1998 04/08: |
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First Saltie Arrives in Detroit 04/08: John Jamian, Executive Director and Steven Olinek, Deputy Director of the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority (DWCPA) will welcome the Lithuanian-flagged vessel. The Kapitonas Kminskas sailed from Klaipeda, Lithuania via Norway, via Montreal through the Seaway bound for Detroit. Its cargo contains steel coils that will be unloaded at Nicholson Terminal & Dock Co. The Port Authority will make a formal presentation to the ship’s master, Captain Povela as well as the Hasserodt Marine Agency, Ltd. and Nicholson Terminal & Dock Co. honoring them for the opening of Detroit’s international shipping season. The 1998 shipping season follows a very good 1997 season for Detroit in which cumulative international tonnage figures exceeded one million metric tons. Detroit was the largest importer of steel and the second largest exporter of bulk products on the Great Lakes last year. If you would like additional information pertaining to this event, please contact April Dawson at 313-331-3842. Reported by: Marine Historical Society of Detroit |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 08 The sea trials for the AMERICAN REPUBLIC were conducted in Green Bay on April 8-10, May 4-11 and 18, 1981. The J.A. CAMPBELL was the first bulk carrier to load taconite pellets that were shipped from Reverve Minings Davis Works at Silver Bay MN on April 8, 1956. On April 8, 1957 Great Lakes Steamship stock holders voted to sell the entire 16 ship fleet to four fleets. On April 8, 1977 at Toledo the G.A. TOMLINSON required an estimated $235,000 to outfit her machinery for the up coming season. The R.E. WEBSTER was launched April 8, 1905 as a) ELBERT H. GARY. On April 8, 1969, LEON FALK, JR. entered Duluth harbor to become the first vessel to arrive from the lower lake region opening the 1969 shipping season at the head of the lakes. She loaded almost 20,700 tons of iron ore bound for Great Lakes Steel in Detroit. The ELBERT H. GARY was launched on April 8, 1905. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Enerchem Refiner Freed 04/07: Reported by: René Beauchamp |
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Incredible Start For 1998 Stone Trade 04/07: 453,292 net tons were shipped last month compared to only 18,869 net tons in March 1997. Reported by: Lake Carriers’ Association |
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Holland’s Season Opener 04/07: The Ogelbay Norton info tape indicated that the Fred White was to load in Toledo yesterday for Holland. It is expected that her cargo will be the first load of coal for the season for the James De Young power plant. The shorerline in Holland may be in for a change this year. Verplank’s has acquired the old cement silos at the foot of Dock Street, east of their facility. They plan to demolish them in order to expand their dock sspace here. No timetable has been announced, but they have already received the required approvals from the city’s Zoning Board of Appeals. Reported by: Bob Vande Vusse |
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More on the Majestic Star 04/07: Reported by: René Beauchamp |
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Monday’s Update on Lake Ontario Regulation 04/07: The series of drastic flow reductions during the period of March 28-31, from near maximum flow (10200 m3/s) to near minimum flow, were in response to the rapidly rising flood conditions downstream on Lake St. Louis, Montreal Harbour and the St. Lawrence River downstream. The snow melt in the Ottawa River basin and other tributaries flowing into the St. Lawrence River, along the reach that extends from Lake St. Lawrence to Lake St. Pierre, occurred much earlier and at a much faster rate than usual. As the flows at the Moses-Saunders power dam (at Cornwall/Massena) were being reduced, the water levels upstream of the dam on Lake St. Lawrence rose rapidly. It was necessary to partially close the Iroquois Dam (about 60 km upstream of the power dam) to suppress the Lake St. Lawrence levels. On March 30, the Iroquois Dam opening was reduced to the smallest ever on record, with several gates completely closed. While the partial closure of the Iroquois Dam helped moderate the Lake St. Lawrence levels somewhat, the levels at Saunders Headwater peaked at 74.20 m on April 3, and was close to flood stage. The water level immediately upstream of the Iroquois Dam was also very high. Though not a flood stage, the very high water levels caused some inconvenience to one industry at Cardinal. Lake St. Louis at Pointe Claire was above flood stage during March 28-31, while Montreal Harbour level rose above flood stage on March 30. As soon as the level at Montreal Harbour fell below flood stage on April 5, the Lake Ontario outflow was increased to 5100 m3/s. This morning, with downstream conditions continuing to improve, the outflow was increased to 5500 m3/s. All the tributaries flowing into the critical sections of the St. Lawrence River have peaked and it is likely that the Ottawa River flow near Montreal has also peaked this past weekend. Steady increases in the Lake Ontario outflow are expected from now on to ensure maximum possible flows in order to slow the rising levels on Lake Ontario and minimize the spring peak level. According to information provided by the Seaway authorities, 24 ships transited the Lake Ontario – Montreal section of the St. Lawrence River between March 26 and March 31. A number of ships were delayed because strict cargo, vessel and traffic restrictions were in place for the first three days while the flow in the river was 10200 m3/s. With the flow at the Cornwall-Massena power dam reduced starting March 28 to relieve downstream flooding, the fast currents that were restricting navigation in the St. Lawrence River above Cornwall-Massena were reduced. The Seaway authorities lifted their restrictions on March 28, and normal navigation began on March 29. Yesterday’s daily Lake Ontario level reading was 75.36 m, about 53 cm higher than average for this time of year. The level under strict application of Plan 1958-D would now be about 76.13 m. The computed Lake Ontario level under unregulated conditions would now be about 75.92 m, which is 56 cm higher than actual. Reported by: John Whitehead |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 07 The CANADIAN TRANSPORT (2) was christened April 7, 1979. The tanker ROBERT W. STEWART (b AMOCO MICHIGAN) was delivered to Standard Oil Co. on April 7, 1928 as the second largest tanker in service at the time of her launch. JAMES LAUGHLIN was launched April 7, 1906. The EMORY L. FORD was sold on April 7, 1965 to the Reiss Steamship Co. and renamed b) RAYMOND H. REISS, the last boat purchased by Reiss. TEXACO BRAVE (1) arrived at Ramey’s Bend from Toronto April 7, 1975 in tow of tugs G.W. ROGERS and BAGOTVILLE for scrapping. In 1974 the THOMAS W. LAMONT loaded the initial shipment of ore for the season at the D.M. & I.R. ore docks in Duluth. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Enerchem Refiner Aground in Seaway Update 04/06: You may recall she was the first canadian ship upbound in the Seaway this year when she transited at St. Lambert lock on March 27 bound in ballast for Sarnia. Reported by:René Beauchamp |
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News From the Twin Ports 04/06: The first saltie into Duluth-Superior this year is expected to be Federal St. Laurent arriving about noon today. The ship is going to the AGP grain elevator in Duluth to load 19,800 tons of spring wheat bound for Seaforth, England. The AGP elevator has seen little use in recent years, although last year it was busier than usual and most of the customers seemed to be Fednav vessels. Two more vessels from Great Lakes Fleet are now under way. George A. Sloan departed Superior on April 2 to load at Two Harbors with ore bound for Gary. Myron C. Taylor was loading at Calcite April 3 with stone for Cleveland. St. Lawrence Cement in Duluth received its first caller of the season April 2 when Algontario arrive to unload. Canadian Ranger arrived in Superior April 2 to become the first ship of the season to load at Harvest States elevator. Reported by: Al Miller |
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Comeaudoc at the Wall 04/06: Reported by:Todd L. Davidson |
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Gambling Vessel to stop in Montreal 04/06: Reported by:René Beauchamp |
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Bittern Arrives for Season 04/06: Reported by:Ron Walsh |
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McKee Sons Visits Marine City 04/06: Reported by:Ron Black |
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Oglebay Norton Annouces Fleet Officers for 1998 04/06: The Captains and Chief Engineers assigned to the 12 vessels of the Oglebay Norton fleet for 1998 are:
Reported by: Dave Wobser |
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Seaway Self Unloaders opens 1998 Season 04/06: In July, the conversion of the 730-foot ALGOWEST is scheduled for completion at Port Weller Dry Docks, and in August the conversion of the 650-foot CANADIAN TRANSFER is expected to be finished, also in Port Weller, expanding the fleet to 22. Those appointed as captains and chief engineers of the Algoma central owned carriers including those assigned to SSU for the 1998 season are:
Reported by: Dave Wobser |
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Update on Lake Ontario Regulation 04/06: Exceptionally warm weather, beginning this past weekend, resulted in rapid snow melt, high inflows and a sudden rise in water levels on Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. Heavy rainfall during the week also compounded the flooding problem in the Montreal area. To provide a measure of relief from the serious flood conditions on Lake St. Louis and elsewhere in the Montreal area, the International St. Lawrence River Board of Control directed a series of large reductions in Lake Ontario outflows. The rapid snow melt caused record high flows in some of the tributaries to Lake St. Louis and Lake St. Peter near Montreal. Lake St. Louis began to rise abruptly late on March 27 and exceeded flood stage the next day. The spring melt in the lower portion of the Ottawa River basin, which was also brought on by the warm weather, has resulted in high flows to the Montreal area that have come much earlier than usual. Heavy rainfall during the week also exacerbated flooding conditions on Lake St. Louis and brought significant moisture to the Lake Ontario and the Ottawa River basins. Since late December 1997, the International St. Lawrence River Board of Control has been releasing as much water as possible from Lake Ontario without causing ice jams or flooding downstream. A short ice season this winter has allowed the Board to achieve record outflows during the month of March of 10,200 cubic metres per second (360,000 cubic feet per second), which was the flow until March 27. Beginning on March 28, the series of large flow changes was initiated, which brought the outflow to a record low of 4,700 cms (166,000 cfs) by March 31. In spite of the drastic flow reductions, the levels of Lake St. Louis and the Montreal Harbour rose above flood stage. The large Lake Ontario outflow reductions also resulted in high water levels on Lake St. Lawrence. To prevent the water from rising above flood stage on Lake St. Lawrence, gates at the Iroquois Dam have been set at an all time minimum open setting. The level of Lake Ontario has risen nine centimetres (3.5 inches) since March 28 when Lake Ontario outflows were reduced to alleviate flooding in the Montreal area. The lake is presently at 75.26 metres (246.92 feet) above sea level, 50 centimetres (20 inches) above average. The International Joint Commission notes that the flows to Lake Ontario from Lake Erie will remain high for the foreseeable future. Depending on precipitation during the next few weeks, Lake Ontario could rise another 10 to 30 centimetres (four to 12 inches). The International Joint Commission advises shoreline communities to prepare for the potential continuation of high water levels and other users of the system to prepare for the potential of high flows in the St. Lawrence River. The Board continues to monitor conditions closely on a continual basis and will adjust the flows as needed to provide all possible relief from high water on Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. The International Joint Commission was created under the Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909 to help prevent and resolve disputes over the use of waters along the Canada-United States boundary. Its responsibilities include approving certain projects that would change water levels on the other side of the boundary. If it approves a project, the Commission’s Orders of Approval may require that flows through the project meet certain conditions to protect interests in both countries. For more information, visit www.ijc.org on the Worldwide Web. The International St. Lawrence River Board of Control was established by the Commission in its 1952 Order of Approval. Its main duty is to ensure that outflows from Lake Ontario meet the requirements of the Commission’s Orders. The Board also develops regulation plans and conducts special studies as requested by the Commission. For more information, visit www.islrbc.org/ on the Worldwide Web. Provisional water level gauge readings, updated every three hours, can be found at www.opsd.nos.noaa.gov on the Worldwide Web. Reported by: John Whitehead |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 06 ALGOLAKE was christened April 6, 1977, she was the first maximum-sized ship of this type in Algoma’s fleet with all cabins aft. The HON. PAUL MARTIN departed Collingwood April 6, 1985 on her maiden voyage to load grain at Thunder Bay, Ont. bound for Quebec City, Que. She was the largest vessel built at Collingwood as a result of the new Seaway egulations that allowed increased hull lengths beyond the previous maximum overall of 730′ to transit the lock systems. PRAIRIE HARVEST (c) MELVIN H. BAKER II) sailed on her maiden voyage in 1984. On April 6, 1990 CANADOC (2) was laid up at Montreal, Que. never to sail again. NOTRE DAME VICTORY (b CLIFFS VICTORY) was delivered to Interocean Steamship Co. on April 6, 1945 under charter from the U.S.M.C. FERNDALE (2) was launched April 6, 1912 as a) LOUIS R. DAVIDSON Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 05 On April 5, 1984 the joined sections of the HILDA MARJANNE and CHIMO’s emerged from the Port Weller Dry Dock as the b) CANADIAN RANGER. Sea trials for the PRAIRIE HARVEST (c) MELVIN H. BAKER II) were complete on April 5, 1984. The G.G. POST was launched April 5, 1902 as a) LUZON Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Enerchem Refiner Aground in Seaway 04/04: Reported by: Jim LeBlanc |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 04 The keel was laid April 4, 1978 for the Fred R. White Jr. Sea trials of the tanker ROBERT W. STEWART were run on April 4, 1928 CEDARGLEN was launched on April 4, 1925 as a) WILLIAM C. ATWATER HARRY W. CROFT was launched April 4, 1908 as a) FRED G. HARTWELL (1) The E.G. GRACE became the first Maritimer to be sold for scrap when she was sold to Marine Salvage April 4, 1984. JEAN-TALON was launched April 4, 1936 as a) FRANQUELIN (1) The Harbor Tug and Fire Boat EDNA G. was launched April 4, 1896 On April 4, 1983 and on April 4, 1984, the William Clay Ford (1) opened the inter-lake shipping season at Duluth. While the William Clay Ford was traditionally among the first vessels to visit Duluth-Superior, it was coincidence that she opened the port on the same day during her last two seasons in service. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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News From the Twin Ports 04/03: Canadian ships, once a rarity at Midwest Energy Resources in Superior, are becoming steady customers. Canadian Transport loaded April 1 and Canadian Olympic is due in April 2, followed by Canadian Enterprise on April 1. Cleveland-Cliffs is pondering whether to build a pig iron plant at its Northshore Mining Co. taconite plant in Silver Bay, Minn. A Cliffs spokesman said the company is “in the preliminary stages of evaluation” of the project. Pig iron contains about 95.5 percent iron, compared to 87 percent iron in direct reduced iron and about 66 percent in taconite pellets. . Reported by: Al Miller |
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News From Thunder Bay 04/03: The M/V CANADIAN RANGER departed her winter layup berth at Pascol yesterday at 7:15 pm.She went to anchor off the North Piers for ballasting and waiting for the weather to clear. She is headed to Duluth. Reported by: Ron Konkol |
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Medusa Fleet resumes fit out 04/03: Medusa was bought by Southdown Inc last month and all work had stopped on the vessels. Reported by: Andy LaBorde |
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U.S. Harbor Maintenance Tax unconstitutional 04/03: The Supreme Court’s decision, written by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, said that the tax “does not qualify as a permissible user fee.” The U.S. Constitution bans taxes on exports but not user fees. Ginsburg wrote that the tax “is not a fair approximation of services, facilities or benefits furnished to the exporters.” The decision also stated: “This does not mean that exporters are exempt from any and all user fees designed to defray the cost of harbor development and maintenanec. It does mean, however, that such a fee must fairly match the exporters’ use of port services and facilities.” A tax of 0.125 percent is levied on the value of any cargoes handled at U.S. ports. Importers pay the fee along with customs duties but exporters and domestic shippers, who do not pay duties, paid the harbor tax on a quarterly basis. The issue reached the Supreme Court in United States v. United States Shoe Corp., No. 97-372. United States Shoe had challenged the tax by filing a refund lawsuit in the U.S. Court of International Trade. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Lauzon Dry Docks divested to Davie Industries 04/03: The government will pay Canadian$20 million/U.S.$14 million for repair work to the dry docks as well as projected net operating costs. In return, Davie Industries must keep the dry docks operating for 10 years. The Lorne dry dock was built between 1878 and September 1886 while the Champlain dry dock was constructed from 1914 to 1918. They were leased on an as needed basis by Davie Industries, which is the sole user and also owns the adjacent land. The company also leases 5.1 hectares/12.5 acres at present. The Lorne dry dock is in fairly good condition, according to the government, but is often too small for many projects. While the Champlain dyry dock is twice as large, it needs significant repairs. A total of C$12 million/U.S.$8.5 million would need to be invested for continued government operation, but C$6.2 million/U.S.$4.4 million has been lost over the past seven years. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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American Republic finds Body 04/03: Reported by: Rex Cassidy |
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Port Stanley’s Commercial Fishing 04/03: Yellow Perch 829,812 LBS Total Fish Caught 11,846,435 LBS Lake Erie Wide Value In Fish Caught- Reported by: Richard Hill |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 03 On April 3, 1991 the pilothouse of the WILLIAM CLAY FORD (1) was moved by barge towed by Gaelic tug’s CAROLYN HOEY and placed on a specially built foundation at the Dossin Museum for display facing the Detroit River as a fully equipped pilot house. LIQUILASSIE was launched April 3, 1943 as a) TEMBLADOR. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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News Delay 04/02: |
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Twin Ports Activity 04/02: Halifax brought the first load of grain to the Twin Ports April 1, unloading at Cargill B2 in Duluth. The vessel presented an interesting sight in its relatively new red paint job. Reported by: Al Miller |
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Pathfinder in Detroit 04/02: Reported by: John Belliveau |
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Cuyahoga loads at Wharf 12 04/02: Reported by: J. J. Van Volkenburg |
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Toledo Update 04/02: Joseph H. Frantz planned departure date from Torco dock in Toledo is today, Thursday 4/2/98 Reported by: John Belliveau |
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Sarnia Empty 04/02: Reported by: Jim Luke |
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Norris above the Locks 04/02: This was her first trip on Lake Superior since 1995 when she visited Marquette and loaded taconite for the Soo. Reported by: Ron Konkol and Rod Burdick |
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First New Saltie 04/02: Reported by: René Beauchamp |
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Algonova being painted 04/02: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Erie-built cutter decommissioned 04/02: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Bid made for Dominion Bridge 04/02: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Welland Canal open for 1998 shipping season 04/02: Prominent members of the marine industry joined St. Lawrence Seaway Authority representatives and the public for the traditional Top Hat ceremony at Lock 3. The Top Hat was presented to Capt. Mark Leaney, master of the S. S. Canadian Leader. His was the first up-bound ship into Lock 3 in St. Catharines. St. Lawrence Seaway Authority Acting President Michel Fournier officially declared the Canal open for the 1998 navigation season. “Our 1997 season was highly successful,” said Fournier. “We moved nearly 50 million combined tonnes through the Montreal-to-Lake Ontario and the Welland Canal sections of the Seaway. We remain optimistic for 1998, and anticipate strong cargo movements throughout the year.” Fournier also acknowledged the hard work of Seaway employees and contractors in Niagara, where some 30 major contracts, part of the Seaway Authority’s $16 million asset renewal program, were completed this winter. “Because of their efforts, we are able to open a week earlier than scheduled.” Upper Lakes Group Inc. President Marcel Rivard congratulated Capt. Leaney, Chief Engineer Claudin Tremblay, and crew of the S.S. Canadian Leader, a member of the Upper Lakes fleet, on opening the Welland for the second time since the Leader was built. “On behalf of Upper Lakes Group, I would also like to offer our best wishes to the Welland Canal, its operators and all its users for a safe and prosperous season,” said Rivard. News of the announcement by Canada Steamship Lines Ltd., Montreal, Que., of a $100 million contract to St. Catharines, Ont.-based Canadian Shipbuilding & Engineering created renewed optimism in the Niagara marine community. The significant investment will ensure a minimum of 300 jobs year-round for the next three years at CSE’s Port Weller Dry Docks, where work on the CSL fleet renewal program will take place. The S. S. Canadian Leader is travelling up-bound in ballast to Duluth, Minn., the vessel will load 26,500 metric tonnes of U.S. grain bound for Baie Comeau, Que. Capt. Leaney resides in Port Colborne, Ont. He has been sailing with Upper Lakes Group since 1974, and was appointed Master in 1984. This is his first season as Master of the Leader. The ceremony on the Welland is the longest-running Top Hat ceremony on the Canadian Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway system. Tuesday marked the beginning of the canal’s 170th consecutive navigation season, tying early opening records set in 1980 and 1995. The schooner Anne and Jane made the first transit of the original Welland Canal in 1829. The Welland Canal links Lakes Ontario and Erie, and is part of the 3,700-kilometre St. Lawrence Seaway, which opened in 1959 and provides uninterrupted navigation nine months each year from Duluth, Minn. and Thunder Bay, Ont. to the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Reported by: Marine Historical Society of Detroit |
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Update on Lake Ontario Regulation 04/02: As mentioned in last Thursday?s update, Seaway navigation between Lake Ontario and Montreal began on March 26, with cargo, vessel and traffic restrictions in effect. The Lake Ontario outflow was maintained at 10200 m3/s when navigation resumed. Early on March 28 (Saturday), Lake St. Louis level began to rise abruptly. The first reduction in the Lake Ontario outflow took place early that morning. For the rest of the day and through Sunday, a series of large flow reductions took place, with the objective of preventing flood levels on Lake St. Louis. However, even with these reductions, we could not keep up with the rapidly rising inflows. By Sunday, the flow of the Ottawa River reached 5000 m3/s (on March 26 the actual flow was about 1580 m3/s). Later that night, the flow of the Chateauguay River into Lake St. Louis apparently reached 1180 m3/s, which would be a new record maximum flow (on March 27 the actual flow was 50 m3/s). Lake St. Louis at Pointe Claire began to exceed the 22.2 m mark in the morning of March 28, and remained at about 22.3 m the rest of that day. On March 29, the levels stayed at about 22.33 m during the day but rose further starting that evening such that, by early this morning, it reached 22.40 m. The flood level of Lake St. Louis is 22.33 m. At noon today, the Lake Ontario outflow was reduced to 5600 m3/s. The series of flow reductions at the Moses-Saunders hydropower dam at Cornwall/Massena the last two days have resulted in extremely high water levels on Lake St. Lawrence. Though not at flood stage, they are beginning to generate calls from local riparians. To suppress the water levels on Lake St. Lawrence, the gates at the Iroquois Dam were partially closed early this morning, with gate settings at the lowest point ever (a new record minimum open setting). At noon today, the Lake St. Lawrence level at Long Sault is at elevation 74.07 m, and may rise further due to the westerly wind and the flow reduction at noon. The Iroquois Dam opening is being reduced further. The river level immediately above the Iroquois Dam is also rising. Close monitoring of the situation continues. Yesterday’s daily Lake Ontario level reading was 75.18 m, about 43 cm higher than average for this time of year. Reported by: John Whitehead |
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A sick day well spent 04/02: Reported by: Andrew Severson |
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Correction 04/02: Reported by: René Beauchamp |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 02 On April 2, 1951 CLIFFS VICTORY was towed, bound for New Orleans, LA, with her deck houses, stack, propeller, rudder and above deck fittings stored on or below her spar deck for bridge clearance. She was outfitted with two 120 foot pontoons, which were built at the Baltimore yard, that were attached to her hull at the stern to reduce her draft to eight feet for passage in the shallow sections of the river/canal system. LEON FALK, JR was launched April 2, 1945 as a) WINTER HILL, a T2-SE-Al World War II single screw fuel tanker for U.S. Maritime Commission. CLIFFORD F. HOOD was launched April 2, 1902 as the straight deck Bulk Freighter a) BRANSFORD. The SENATOR OF CANADA sailed under her own power on April 2, 1985 to Toronto, Ont. where she was put into ordinary next to her fleetmate the QUEDOC (2). She was later scrapped in Venezuela. The WHEAT KING was lengthened by an addition of a 172’6″ mid-section (Hull #61) and received a 1000 hp bowthruster. This work reportedly cost $3.8 million Cdn and was completed on April 2, 1976. On April 2, 1953, the J.L. Mauthe (now Pathfinder (3) entered service. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Flash Back 1970 April 1, 1970, U.S. Steel boats Callaway, Clarke and Anderson wait in Soo Harbor for the locks to open for the season. The Naugatuck is at right (the Clarke was the official first boat). Although the first trips may have been easy the rest of the month wasn’t — ice jams delayed lockings by as much as 36 hours, and the Canada Steamship Lines Stadacona was nearly lost after her hull was punctured by ice in Whitefish Bay The master bailed out the incoming water with the self-unoading equipment, according to an article in the Soo Evening News. Reported by: Roger LeLievre |
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Today in Great Lakes History – April 01, 1998 The a) STEWART J. CORT was commissioned on April 1,1972. In April 1965, the J.A. CAMPBELL was renamed c) BUCKEYE MONITOR. Realizing that the bulk trades were too competitive, Captain John Roen’s Roen Transportation Co. sold the CAPTAIN JOHN ROEN to the American Steamship Co. (Boland & Cornelius, mgr.) on April 1, 1947 for $915,000. The ROY A. JODREY started her first full season opening navigation at the Soo Locks April 1, 1966 with a load of stone for Algoma Steel. Dismantling of the G.A. TOMLINSON (2) began on April 1, 1980 and was completed eight months later in December. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |