BARNHART ISLAND

• USMSS
• Latitude: 45.0006
• Longitude: -74.8589
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Barnhart Island is located in the St. Lawrence River in the state of New York, and it's part of the Town of Massena. The island is notable for its scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and proximity to the Eisenhower Lock, which is part of the St. Lawrence Seaway system. This seaway allows oceangoing vessels to travel from the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes.

Marine Port Description

Location:

• Barnhart Island is positioned in the northern part of New York state, near the Canadian border.
• The island is part of the township of Massena, which directly borders the St. Lawrence River.

Accessibility:

• The island can be accessed by road via the South Grasse River Bridge from mainland New York.
• Proximity to the Eisenhower Lock ensures that the port has a strategic advantage for marine operations, particularly those involving large vessels transitioning between the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Lakes.

Facilities:

• Eisenhower Lock: Close proximity allows for operational support and oversight.
• Marinas: Available for smaller recreational vessels, providing docking and maintenance services.
• Recreational Areas: The island features several parks and recreational facilities for visitors.

Port Specifications

Navigation:

• Channel Depth: The St. Lawrence Seaway and associated channels have varying depths, designed to accommodate the draft of large oceangoing vessels.
• Pilotage Requirements: Depending on the type and size of the vessel, pilotage may be mandatory through the seaway and at the lock.

Cargo and Ship Types:

• Bulk Cargo: Often involving cargo like grains, iron ore, coal, or petroleum products.
• Container Ships: Transit through the seaway system is often limited to smaller container vessels due to size restrictions.
• Recreational Boats: Extensive facilities for private and smaller commercial vessels.

Infrastructure:

• The local infrastructure supports marine operations with necessary facilities including refueling, minor repairs, and essential services.
• Critical support facilities such as warehouses, berths, and crew amenities are available in adjacent areas.

Regulations & Security:

• The port area, being part of the larger Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System, is governed by U.S. and Canadian maritime regulations.
• Security measures typically include coordinating with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Coast Guard, and local law enforcement.

Environmental Considerations:

• Given its location, stringent environmental protections are in place to preserve the natural beauty and ecological health of the St. Lawrence River.
• Regulations are in force to control water pollution, protect local wildlife habitats, and manage waste generated by marine operations.

Tourism and Recreation

Barnhart Island is also known for its recreational opportunities:

• Camping and Hiking: Available at Robert Moses State Park, which is partially located on the island.
• Fishing and Boating: Popular activities due to the island's access to the St. Lawrence River.
• Wildlife Observation: The island is a habitat for various bird species and other wildlife, making it a destination for nature enthusiasts.

Overall, Barnhart Island serves both as a strategic spot within the St. Lawrence Seaway network and as a destination for recreation and tourism.