ESSEXVILLE
- Latitude: 43.6161
- Longitude: -83.8439
- Great Lakes
- Port in US
Address: US
Essexville is a city located in Bay County in the state of Michigan, United States. It is part of the Bay City Metropolitan Statistical Area and lies on the Saginaw River near its mouth into the Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron. While Essexville itself is relatively small, it plays a notable role in the region's maritime activities, primarily due to its proximity to the more industrialized Bay City.
Port of Essexville - Overview
Location
- Latitude: Approximately 43.6150° N
- Longitude: Approximately 83.8420° W
Access
- Waterway: Saginaw River, leading into Saginaw Bay and Lake Huron
- Road Access: Close to U.S. Route 10 and Interstate 75
- Rail Access: Rail connections through nearby Bay City
- Air Access: Nearest major airport is MBS International Airport (approximately 15 miles away)
Port Facilities and Specifications
Docking and Berthing
- Berths: Several berths available for both commercial and industrial use.
- Draft Depth: Typically ranges around 8 to 25 feet, but specific depths should be verified based on current dredging and water levels.
- Dock Types: Combination of bulk cargo docks, general cargo docks, and some specialized berths for specific industrial use.
Cargo Handling
- Types of Cargo: Primarily bulk cargo such as coal, limestone, cement, and other raw materials.
- Equipment: Cranes, conveyer systems, and other bulk material handling equipment.
- Storage: Limited on-site storage, with additional facilities located nearby in Bay City.
Services and Support
- Tug Services: Available for assisting large vessels with maneuvering.
- Pilots: Qualified maritime pilots available for navigation assistance.
- Ship Repairs: Basic repair services are available with more comprehensive services located in adjacent areas.
Other Facilities
- Tank Farms: Some tank storage is available near the port, primarily for industrial use.
- Utilities: Full range of utilities including freshwater supply and waste disposal services.
Economic and Industrial Role
- Primary Industries Supported: Power generation (Consumers Energy has a significant presence in the area), cement production, agricultural products, and various manufacturing inputs.
- Economic Impact: Contributes significantly to the local economy by supporting industrial activities and providing jobs related to maritime logistics and supply chain operations.
Environmental and Regulatory Aspects
- Environmental Regulations: Subject to U.S. federal and state environmental regulations, including those enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).
- Sustainability: Efforts are generally made to minimize environmental impact, however, specific initiatives vary by operator.
Future Developments
- Potential Expansion: There are plans in discussions for expanding port facilities to increase capacity and modernize equipment, depending on economic conditions and demand.
- Technological Upgrades: Investments in improved logistics software and automation are potential areas of development.
Summary
The marine port facilities in Essexville support a range of industrial and commercial activities centered around bulk cargo handling. The port's strategic location near the Saginaw River and Bay City enhances its logistical advantages, while supporting vital local industries and contributing to regional economic stability.