PASCAGOULA
- Latitude: 30.3542 •
- Longitude: -88.5441 •
- Gulf of Mexico •
- Port in US
Address: US
Pascagoula Marine Port, Mississippi, USA
Overview
Pascagoula is a significant marine port situated on the Gulf Coast of the United States in Jackson County, Mississippi. It is strategically important for both commercial shipping and military logistics, given its prime location and facilities. The Port of Pascagoula is the largest port in Mississippi and ranks among the largest ports in the United States by cargo volume. It serves as a key gateway for the import and export of goods, particularly in the bulk cargo sectors such as petroleum, chemicals, and forest products.
Location
- Coordinates: Approximately 30.3538° N latitude, 88.5632° W longitude
- Climate Zone: Humid subtropical region, experiencing mild winters and hot, humid summers, which can affect port operations, particularly during hurricane season.
Infrastructure
Terminals:
- East Bank Terminal: Situated on the east bank of the Pascagoula River, handling mainly liquid bulk cargo.
- West Bank Terminal: Located on the west bank, primarily utilized for forest products, general cargo, and containers.
- Bayou Casotte Terminal: A deep-water terminal, often used for bulk and breakbulk cargo including petroleum products, chemicals, and LNG.
Facilities:
- Berths: Multiple berths across various terminals tailored for different types of cargo.
- Cargo Handling: Modern equipment for the loading and unloading of containerized, bulk, and project cargoes.
- Warehousing: Ample storage facilities including covered warehouses and open storage yards.
- Rail Access: Connectivity with major railroads for efficient inland transportation.
- Road Access: Proximate to Interstate and state highways facilitating smooth freight movement.
- Cranes: High-capacity cranes including mobile harbor cranes and gantry cranes for efficient cargo handling.
Services
- Customs and Immigration: Full customs services for the clearance of goods.
- Pilotage: Mandatory pilotage for vessels entering and exiting the port.
- Towing and Tug Services: Available to assist in vessel docking and departure.
- Bunkering: Fueling services for vessels calling at the port.
- Ship Repairs: Facilities available for ship repair and maintenance.
Economic Impact
The Port of Pascagoula is a critical economic driver for the region, underpinning thousands of jobs related to maritime operations, trade, and logistics. It plays a significant role in the local, state, and national economies by facilitating international trade and commerce.
Environmental and Safety Measures
- Environmental Compliance: Adherence to stringent environmental regulations to minimize the ecological impact, including measures for spill prevention and waste management.
- Safety Protocols: Comprehensive safety measures and emergency response plans in place to ensure the safety of port workers and the surrounding community.
Future Developments
The Port of Pascagoula continuously invests in infrastructure improvements and expansion projects to accommodate growing cargo volumes and enhance operational efficiency. This includes deepening of channels, modernization of equipment, and enhancement of intermodal connections.
Conclusion
The Pascagoula Marine Port stands as a pivotal infrastructure asset in the Gulf Coast, contributing significantly to regional and national maritime trade. Its robust facilities, strategic location, and continuous developmental efforts make it a key player in the global supply chain network.