SAULT STE MARIE

• CASSM
• Latitude: 46.506
• Longitude: -84.3405
• Great Lakes
• Port in Canada

Location: Sault Ste. Marie ON P6A Canada

Sault Ste. Marie Marine Port, Canada

Overview: Sault Ste. Marie is a city located in Ontario, Canada, situated on the northeastern shore of Lake Superior along the St. Marys River. The city's port is a crucial component of the Great Lakes-Saint Lawrence Seaway system, serving as a key transit and shipping hub for various commodities.

Location:

• Latitude: 46°31'00" N
• Longitude: 84°20'00" W

Port Facilities:

1. Docks and Terminals:

   • Public Terminals: The port includes public docking facilities capable of accommodating various vessel sizes.
   • Private Terminals: Several private terminals cater to specialized cargo, including bulk commodities and general cargo.

2. Berthing Capacity:

   • The port's berths can handle a range of vessels, from small commercial boats to large freighters.

3. Draft:

   • The draft at the port varies but generally supports vessels with a draft of up to 8.2 meters (27 feet), suitable for Seawaymax vessels commonly used on the Great Lakes.

4. Cargo Handling:

   • The port handles a diverse array of cargos such as iron ore, coal, stone, aggregates, and various bulk materials.
   • Facilities include cranes, conveyor systems, and warehouse storage.

5. Navigation:

   • The port navigational aids are maintained to ensure safe passage of vessels. The Sault Ste. Marie Canal and related lock systems facilitate the movement of ships between Lake Superior and Lake Huron.

6. Access:

   • Road Access: The port is accessible via major highways, including Trans-Canada Highway (HWY 17), facilitating efficient cargo movement to and from the port.
   • Rail Access: Rail lines connect the port to the broader Canadian rail network, linking it to North American markets.
   • Water Access: The port is part of the Great Lakes and Saint Lawrence Seaway system, providing access to international waters.

Port Services:

• Pilotage: Local pilotage services are available to navigate through the congested waters of the river and canal.
• Tug Services: Tugboats provide docking, undocking, and emergency assistance.
• Maritime Security: The port adheres to ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code regulations.
• Customs and Border Control: On-site services streamline the import and export process.

Economic Impact:

• The port plays a vital role in the regional economy, supporting jobs and enabling trade.
• It acts as a gateway for resources such as minerals and lumber from Northern Ontario.

Future Development:

• There are ongoing plans for infrastructure improvements to enhance capacity and efficiency, ensuring the port meets future demands.

Notable Features:

• The Sault Ste. Marie Locks, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the American side and the Canadian Lock on the Canadian side, are critical for ships passing from Lake Superior to Lake Huron and vice versa.

In summary, the Sault Ste. Marie Marine Port in Canada is a strategically important facility within the Great Lakes region, providing essential services for the shipping and transport of various goods. It is equipped with modern facilities to handle a wide range of cargo types and is continually improving to meet the growing demands of global trade.