SILVER BAY

• USSIB
• Latitude: 47.2815
• Longitude: -91.256
• Great Lakes
• Port in US

Location: Silver Bay MN US

Silver Bay Marine Port Overview

General Information

• Location: Silver Bay is located in northeastern Minnesota along the northern shore of Lake Superior.
• Coordinates: Approximately 47.2992° N latitude and 91.2535° W longitude.
• Port Type: It's primarily a commercial port, focusing on shipping commodities like taconite ore.
• Ownership: The port is operated by Northshore Mining Company, a subsidiary of Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.

Harbor and Facilities

• Access: The port is accessed via a bay that is protected from the main body of Lake Superior, ensuring calmer waters for docking and loading activities.
• Draft Depth: The port has a significant draft depth capable of accommodating bulk carriers, typically up to 26 feet (7.9 meters) or more.
• Berths: Facilities include berths specifically designed for loading taconite pellets, a key export product of Northshore Mining.
• Cargo Handling: The port is equipped with mechanical ship loaders for efficient and high-volume cargo handling.
• Storage: Adjacent facilities include large storage areas for stockpiling taconite before shipping.

Navigation

• Approach Channels: The approach channels to Silver Bay are well-marked and maintained, accommodating vessels up to Panamax size.
• Breakwaters: The bay itself is protected by breakwaters, reducing wave action and providing safer mooring conditions.
• Pilotage: Pilotage services are available and often required for larger vessels navigating into and out of the port.

Services and Infrastructure

• Rail and Road Connections: The port is well-connected with nearby transportation infrastructure, including rail lines and major highways, facilitating the efficient movement of goods to and from the mining operations.
• Support Services: Facilities include fueling stations, vessel repair services, and crew accommodations.
• Environmental Considerations: Northshore Mining adheres to strict environmental regulations to minimize the impact on Lake Superior's ecosystem, including monitoring water quality and managing waste effectively.

Economic Impact

• Primary Exports: The port's primary exports are taconite pellets, which are shipped primarily to steel mills in the Great Lakes region and beyond.
• Local Employment: Silver Bay's port activities and related industrial operations contribute significantly to the local economy, providing jobs and supporting ancillary businesses.

Key Port Specifications

• Type: Commercial port with a focus on bulk commodities.
• Capacity: Facilities to handle large bulk carriers and significant volumes of taconite ore.
• Draft Depth: Very accommodating with a draft capacity of approximately 26 feet.
• Donage: Includes extensive storage and stockpiling areas for taconite.
• Safety: Equipped with modern navigational aids, breakwaters, and compliant with safety regulations.

Conclusion

Silver Bay Marine Port is a vital cog in the logistics and supply chain of the Minnesota mining industry, particularly for taconite ore. Its strategic location on Lake Superior, coupled with well-developed infrastructure and environmental stewardship, ensures it plays a crucial role in regional economic development.