ST CLAIR

• USSCL
• Latitude: 42.7913
• Longitude: -82.4807
• Great Lakes
• Port in US

Location: US

Port of St. Clair, located in the state of Michigan, United States, is a significant maritime facility on the Great Lakes, particularly along the St. Clair River. Here’s a detailed description and specifications of the Port of St. Clair:

Geographic and Strategic Location:

• Location: Situated on the St. Clair River, which serves as a natural border between the United States and Canada.
• Coordinates: Approximately 42.8261° N latitude and 82.4894° W longitude.
• Proximity: Just north of Lake St. Clair and connected to the higher Great Lakes via the St. Clair and Detroit rivers, providing critical access to major maritime routes.

Key Features and Infrastructure:

1. Berths and Docks:

   • The port has several designated berths for both cargo and passenger vessels. These berths facilitate the loading and unloading of various types of goods, from bulk commodities to containerized freight.
   • The docks are equipped with necessary mooring and docking facilities to handle vessels of different sizes.

2. Cargo Handling Equipment:

   • Equipped with modern cranes, including mobile and fixed cranes for lifting heavy loads.
   • Forklifts, conveyors, and other material handling equipment are available to ensure efficient cargo movement.

3. Storage Facilities:

   • Ample warehousing facilities are available at the port, ensuring safe storage for various types of cargo, including dry and refrigerated storage.
   • Open storage yards for bulk commodities like coal, ores, and other natural resources.

4. Navigation and Access:

   • The port is accessible to large lake freighters and ocean-going vessels thanks to the deepwater channels maintained in the Great Lakes system.
   • Advanced navigation aids including lighthouses, buoys, and electronic navigation systems ensure safe passage for vessels.
   • The St. Clair River's depth is maintained to accommodate vessels with deeper drafts.

5. Transportation Links:

   • Road Access: The port enjoys robust road connectivity with major highways, ensuring seamless ground transportation links.
   • Rail Access: Rail tracks connect the port to major national rail networks, facilitating the movement of goods inland.
   • Waterway Connectivity: A vital link in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System, providing direct shipping routes to international destinations.

6. Cargo Types:

   • The port handles a diverse range of cargo including bulk commodities (coal, iron ore, limestone), general cargo, containers, and liquid bulk (petroleum products, chemicals).

Services:

1. Logistics and Support Services:

   • Customs clearance and freight forwarding services available on-site.
   • Tugboats and pilot services ensure safe navigation in and out of the port.

2. Maintenance and Repair:

   • Facilities for vessel repair and maintenance, including dry docks for larger vessels.

3. Security:

   • Adherence to international security standards, including ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code, ensuring the safety of cargo, vessels, and personnel.

Economic and Community Impact:

• The Port of St. Clair is a critical economic engine for the region, providing jobs and supporting local businesses.
• The port’s operations significantly contribute to the economic well-being of St. Clair city and the wider Michigan economy through trade, transportation, and ancillary industries.

Environmental Stewardship:

• Active management of environmental protection measures to minimize the impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
• Compliance with federal and state environmental regulations to ensure sustainable port operations.

Future Development:

• Ongoing expansion and modernization projects aimed at increasing capacity and improving efficiency.
• Investment in new technologies to enhance operational capabilities and environmental compliance.

The Port of St. Clair continues to play a vital role in the maritime industry, providing essential services and infrastructure that supports regional and international trade.