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Coast Guard concludes ice breaking operations

2017 delivered slightly more ice than 2016, but significantly less than the multi-year average
IceBreaking
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NEWS RELEASE

U.S. COAST GUARD

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SAULT STE. MARIE, MICH. โ€“ Commander, Coast Guard Sector Sault Sainte Marie concluded its domestic ice breaking operation, also known as Operation Taconite. With the ice throughout the Western Great Lakes nearly melted, ice breaking in support of commercial navigation is no longer required.   

This winter, ice coverage throughout the Great Lakes never significantly impacted commercial navigation. In contrast to the 2016 winter navigation season, 2017 delivered slightly more ice but significantly less than the multi-year average. 

Six U.S. Coast Guard cutters assigned to Operation Taconite conducted roughly 2,200 hours of domestic ice breaking in support of United States and Canadian shipping interests. 

It is estimated nearly 14 million tons of dry bulk and liquid cargoes, valued at more than $488 million dollars (US), were shipped during the 113 day winter navigation season. 

These commodities were crucial to sustaining industrial production and power generation for the Great Lakes region during the winter months.

Further inquiries can be made by phone to Sault Vessel Traffic Service at (906) 635-3232 or via email at SOOTFC@USCG.MIL.

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