TECHNOLOGY: New technology applications by the Great Lakes shipping industry are increasing efficiency, decreasing environmental impact and improving crew and cargo safety. Advancements in both and infrastructure and cutting edge shipboard improvements are reviewed in this detailed report.

EVOLVING TRADE PATTERNS: Trade pattern change is accelerating. Currently the CN is improving their E-W line out of Thunder Bay, the Panama Canal expansion is underway, and ports on the East and West Coast experience periodic congestion. These and other external forces will affect future Great Lakes trade patterns, which we will examine in detail.

PORT DEVELOPMENT PANEL: Great Lakes Governors and Premiers discuss how ports aid economic development, gentrification and the key role of public-private partnerships.

BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT: Ballast water treatment systems are beginning to achieve technical certifications. In addition to explaining the approvals, this coverage will describe each technology and whether they have been tested in freshwater.

IRON ORE: Iron ore expert Professor Peter Kakela provides observations on the chaotic state of the industry and describes the role “junior mines” will play in the future.

GREAT LAKES RESTORATION INITIATIVE: $455 million is budgeted for Great Lakes Restoration and the commercial shipping industry will benefit. The U.S. EPA is reviewing initial project proposals. We will discuss the process and the proposals.

SMALL PORTS: Small ports add up to big tonnage in the Great Lakes/St. Lawrence Seaway System. Now these ports are uniting to create a more influential voice. For the first time, we will present these small ports and the role they play in the system.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Guest editorial; Shipyard Activity Report; Lake Carriers’ Association Viewpoint; Seaway Administrator’s Outlook; Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering; Dateline; Great Laker.

BONUS DISTRIBUTION: International Shipmasters Convention; SNAME Great Lakes & Great Rivers Regional Meeting; Industry Day at Great LakesMaritime Academy. Great Lakes Day, Washington, D.C.

Editorial subject to change without notice.