GREAT LAKES PORTS

The maps below show the major Great Lakes' ports in the state of Michigan. Stone is the primary commodity moved out of the ports in the NE part of the lower peninsula (e.g., Stoneport). Iron ore is shipped from Marquette, while manufactured goods occupy the bulk of the traffic out of Detroit.

Source: Atlas of Michigan, ed. Lawrence M. Sommers, 1977. 

Source: Unknown

Source: Unknown 

The large cargo ships often seen on the Great Lakes, carrying coal, iron ore, limestone, etc., require a draft of about 8 meters.  ("Draft" means that's how deep they float in the water.)  In some areas, where the water is shallow, such as the St. Clair River and the Detroit River, the 8 m draft of these ships can cause damage to underwater plants, in the shipping lanes/channels.  Erosion of the river bed also may occur.

This material has been compiled for educational use only, and may not be reproduced without permission.  One copy may be printed for personal use.  Please contact Randall Schaetzl (soils@msu.edu) for more information or permissions.