The Governor Proclaims Ports Week
Excerpt from Governor’s proclamation. See complete proclamation on the right.
- NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jim Doyle, Governor of the State of Wisconsin, do hereby proclaim August 4-10, 2008 as
and I encourage all Wisconsin residents this week to join me in saluting the men and women that make our 15 commercial ports one of Wisconsin's true economic and quality of life "jewels".
Click here for TDA’s press release on Wisconsin Ports Week.
Wisconsin Ports Week Facts
Wisconsin's System
- Wisconsin has 15 commercial ports and each year these ports handle more than 40 million tons of cargo valued at over $7 billion.
- Commodities shipped from Wisconsin ports include: farm products, metallic ores, coal and scrap materials. Inbound freight brings coal, nonmetallic minerals, clay, salt, concrete, stone and much more.
- By 2020, it is estimated that total shipments through Wisconsin commercial ports will increase about 34%.
- Port facilities serve as a multi-modal distribution centers linking waterborne vessels with Wisconsin's extensive network of highways and railroads.
The Benefits of Commercial Ports
- Wisconsin ports provide an important transportation alternative that many states cannot offer and generate over $1 billion in economic activity which supports over 11,000 jobs.
- Water transportation is the most cost efficient mode for moving bulk commodities such as agricultural products, petroleum, coal, and construction materials.
- A recent report finds that a barge can move one ton of cargo 576 miles on a gallon of fuel. This is almost 1.5 times more miles than by rail (413 miles) and almost 4 times more miles than by truck (155 miles).
- Water transportation is environmentally responsible. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), towboats emit 35-60% fewer emission than locomotives or trucks.
- The waterways surrounding Wisconsin provide recreational opportunities and are an important part of tourism in the state. Charter fishing boats, sport fishing and commercial fishing activities operate out of the state's harbors and marinas and the five ferries operating in the state transport commuters, freight and tourists to some of the most picturesque island communities in Wisconsin.
Commercial Port Links
American Association of Port Authorities
Great Lakes Commission
Great Lakes Information Network
Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway System
Lake Carriers' Association
Marine Transportation System National Advisory Council
National Waterways Foundation
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mississippi Valley Division
U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration
Waterways Council, Inc.
Wisconsin Commercial Ports Association
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
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