Reporting strong volumes across most commodities, the Port of Thunder Bay’s September statistics highlight success in cargo diversification efforts, particularly at Keefer Terminal, stated the Thunder Bay Port Authority (TBPA).

The year-to-date throughput totalled 6.7 million metric tons versus just over 6 million tons. Grain was up at 4.9 million tons, potash was up at 1.2 million tons and general cargo up slightly at 39,113 tons for the period.

Keefer Terminal was a lively hub of activity in September, handling inbound shipments of steel rail, steel pipe, mining equipment, and phosphate fertilizer. Keefer Terminal remains a prime facility for cargo-specific storage and transloading solutions, as evidenced in its cargo variety, supporting major infrastructure projects to the West and North.

Keefer has surpassed last year’s record dry bulk volume at 84,213 tons to end- September. Further tonnage is expected before the end of the season. Its primary bulk commodity is fertilizer, which is railed and trucked west for Prairie farmers.

Port of Thunder Bay saw an influx in overall cargo volumes in September. The latest statistics for September show strong potash and grain shipments and the largest cargo throughput for this month since 2016. 

September’s monthly and year-to-date potash tallies set standards not seen in the Port of Thunder Bay before. The continued upward trend in potash throughput exemplifies port efficiency and reinforces Thunder Bay’s ever-important role in the agricultural sector as a vital gateway between Western Canada and the world, the TPA commented.

(Photo from TBPA)