Thunder Bay port activity was up during the month of June compared to the same period last year.  It was a strong month for potash and general cargo shipments, while grain volumes had a modest rebound, the port reported.

Shipments of potash continued at a strong pace.  Ocean-going vessels exported more than 150,000 metric tons of potash from Thunder Bay handling facilities for a second consecutive month.  The volume of potash shipped as of June 30 exceeds the port’s annual average.  Potash destinations include ports in Europe, South America, and North Africa. Total year-to-date potash shipments to end June amounted to 440,000 metric tons versus the year-earlier 137,000 tons.

At Keefer Terminal, wind turbine components were imported for Western Canadian windfarm projects.  This included 88 large windmill tower sections, which are being staged at Keefer’s intermodal yard and will be railed west.

Grain volumes topped the same month last year for the first time this season.  Year-to-date shipments of grain are down by 1 million metric tons compared to last year, a result of the poor Prairie grain harvest in 2021.  

Stronger grain production predicted for this year will result in higher port shipments beginning this fall.  Global grain demand remains high while supplies are tight.  Statistics Canada reported abundant spring grain seeding across the Prairies, and Agriculture Canada is estimating much better crop production than last year.

(Photo by Michael Hull of MV Labrador taking on load of potash)