Soo Locks Get Longer Season

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District, has revised the schedule for closure of the Poe Lock at Sault Ste. Marie, signaling the end of the 2011 Soo Locks navigation season.

The Poe Lock will remain open through 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18 – three days later than announced in mid-December. Built in 1968, the 1,200-foot Poe is the longest of the four locks at the Soo.

“Our well-trained and dedicated Soo work force is committed to safely operating the locks, and making good use of the winter shutdown period by performing necessary maintenance,” said Lt. Col. Mike Derosier, district engineer. “The locks are a vital asset for the transport of raw materials and commodities that help energize our economy and provide jobs.”

More than 4,500 vessels carrying up to 80 million tons of cargo maneuver through the locks annually. Iron ore, coal and limestone are among the most frequently carried commodities.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District, maintains a navigation system of 95 harbors, including the Great Lakes Connecting Channels that join lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, and Erie.