Cliffs railroad safety reminder

Ishpeming, MI—May 13, 2013 —Cliffs Natural Resources, announced today that the Company has seen an increase in trespassing on its railroad tracks between the Empire and Tilden Mines and the LS& I Ore Dock. The tracks, owned and maintained by Cliffs Natural Resources, are traveled daily by ore cars carrying pellets to the Marquette Ore Dock.

A loaded train with 120 cars takes approximately a ½ mile to come to a complete stop.  Weather conditions and down-hill grades can increase the stopping distance.  Hiking, walking or driving on the tracks is considered trespassing and is a federal offense.  Signs are posted at several areas along the tracks reinforcing the trespassing rules and identifying the railroad right away.

“With the temperatures getting warmer, people are getting out in the woods more and coming in contact with the tracks, said Steve Beranek, area manager, transportation division for the LS&I Railroad.   It’s important to keep in mind that the trains coming from the mines, don’t operate on a specific schedule, so you never know when a train will be coming down the tracks. We ask everyone to maintain a safe distance and obey the posted signs prohibiting trespassing.”

Individuals caught trespassing on the tracks will be reported to local law enforcement.  Cliffs Natural Resources encourages everyone to enjoy the outdoors but adhere to all safety and trespassing signs.