The Charles M. Beegly and Michipicoten were the first ore boats to arrive at Presque Isle ore dock in Marquette Monday morning
MARQUETTE -- Shipping season began early this year and Cliffs officials believe it is partly due to the weather and an increased demand for steel.
The Charles M. Beegly and Michipicoten were the first ore boats to arrive at Presque Isle ore dock in Marquette Monday morning.
A mild spring made travel for the ships easier.
Cliffs officials also credit a rise in the housing and car markets for the early season and busy year ahead.
"Certainly we're off to a good start, it looks like we'll have somewhere in the neighborhood of twenty plus boats within the next two weeks or so and that's way ahead of last years schedule," said Dale Hemmila, Cliffs Spokesman.
The mines primarily ship to the North American steel mills on the Great Lakes.
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