The Port of Green Bay shipping season officially ended with a 6 percent decrease in tonnage compared to the previous year.
Shipments of salt, limestone and petroleum products were down in 2024, while volumes of cement and coal increased. The port saw 181 vessels transporting cargo this season compared to 171 vessels during the last season.
“Great Lakes ports experienced a brief pause during this season due to a strike, while last season’s mild winter created lower demand for salt during 2024,” said Dean Haen, Port of Green Bay Director.
This year, cement was up 21% while liquid asphalt was up 10%, which is indicative of a strong construction industry in Northeastern Wisconsin. Foreign exports of petroleum products, including ethanol, saw steady growth. Additionally, tonnage of constructed aluminum components doubled supporting the Bay of Green Bay’s shipbuilding industry.
Those interested in recent and historical tonnage information for the Port of Green Bay can visit https://www.portofgreenbay.com/cargo-quantities-shipped.
The Port of Green Bay is officially preparing for next season and with that has opened the 2025 First Ship Contest.
Particpants are asked to share their predictions on the date and time the first ship will arrive in the Port of Green Bay this spring through Discover Green Bay’s official entry form. The individual who guesses the closest date and time of the first ship’s arrival will be the winner and recipient of a prize package from Discover Green Bay and the Port of Green Bay. This year’s prize package includes:
- A one-night stay at the historic Hotel Northland
- A Port of Green Bay swag bag
- A 200th Anniversary Brown County Monopoly Game
- Six admission tickets to the National Railroad Museum
- A gift certificate from Voyageurs Sourdough Bakehouse
“The start of the shipping season varies annually, with difference of up to 30 days from year-to-year,” said Haen. “Key factors that may influence the timing include the ice cover on the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway, as well as water conditions across other parts of the Great Lakes system.”
One entry per person is allowed. If there are multiple correct guesses, the person who submitted their entry first will be chosen as the winner.
