St. Lawrence Seaway begins 63rd shipping season

MASSENA, N.Y. (WWNY) - Shipping has begun on the St. Lawrence Seaway for the 63rd year.

The Baie St. Paul was the first ship to pass through St. Lambert Lock in Montreal, officially kicking off the navigation season.

To celebrate Monday’s opening, U.S. and Canadian seaway officials came together virtually and were joined by dignitaries from both countries.

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg joined the call and highlighted the shipping industry’s efforts toward a better environment.

“Together, the U.S. and Canada are working to safely distribute goods where they need to go while creating jobs and protecting our environment. If we are to meet our climate goals, as we must, supporting bi-national partnerships like seaway will play a key roll,” he said.

The bi-national partnership between Canada and the U.S. was highlighted Monday.

At one point, it was noted a ship transiting the seaway’s 15 locks from Montreal to Lake Erie crosses the international border 27 times.

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