Shipments of iron ore in U.S.-flag vessels plunged nearly 22 percent in the month of October compared with the same period last year, leading a decline of more than 9 percent in total cargo movements on the Great Lakes for the 2001 season-to-date.
USX-U.S. Steel Corp. and Bethlehem Steel Corp. are negotiating a possible merger that could include other domestic steel producers.
Despite the International Trade Commission's finding that most U.S. steel producers are being injured by imported steel, steps to remedy the situation probably will not be taken until next year.
Congress in November approved $3 million in initial funding of a new large lock to be built at the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.
