Mississippi River Returns To Low Levels

Less than two months removed from heavy snowmelt causing floods along the Mississippi River, the major shipping route is once again at record lows. Mike Steenhoek, executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, says persistent drought conditions are keeping rainfall from making its way into the river.

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Steenhoek adds that some parts of the river are lower than they were last October.

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Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition notes that barge companies are again reducing their tow sizes and freight loads to account for the lower levels. Last year the average capacity per shipment was reduced by 40 percent.