P.M. BRIEFING : Great Lakes Shipping Declines

CLEVELAND — The Great Lakes shipping industry suffered a second straight season of declining cargo in 1990, with an increase in iron ore shipments being offset by decreases in coal and stone shipments, it was reported today.

The Lake Carriers’ Assn. said 1990 shipments of the three major commodities totaled 133 million tons, down from 133.4 million tons in 1989 and 136.7 million tons in 1988. The season ended Feb. 1.

Iron ore cargo, however, reached a 10-year high of 69 million tons, up from 66.7 million tons in 1989. It was the best year for iron ore shipments since 83.9 million tons were shipped in 1981. Shipments dropped to a low of 43.1 million tons in 1982. The association said a 14% increase in loadings at St. Lawrence River ports played a major role in setting the post-recession record.