The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have announced that the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan will open this Sunday, March 25th marking the beginning of the 2018 Great Lakes Shipping Season.

They aren't exactly sure which ship will be the first to travel through the locks, but it appears it will be a busy day with several lakers leaving their ports Friday morning.

The locks officially closed on January 15th.  During this down time, critical updates and maintenance occurred during the 10 week shut down.  Reliability is key according to Lt. Col. Dennis P. Sugrue, district engineer.  The locks are a key part of the Great Lakes Waterway, providing a critical connection between the 94 harbors on the lakes.

The Twin Ports shipping season opened earlier this week with the departure of the Clyde S. VanEnkevort on Tuesday.  Five other ships left the Duluth / Superior port this week, many of which will be traveling through the Soo Locks.

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