Six Less Lakers In Service On November 1
The active U.S.-flag Great Lakes fleet totaled 53 vessels on November 1, a decrease of six hulls compared both to a year ago and the month's 5-year average. The ITB JOSEPH H. THOMPSON was idled for repairs and expected to return to service upon completion.
Vessel Utilization Rates :
U.S.-Flag Great Lakes Fleet
November 1, 1999-2003
| Year | Dry-Bulk Carriers | Cement Carriers | Tankers | Total |
| 1999 | 52 | 6 | 6 | 64 |
| 2000 | 52 | 5 | 5 | 62 |
| 2001 | 48 | 6 | 6 | 60 |
| 2002 | 49 | 5 | 5 | 59 |
| 2003 | 44 | 5 | 4 | 53 |
| 5-Year Average | 49 | 5 | 5 | 59 |
