Honoring American Mariners On Labor Day

According to The American Waterways Operators (AWO), the tugboat, towboat and barge industry alone supports more than 270,000 jobs, moves 665 million tons of cargo and contributes more than $30 billion annually to U.S. gross domestic product.

At about 14,000, American mariners may be few in number compared to some other fields, but they have an outsized impact on the American economy. And thanks to continual improvements in technology and operations, each inland mariner is responsible for a growing tonnage of waterborne cargoes.

Although the U.S. merchant marine faces many challenges, there are encouraging signs of hope and growth. Talented young Americans are still inspired to pursue satisfying and rewarding careers in the maritime industry, including the inland sector. 

Each year our readers learn about some of the accomplished women and men who are moving into leadership positions in the industry in our “40 Under 40” columns.

The harvest season is about to begin, when barge transportation is especially crucial for farmers exporting their products down the Mississippi River to the Gulf. This export season promises to be a tough one for farmers, with low crop prices, bulging bins and stiff competition from Brazil and other overseas competitors. American farmers need every export advantage they can get from low-cost, green barge transportation.

As Americans enjoy their Labor Day weekend barbecues that traditionally mark the end of summer, American mariners and shoreside staff are also celebrating. Many mariners will do so while on watch, as they are throughout the year, in all weather and on all holidays. Labor Day is an especially good time to reflect once again and be thankful for all the benefits of our inland waterways and the mariners who work them.