The Road Less Traveled

Greg Trauthwein, Editor

Gregory R. Trauthwein has covered the global maritime market for more than 25...

July 14, 2008

Shown here are the charts which quantify the energy efficiency of barge transport, as well as the common comparison of a 15-tow barge comparison to the equivalent carriage capabilities of road and rail. (Source: A Modal Comparison of Domestic Freight Transportation Effects on the General Public)

New study touts the economic and environmental benefits, plus the growth potential, of barge traffic on inland waterways.

Anyone who has spent much time in the marine transportation industry likely is familiar with the various charts and graphs that tout the superior cargo carrying capacity and efficiency of barges versus trains and trucks.

C. Berdon Lawrence, Chairman of the Board of Kirby Corp. and Joseph Pyne, the ubiquitous President and CEO of Kirby Corp.