The Mississippi is “Mighty” and it feeds the greatest economy in the world

Economic Impact

The importance of the Mississippi River has never been in question. International commerce on the river is the foundation of our region’s economy and essential to the long-term well-being of Louisiana. Learn what these industry experts have to say about the business of the river. It is Mighty!

“It (The Mississippi River) feeds the greatest economy in the world. This river is very difficult to navigate and there are so many challenges all the way from the mouth of the river to Baton Rouge and unless you have that knowledge it is not an even an option to not have an experienced pilot on board,” according to logistics expert and founder of Associated Terminals, David Fennelly.

“It’s not the same river tomorrow as it is today or as it was yesterday. The nation relies on the port of New Orleans and on the pilots to bring the vessels to dock and berth here. When it comes to the proficiency of the CRPPA pilots on the Mississippi river, you get what you pay for and we have the best,” says Gary Lagrange, past President and CEO, Port of New Orleans.

“Pilotage is more of an art form than it is a science, and pilots have done it successfully for more than 108 years with a 99% safety record. We protect the environment, ensure public welfare, and support the economic engine that maritime commerce provides for the country,” says Captain AJ Gibbs, Past President of Crescent River Port Pilots Association.

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“The importance of the Mississippi River has never been in question. New Orleans was founded because of its close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico.”

Captain Craig Clasen, Crescent River Port Pilots Association

“It (The Mississippi) feeds the greatest economy in the world. This river is very difficult to navigate and there are so many challenges all the way from the mouth of the river to Baton Rouge and unless you have that knowledge it is not an even an option to not have an experienced pilot on board.”

David Fennelly, Founder and Director of Associated Terminals

“It’s not the same river tomorrow as it is today or as it was yesterday. The nation relies on the port of New Orleans and on the pilots to bring the vessels to dock and berth here. When it comes to the proficiency of the CRPPA pilots on the Mississippi river, you get what you pay for and we have the best.”

Gary Lagrange, Past President and CEO, Port of New Orleans

“Pilotage is more of an art form than it is a science, and pilots have done it successfully for more than 108 years with a 99% safety record. We protect the environment, public welfare, and support the economic engine that maritime commerce provides for the country.”

Captain AJ Gibbs, Past President of Crescent River Port Pilots Association