Current Post Development Problems

The major problems confronting United States\u27 seaports are investigated as they relate to the 1970s time frame. The influence of the merchant marine\u27s transition to new, large and deep drafted ships is examined as it pertains to harbor and channel depth, pier and storage requirements, waterborne traffic control and port economic impact. Present seaport facilities are barely keeping abreast with new developments in cargo transportation and handling methods. Additionally, major port development problems are magnified by the recent awarenesss of the environmental value of the coastal zone. Only a limited amount of area remains in most ports, both below the water and onshore and vigorous expansion will only be gained at the expense of irreplaceable natural surroundings