Assessing future management strategies in the port of Thunder Bay

A simulation model of the port of Thunder Bay (grain terminals) was developed and applied to assess future management strategies in the port. Data concerning input characteristics (ship interarrival time, berth service time and grain time) and performance characteristics (waiting time and berth utilization) were collected for the busiest 3-month period (September to October) in 1981 and 1982. These data were then used to validate the model to existing conditions. After the validity of the model had been established, the model was used to predict operating conditions in 1990 and to assess the impacts of possible management strategies. These strategies included increasing the number of terminals, reduction of grain time and reduction of ship movements between terminals.