A big drop in tonnage at the port’s molasses terminal is typical this time of year due to “the excellent sugarcane crop in 2008 imports” and the value of U.S. currency, says Karen St. Cyr, spokeswoman for the Port of Greater Baton Rouge. Agricultural cargo tonnages normally increase toward the latter part of the year. Molasses terminal revenues are down $31,016 for the first quarter of 2009. However, total port revenue for the first quarter is $1.3 million, so despite the decline in tonnage the port is still $16,495 ahead of budget for 2009. Expenses, meanwhile, are down by $457,399. The port’s molasses terminal, already the second-largest in the United States, will be expanded this year or in early 2010.—Steve Clark
Molasses drop normal, exacerbated by sugarcane crop
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