Kaskaskia Regional Port District - Harbour Facility in New Athens, Illinois

Kaskaskia Regional Port District is a harbour facility located at 7405 Pike Sawmill Rd, New Athens, Illinois, United States. Situated in St. Clair County, this inland port serves as a critical node for maritime logistics along the Kaskaskia River, connecting to the Mississippi River system. The facility is operational and classified under NAICS code 488310 for port and harbor operations. As a harbour facility, Kaskaskia Regional Port District handles various cargo types typical of inland ports, including bulk commodities and containerized goods. The port operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, including the US EPA Vessel General Permit (VGP) for vessel discharges and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) for shoreside operations. These regulations ensure proper management of stormwater runoff and oil-water separation, critical for protecting the riverine ecosystem. The port's location on the Kaskaskia River places it within a region characterized by agricultural and industrial activity. Its operations contribute to the local economy by facilitating the movement of goods such as grain, coal, and chemicals. Environmental management practices at the facility focus on minimizing impacts on water quality and aquatic habitats, aligning with federal and state environmental standards.

The Kaskaskia Regional Port District operates on the Kaskaskia River, a tributary of the Mississippi River. The surrounding area includes agricultural lands and wetlands that provide habitat for fish and wildlife. Cargo handling activities, particularly bulk commodities, require careful stormwater management to prevent runoff of sediments and pollutants. The facility's compliance with US EPA VGP and NPDES permits is essential for protecting the river's water quality and the downstream Mississippi River ecosystem.