Mark Barker Appointed to Maritime Industry Advisory Panel

Interlake President Mark Barker is one of 29 people appointed on August 26, 2011, by US Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, to the new Marine Transportation System National Advisory Council (MTSNAC), established to advise the Department of Transportation on matters relating to marine transportation. 

Interlake President Mark Barker was one of 29 people appointed by US Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood to the newly formed Marine Transportation system National Advisory Council (MTSNAC), on August 26, 2011.  The MTSNAC was established to advise the Department of Transportation on matters relating to marine transportation.  DOT will task the MTSNAC with developing recommendations on establishing new marine highway services and port infrastructure development, among other issues.

“Shifting some of our freight from the highways to open inland waterways is a fuel-efficient, cost-effective way to move goods and reduce roadway congestion,” said Secretary LaHood.  “The recommendations developed by the Marine Transportation System National Advisory Council will help us increase transportation efficiency, improve the environment and grow the economy.”

In creating the MTSNAC, DOT sought members with exemplary experience in serving on other government and industry maritime advisory panels.  Four of the 29 members are from the Great Lakes region and have broad experience within the Great Lakes maritime industry.

"The experience brought to bear by this diverse panel is impressive,” said Maritime Administrator David Matsuda.  “These maritime experts have a lot to contribute.  I look forward to their advice as we tackle the industry’s most pressing challenges.”