Bulletin No. 91 

 Report of the International Ice Patrol in the North Atlantic 



Season of 2005 

 CG-1 88-60 



Forwarded herewith is Bulletin No. 91 of the International Ice Patrol (IIP), describing the Patrol's 

 services and ice conditions during the 2005 season. With only 1 1 icebergs crossing 48°N, this was 

 one of the lightest seasons on record, equaling 1924 as the sixth lightest in Ice Patrol's history. 

 Though a light season offers substantial benefits in terms of more economical transatlantic 

 shipping routes and overall reduction in the cost to conduct the patrol, it poses significant 

 challenges toward maintaining Ice Patrol's readiness. Reviewing the historical variability in 

 season severity proves that a light ice season in 2005 docs not predict future light seasons. This 

 variability coupled with the steady increase of waterbornc commerce into east-coast North 

 American ports underscores the fact that the risk of iceberg collision near the Grand Banks still 

 exists. Thus, vigilant monitoring and rigorous training arc key to ensuring Ice Patrol's readiness 

 to facilitate the safe passage of hundreds of vessels. This Bulletin shows the hard work performed 

 by Ice Patrol personnel and their partners to monitor iceberg danger and prepare for future severe 

 iceberg years. 



~^/?<^4, 



M. R. Hicks 



Commander, U. S. Coast Guard 



Commander, International Ice Patrol 



