LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - Barge loading and unloading activity at the Port of Little Rock remained steady during the month of August.  Logistic Services Inc. (LSI), the port’s stevedoring company, worked 27 barges containing more than 40,000 net tons of cargo. The Port of Little Rock saw an increase in break-bulk cargoes while bulk loading operations fell sharply. Commodities handled across the docks included nepheline syenite, sand, steel coils, wetcake and wire rod coils.  Through the first eight months of the year, LSI has worked 256 barges over 385,000 net tons of various commodities. September looks to be a strong month and LSI anticipates working at least 50 barges with the expected arrival of numerous barges of domestic steel coils; as well as an increase in expected bulk commodity handling. “The inland river is an amazing asset for the moving of commodities across the country or around the world.” said Bryan Day, Executive Director of the Little Rock Port Authority.  “We hope that as the administration continues exploring options for tariffs or trade restrictions, that this Country does not lose sight of the potential impact trade regulations have on the American worker.  Inland ports depend on the ability to trade with the world and we exist solely for the purpose of creating local jobs.  Any negative impact on this core focus will hurt the American worker,” continued Day.