In the past ten years, improvements in local and international economies have been reflected by an increase in the activity and vitality of the working river. Goods shipped from the Miami River are sent to over 80 ports of call in the Caribbean and Central and South America. The labor force of the river terminals is privatized, multi-cultural, and fluent in several languages. The independent nature of Miami River terminals makes them strongly competitive in the region.
Apparel bound for the Dominican Republic is a major commodity shipped from the river.
Located in the heart of the city, the river offers special challenges for cargo carriers. River depth also limits the load that a cargo ship can handle, and bridges and tidal cycles limit the times when large ships can travel on the river. Nevertheless, the working river is improving. Members of the private port cooperative are conscientious about doing their part to improve water quality, and Best Management Practices at MRMG river terminals are routine. Marina Facility Operators have become more adept at proactive environmental measures, and a well-respected environmental firm, Cliff Berry Inc., stands by as a Miami River Marine Group partner ready to handle environmental emergencies.