The updated schedule for the Corps’ Mississippi Valley New Orleans (MVN) 2018 Mississippi River bank stabilization program schedule (revetment and rock work), with applicable navigation restrictions, is enclosed below. The November 16, 2018 schedule of work as provided by the MVN is attached. The Corps plans to install revetments or protect the bank with rocks (bank stabilization) in three locations between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. There are also three remaining locations below New Orleans scheduled for placement of revetment matting (bank stabilization).

The Corps previously hosted a meeting, with representatives from the Corps’ Bank Stabilization Division, the U.S. Coast Guard, applicable Pilot Associations and navigation representatives, to detail the scope of bank stabilization efforts and develop the proposed transit restrictions. During times of actual revetment work, the Mat Sinking Unit (MSU) extends from approximately 300 to 800 feet channelward from the bank. When the Unit is not folded in, it extends about 480 feet from the bank channelward. When it is folded in, the MSU extends 250 feet from the bank. The scheduled working times for the MSU are from 0600 hours to 1900 hours. In different locations the operations may be completed slightly before or after 1900 hours. The Corps agreed to Industry’s request to fold in the Mat Sinking Unit (MSU) at night where revetment locations that warranted navigational concerns. The Pilots and Coast Guard’s Lower Mississippi River Vessel Traffic Service will utilize the Contact Pilot on the MSU to coordinate vessel movements in the vicinity of ongoing revetment operations.

The updated schedules from the Corps will be distributed upon receipt. The BRC will notify our members of any changes; however, please keep in mind that some changes occur without notice to Industry. The scheduled dates may change but those shown below are based on the latest schedule from the Corps. Updates will be provided in an attempt to provide accurate information as time permits and the work dates get closer.

2018 Corps’ Revetment Schedule and Restrictions Locations Above New Orleans

2018 Corps’ Revetment Schedule and Restrictions Locations Below New Orleans

2018/2019 Corps’ Rock Work Locations Schedule and Restrictions

There are no restrictions expected during the rock work at the locations above. However, throughout the bank stabilization efforts changes based upon river stages and experience with vessel transits should be expected. The Corps, Coast Guard, Pilots and BRC will work closely with industry to ensure that changes are noted and distributed.