Waterway Status – VTS Measure MM 190.0 – 191.5 AHP LMR White Castle Anchorage Closure
Vessel Traffic Service Lower Mississippi River (VTS LMR), in accordance with the Navigation Safety Regulations, Code of Federal Regulations Title 33, Subpart 161.11, will establish a Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) Measure for the waters of the Lower Mississippi River from Mile Marker (MM) 190 Above Head of Passes (AHP) to MM 191.5 AHP. This Measure is needed to protect persons and vessels from the potential safety hazards associated with U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) dredging operations at Alhambra Crossing near White Castle Anchorage.
Effective at 12:00 p.m. local time on Friday, June 26, 2020, vessels shall not enter the White Castle Anchorage or the area extending 700 feet into the river from the right descending bank, between MM 190 and MM 191.5. This VTS Measure will remain in effect as long as the dredging operations are taking place at Alhambra Crossing. All vessels are prohibited from entering this area without permission from the Captain of the Port New Orleans or designated representative.
The U.S. Government Dustpan Dredge WALLACE MCGEORGE will be working 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and will give way to vessels using the waterway. The Dredge can be contacted on either VHF channel 16 or 67. Mariners are urged to transit at their slowest safe speed to minimize wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made.
The point of contact with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) New Orleans District is Michelle Kornick at (504) 862-1842 or Heather Jennings at (504) 862-1253.
For further information, contact:
Coast Guard Sector New Orleans Command Center: (504) 365-2200
Coast Guard Sector New Orleans Waterways Management: (504) 365-2280
Coast Guard MSU Baton Rouge Waterways Management: (225) 298-5400 x230
Vessel Traffic Service Lower Mississippi River: (504) 365-2230, VHF FM Ch. 05A, 12, 67
