1. As a result of the Baton Rouge gauge expected to reach 28’ and continue to rise, the COTP of New Orleans has issued a Safety Advisory for all waters of the Lower Mississippi River (LMR) from Mile 219 to Mile 229 and Mile 232 to Mile 237 Above Head of Passes (AHP) in accordance with the Waterways Action Plan Baton Rouge Annex:
2. Port Allen Lock LMR MM 219-229:
A. All tows greater than 600’ (excluding the towboat) are recommended to employ an assist vessel of at least 1200 hp when entering the Port Allen Lock.
B. All tows exiting the Port Allen Lock intending to turn northbound are recommended to use an assist vessel or proceed southbound and then top around at or below MM 221 prior to heading north.
C. Companies should consider staffing vessels with the most experienced crews.
D. Towing vessels shall catch a headline when entering the Port Allen Lock.
E. Vessels will be put on queue for lock turn when their tow is built and may remain in the area in which their tow was built until it is time for lock turn.
3. Wilkinson Point LMR MM 232-237:
A. Companies should consider staffing vessels with the most experienced crews.
This Marine Safety Information Bulletin supersedes Volume XXIV, Issue 007: High Water Safety Advisory: MM 219 to MM 229 AHP LMR (25’ and Rising)
For further information, contact the following:
Vessel Traffic Service Lower Mississippi River: (504) 365-2230, VHF-FM CH 05A, 12, 67
Coast Guard Baton Rouge Waterways Management: (225) 298-5400 X230
Coast Guard Sector New Orleans Waterways Management: (504) 365-2278
Coast Guard Sector New Orleans Command Center: (504) 365-2200
