As a result of the Baton Rouge gauge reading 30’ and predicted to fall, the Captain of the Port of New Orleans has issued a safety advisory for all waters of the Lower Mississippi River (LMR) from Mile 219 Above Head of Passes (AHP), to Mile 240 AHP. This safety advisory is effective immediately. The following are recommendations for the advisory:
Tows should use their most experienced crews.
Additionally tows entering and exiting Port Allen Lock LMR MM 219-229 are reminded that:
- All tows greater than 600’ (excluding the towboat) are recommended to employ an assist vessel of at least 1200 hp when entering locks.
- 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.
- Tows shall catch a headline when entering the locks.
- 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.
This Marine Safety Information Bulletin supersedes Volume XXII, Issue 027 High Water Safety Advisory: MM 219 to MM 240 AHP LMR (30’ and rising).
For further information, contact:
Coast Guard Baton Rouge Waterways Management: (225) 298-5400 X230
Coast Guard Sector New Orleans Command Center: (504) 365-2200
Vessel Traffic Service Lower Mississippi River: (504) 365-2230, VHF FM Ch. 05A, 12, 67
