Coast Guard Establishes New IRVMC

The Coast Guard established the Inland Rivers Vessel Movement Center (IRVMC) in St. Louis, April 16, to gather information and track certain barges along the river system 24-hours a day. In a continuous effort to secure the homeland, the Coast Guard increased its presence and maritime. The Western River system tracks the movement of barges containing certain dangerous cargoes from the new operational center. Additionally, increased patrols, vessel escorts and/or boarding by river marshals could be implemented based on the Department of Homeland Security Advisory System level and other factors. These increased security measures ensure the safe transit of vessels carrying certain cargoes, the safe movement of commerce through specific portions of the river system and the safety of strategic infrastructure.