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 awareness. The Western River system tracks from the new operational center the movement of barges containing certain dangerous cargoes. Additionally, increased patrols, vessel escorts and/or boardings by river marshals could be implemented based on the Department of Homeland Security Advisory System level and other factors. These increased security measures are designed to 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. The regulations were signed April 16. Docket numbers CGD08-03-014 and CGD09-03-209 can be found at