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Silt Deposits Reduce Mississippi River Draft

Maritime Activity Reports, Inc.

August 10, 2015

File Image: courtesy WCI

File Image: courtesy WCI

Heavy silt deposits in the Mississippi River Delta caused by recent high upstream river levels have led to a reduction from 47 to 45 feet for the maximum recommended draft for vessels using the Southwest Pass, Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS) advised.
 
The Southwest Pass is the primary shipping channel on the Mississippi River, with a variety of cargos entering and leaving the river. It is the only channel that can be used by deep draft vessels.
 
The guidance, issued by the Louisiana Maritime Association, is effective immediately. ISS local representatives based in New Orleans believe the draft reduction will likely remain in place for several weeks, ahead of any potential dredging activity by U.S. authorities and may be increased or decreased at any time as conditions warrant.
 
Agents are working with the BAR Pilots in respect of vessels already in transit and loaded above 45 feet, or currently loading to 47 feet. Agents are scheduling pilots for those vessels at a draft above 45 feet ensuring they sail as close to high tide as possible, and to avoid having the vessel going to anchorage.
 

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