Low Water in Upper Mississippi River

The Coast Guard issued a safety advisory for the Upper Mississippi River, cautioning mariners of extreme low-water conditions. The low-water advisory is in effect between mile markers 109.9 (Chester, Ill.) and 185 (northern St. Louis). Heavy-draft vessels are advised to not transit the area, and all mariners are advised to use extra caution and be aware of shifting channels as buoys are adjusted for changing water levels and shoaling. The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Cheyenne, a 75-foot river tender homeported here, got underway today in order to reposition buoys starting at mile maker 109.9 and moving north until November 11, 2006. The U.S. Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers and the River Industry Action Committee are actively working together to coordinate efforts to reduce impacts on navigation.