Vessel Traffic Service LMR- (NEW) Pipeline Removal Operations @ MM 189.5

By Tessa Andres | October 13, 2022

1245 L: Vessel Traffic Service LMR- (NEW) Pipeline Removal Operations @ MM 189.5:

VTS LMR is providing a detailed plan for the closure and reopening during the Pipeline Removal Operations @MM 189.5 commencing daily from 17Oct22 thru 22Oct22.

From October 4, 2022 to November 8, 2022, Enterprise will be removing submerged pipeline at MM 189 AHP. During this time, the following channel restrictions and/or closures will be in effect:

  • October 4-16: No channel closures. Slow bells may be required during certain times. Industry notified via Broadcast Notice to Mariners (BNM)
  • October 17-22: River closed to all traffic from 1900 – 0700. River open w/no restrictions from 0700-1900.
  • October 23-25: No channel closures. Slow bells may be required during certain times. Industry notified via BNM
  • October 26-31: River closed to all traffic from 1900 – 0700. River open w/no restrictions from 0700-1900.
  • November 1-3: No channel closures. Slow bells may be required during certain times. Industry notified via BNM
  • November 4-8: River closed to all traffic from 1900 – 0700. River open w/no restrictions from 0700-1900.
  • November 9-15: Reserved dates pending any final removal operations. Industry notified via VTS/BNM.

During times of river closure, VTS LMR has established the following guidelines:

  • All Southbound traffic shall check-in with VTS at MM 205 via land line at (504) 365-2512.
  • Northbound traffic shall check in with VTS at MM 167.5 Sunshine Bridge via VHF Ch.5A.
  • VTS LMR will still monitor VHF Ch. 5A and conduct regular check-ins for 81 Mile Point AOR on Ch. 5A.
  • When the river is closed, the VTS Closure operator will maintain the southbound/northbound queue list and monitor VHF 67 to ensure traffic is making safe passing arrangements.
  • When the river re-opens, the VTS Closure operator will work with the VTS 81 mile point operator to de-conflict traffic, and then contact vessels via phone or VHF radio to clear the southbound and northbound queues.
  • Tows (>20 barges) should be mindful of limited safe mooring areas South of the I-10 bridge during closure periods.

M/V LB SPEEDY will be the on-scene lead vessel and can be contacted via VHF-FM Channels 67 or at (601) 604-5757. The MSIB for these operations can be found here.

Posted in Navigation Notices: Lower Mississippi River