Navigation Transit Recommendation(s) on the Crossings Above New Orleans:
The New Orleans Baton Rouge Steamship Pilots Association (NOBRA) maximum draft recommendation for all vessels transiting up to Mile 180 Above Head of Passes (AHP) is 47 feet. The maximum draft recommendation from Mile 180 AHP to Mile 222 AHP is 45 feet and vessels transiting above Mile 222 AHP are limited to the maximum draft recommendation of 43 feet.
The Vessel Traffic Service Lower Mississippi River has implemented the following VTS Measure at Belmont Crossing:
"Due to shoaling encroaching into the Belmont crossing reach, VTS Lower Mississippi River has established a VTS measure restricting all deep draft vessels 42' and greater to one way traffic while transiting between MM152.5 and MM154 AHP until further notice. Vessels should contact VTS on ch 5A or at 504-365-2514 for any questions."
WHITE CASTLE ANCHORAGE will be off limits for vessel usage beginning at 1200 hours today and continuing for the next 2-3 weeks. This will promote navigational safety while the dustpan dredge HURLEY is working at Alhambra Crossing.
