21 Apr 2025

Mississippi River Locks and Dams 2–10: Tow Rail System

The tow rail system is integral to the operation of Mississippi River Locks and Dams 2 through 10. At each lock, a tow rail system is attached to the top of the lock guidewall to help guide tows through the lock chamber. The tow rail systems of Locks and Dams 2 through 10 have been deteriorating over the past several years, requiring rehabilitation of these systems.

17 Apr 2025

Navigation: Mississippi River End Cells

The Lock Guidewalls-Distress Repair Recommendations project for Locks and Dams 2 through 10 has been ongoing since the mid-1990s. The purpose of the end cell projects is to extend the longevity of each site and to reduce operability issues and required maintenance

16 Apr 2025

Project Alteration Reviews: Section 408

Section 14 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 authorizes the Secretary of the Army to grant permission for alterations to existing U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) projects under certain circumstances. The authority is codified in 33 U.S. Code 408. Section 408 provisions apply to works that were built by USACE and are locally maintained, such as local flood control projects, and works that are operated and maintained by USACE, such as locks and dams. Proposals submitted for Section 408 review and approval undergo a rigorous engineering, policy and environmental review by USACE and, if required, independent external peer review.

2 Dec 2020

Upper Mississippi River - Illinois Waterway System Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP)

Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP) is a long-term program of ecosystem restoration and navigation improvements for the Upper Mississippi River System (UMRS). NESP will improve system capacity and reduce commercial traffic delays through construction of seven new 1,200-foot locks, mooring cells, and switchboat implementation.

21 Apr 2025

Upper Mississippi River 9-Foot Channel Navigation Project: Locks and Dams, Minnesota/Wisconsin/Iowa

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers St. Paul District is responsible for maintaining 244 miles of the Upper Mississippi River 9-foot channel navigation system. The navigation project within the St. Paul District includes 13 locks and dams that are operated and maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.