Last updated on March 28th, 2023 at 11:42 pm
For research and development, laboratory research and development and tests, work for others regulations, see 32 CFR part 555. CE = Corps of Engineers.
CHAPTER II – CORPS OF ENGINEERS, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
PARTS 200-202 [RESERVED]
PART 203 – EMERGENCY EMPLOYMENT OF ARMY AND OTHER RESOURCES, NATURAL DISASTER PROCEDURES
Subpart A – Introduction
§ 203.11 Purpose.
This part prescribes administrative policies, guidance, and operating procedures for natural disaster preparedness, response, and recovery activities of the United States Army Corps of Engineers.
§ 203.12 Authority.
Section 5 of the Flood Control Act of 1941, as amended, (33 U.S.C. 701n) (69 Stat. 186), commonly and hereinafter referred to as Public Law 84-99, authorizes an emergency fund to be expended at the discretion of the Chief of Engineers for: preparation for natural disasters; flood fighting and rescue operations; repair or restoration of flood control works threatened, damaged, or destroyed by flood, or nonstructural alternatives thereto; emergency protection of federally authorized hurricane or shore protection projects which are threatened, when such protection is warranted to protect against imminent and substantial loss to life and property; and repair and restoration of federally authorized hurricane or shore protection projects damaged or destroyed by wind, wave, or water of other than ordinary nature. The law includes provision of emergency supplies of clean water when a contaminated source threatens the public health and welfare of a locality, and activities necessary to protect life and improved property from a threat resulting from a major flood or coastal storm. This law authorizes the Secretary of the Army (Secretary) to construct wells and to transport water within areas determined by the Secretary to be drought-distressed. The Secretary of the Army has delegated the authority vested in the Secretary under Public Law 84-99 through the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) to the Chief of Engineers, subject to such further direction as the Secretary may provide.
§ 203.13 Available assistance.
Corps assistance provided under authority of Public Law 84-99 is intended to be supplemental to State and local efforts. The principal assistance programs and activities of the Corps are described in this section.
(a) Disaster preparedness. Technical assistance for many types of disasters is available to State and local interests. Primary Corps efforts are focused on technical assistance for, and inspections of, flood control works, and related flood fight preparedness and training activities. Technical assistance for specialized studies, project development, and related activities, and requirements for long term assistance, are normally beyond the scope of disaster preparedness assistance, and are appropriately addressed by other Corps authorities and programs. Subpart B addresses disaster preparedness responsibilities and activities.
(b) Emergency operations. Emergency operations, consisting of Flood Response (flood fight and rescue operations) and Post Flood Response assistance, may be provided to supplement State and local emergency operations efforts. Subpart C of this part addresses emergency operations assistance.
(c) Rehabilitation. The Corps may rehabilitate flood control works damaged or destroyed by floods and coastal storms. The Corps Rehabilitation and Inspection Program (RIP) incorporates both disaster preparedness activities and Rehabilitation Assistance. The RIP consists of a process to inspect flood control works; a status determination, i.e., an inspection-based determination of qualification for future potential Rehabilitation Assistance; and the provision of Rehabilitation Assistance to those projects with Active status that are damaged in a flood or coastal storm event. Subpart D addresses Rehabilitation Assistance and the RIP.
(d) Emergency water supplies due to contaminated water source. The Corps may provide emergency supplies of clean water to any locality confronted with a source of contaminated water causing, or likely to cause, a substantial threat to the public health and welfare of the inhabitants of the locality. Subpart E addresses emergency water supply assistance.
(e) Drought assistance. Corps assistance may be provided to drought-distressed areas (as declared by the Secretary of the Army or his delegated nominee) to construct wells and to transport water for human consumption. Subpart E addresses drought assistance.
(f) Advance Measures. Advance Measures assistance may be provided to protect against imminent threats of predicted, but unusual, floods. Advance Measures projects must be justified from an engineering and economic standpoint, and must be capable of completion in a timely manner. Advance Measures assistance may be provided only to protect against loss of life and/or significant damages to improved property due to flooding. Subpart F of this part addresses Advance Measures assistance.
§ 203.14 Responsibilities of non-Federal interests.
Non-Federal interests, which include State, county and local governments; federally recognized Indian Tribes; and Alaska Native Corporations, are required to make full use of their own resources before Federal assistance can be furnished. The National Guard, as part of the State’s resources when it is under State control, must be fully utilized as part of the non-Federal response. Non-Federal responsibilities include the following:
(a) Disaster preparedness. Disaster preparedness is a basic tenet of State and local responsibility. Disaster preparedness responsibilities of non-Federal interests include:
(1) Operation and maintenance of flood control works;
(2) Procurement and stockpiling of sandbags, pumps, and/or other materials or equipment that might be needed during flood situations;
(3) Training personnel to operate, maintain, and patrol projects during crisis situations, and preparation of plans to address emergency situations;
(4) Taking those actions necessary for flood control works to gain and maintain an Active status in the Corps Rehabilitation and Inspection Program (RIP), as detailed in subpart D of this part; and,
(5) Responsible regulation, management, and use of floodplain areas.
(b) Emergency operations. During emergency operations, non-Federal interests must commit available resources, to include work force, supplies, equipment, and funds. Requests for Corps emergency operations assistance will be in writing from the appropriate State, tribal, or local official. For flood fight direct assistance and Post Flood Response assistance, non-Federal interests must furnish formal written assurances of local cooperation by entering into Cooperation Agreements (CA’s), as detailed in subpart G of this regulation. (For Corps work authorized under Public Law 84-99, the term “Cooperation Agreement” is used to differentiate this agreement from a Project Cooperation Agreement (PCA) that addresses the original construction of a project.) Following Flood Response or Post Flood Response assistance, it is a non-Federal responsibility to remove expedient flood control structures and similar works installed by the Corps under Public Law 84-99.
(c) Rehabilitation of non-Federal flood control projects. Prior to Corps rehabilitation of non-Federal flood control projects, non-Federal interests must furnish formal written assurances of local cooperation by entering into a CA, as detailed in subpart G of this part. Requirements of local participation include such items as provision of lands, easements, rights-of-way, relocations, and suitable borrow and dredged or excavated material disposal areas (LERRD’s), applicable cost-sharing, and costs attributable to deficient and/or deferred maintenance.
(d) Rehabilitation of Federal flood control projects. Sponsors of Federal flood control projects are usually not required to furnish written assurances of local cooperation, if the PCA for the original construction of the project is sufficient. (
(e) Emergency water supplies due to contaminated water source. Except for federally recognized Indian Tribes or Alaska Native Corporations, Non-Federal interests must first seek emergency water assistance through the Governor of the affected State. If the State is unable to provide the needed assistance, then the Governor or his or her authorized representative must request Corps assistance in writing. Similarly, requests for Corps assistance for Indian Tribes or Alaska Native Corporations must be submitted in writing. A CA (see subpart G of this part) is required prior to assistance being rendered. Requests for assistance must include information concerning the criteria prescribed by subpart E of this part.
(f) Drought assistance. Except for federally recognized Indian Tribes or Alaska Native Corporations, non-Federal interests must first seek emergency drinking water assistance through the Governor of the affected State. Requests for Corps assistance will be in writing from the Governor or his or her authorized representative. Similarly, requests for Corps assistance for Indian Tribes or Alaska Native Corporations must be submitted in writing. A CA (see subpart G of this part) is required prior to assistance being rendered. Assistance can be provided to those drought-distressed areas (as declared by the Secretary of the Army) to construct wells and to transport water for human consumption. Requests for assistance must include information concerning the criteria prescribed by subpart E of this part.
(g) Advance Measures. Advance Measures assistance should complement the maximum non-Federal capability. Requests for assistance must be made by the Governor of the affected State, except requests for assistance on tribal lands held in trust by the United States, or on lands of the Alaska Natives, may be submitted directly by the affected Federally recognized Indian Tribe or Alaska Native Corporation, or through the regional representative of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, or through the Governor of the State in which the lands are located. A CA (see subpart G of this part) is required prior to assistance being rendered. Non-Federal participation may include either financial contribution or commitment of non-Federal physical resources, or both.
§ 203.15 Definitions.
The following definitions are applicable throughout this part:
Federal project. A project constructed by the Corps, and subsequently turned over to a local sponsor for operations and maintenance responsibility. This definition also includes any project specifically designated as a Federal project by an Act of Congress.
Flood control project: A project designed and constructed to have appreciable and dependable effects in preventing damage from irregular and unusual rises in water level. For a multipurpose project, only those components that are necessary for the flood control function are considered eligible for Rehabilitation Assistance.
Governor. All references in part 203 to the Governor of a State also refer to: the Governors of United States commonwealths, territories, and possessions; and the Mayor of Washington, D.C.
Hurricane/Shore Protection Project (HSPP). A flood control project designed and constructed to have appreciable and predictable effects in preventing damage to developed areas from the impacts of hurricanes, tsunamis, and coastal storms. These effects are primarily to protect against wave action, storm surge, wind, and the complicating factors of extraordinary high tides. HSPP’s include projects known as shore protection projects, shore protection structures, periodic nourishment projects, shore enhancement projects, and similar terms. Components of an HSPP may include both hard (permanent construction) and soft (sacrificial, i.e., sand) features.
Non-Federal project. A project constructed with non-Federal funds, or a project constructed by tribal, State, local, or private interests, or a component of such a project. A project constructed under Federal emergency disaster authorities, such as Public Law 84-99 or the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 5121, et seq.) (hereinafter referred to as the Stafford Act), is a non-Federal project unless it repairs or replaces an existing Federal project. Works Progress Administration (WPA) projects, and projects funded completely or partially by other (non-Corps) Federal agencies, are considered non-Federal projects for the application of Public Law 84-99 authority.
Non-Federal sponsor. A non-Federal sponsor is a public entity that is a legally constituted public body with full authority and capability to perform the terms of its agreement as the non-Federal partner of the Corps for a project, and able to pay damages, if necessary, in the event of its failure to perform. A non-Federal sponsor may be a State, County, City, Town, Federally recognized Indian Tribe or tribal organization, Alaska Native Corporation, or any political subpart of a State or group of states that has the legal and financial authority and capability to provide the necessary cash contributions and LERRD’s necessary for the project.
Repair and rehabilitation. The term “repair and rehabilitation” means the repair or rebuilding of a flood control structure, after the structure has been damaged by a flood, hurricane, or coastal storm, to the level of protection provided by the structure prior to the flood, hurricane, or coastal storm. “Repair and rehabilitation” does not include improvements (betterments) to the structure, nor does “repair and rehabilitation” include any repair or rebuilding of a flood control structure that, in the normal course of usage, has become structurally unsound and is no longer fit to provide the level of protection for which it was designed.
§ 203.16 Federally recognized Indian Tribes and the Alaska Native Corporations.
Requests for Public Law 84-99 assistance on tribal lands held in trust by the United States, or on lands of the Alaska Natives, may be submitted to the Corps directly by the affected federally recognized Indian Tribe or Alaska Native Corporation, or through the appropriate regional representative of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, or through the Governor of the State.
Subpart B – Disaster Preparedness
§ 203.21 Disaster preparedness responsibilities of non-Federal interests.
Disaster preparedness is a basic tenet of State and local responsibility. Assistance provided under authority of Public Law 84-99 is intended to be supplemental to the maximum efforts of State and local interests. Assistance under Public Law 84-99 will not be provided when non-Federal interests have made insufficient efforts to address the situation for which assistance is requested. Assistance under Public Law 84-99 will not be provided when a request for such assistance is based entirely on a lack of fiscal resources with which to address the situation. Non-Federal interests’ responsibilities are addressed in detail as follows:
(a) Operation and maintenance of flood control works. Flood control works must be operated and maintained by non-Federal interests. Maintenance includes both short-term activities (normally done on an annual cycle, or more frequently) such as vegetation control and control of burrowing animals, and longer term activities such as repair or replacement of structural components (e.g., culverts) of the project.
(b) Procurement/stockpiling. Procurement and stockpiling of sandbags, pumps, and/or other materials or equipment that might be needed during flood situations is a non-Federal responsibility. The Corps is normally a last resort option for obtaining such materials. Local interests should request such materials from State assets prior to seeking Corps assistance. Local interests are responsible for reimbursing (either in kind or in cash) the Corps for expendable flood fight supplies and materials, and returning items such as pumps. When a flood is of sufficient magnitude to receive a Stafford Act emergency or disaster declaration, then the District Engineer may waive reimbursement of expendable supplies.
(c) Training and plans. Training personnel to operate, maintain, and patrol flood control projects during crisis situations is a non-Federal responsibility. Specific plans should be developed and in place to address known problem areas. For instance, the non-Federal sponsor of a levee reach prone to boils should have personnel specifically trained in flood fighting boils. In addition, contingency plans must be made when needed to address short term situations. For instance, if a culvert through a levee is being replaced, then the contingency plan should address all actions needed should a flood event occur during the construction period when levee integrity is lacking.
(d) Corps Rehabilitation and Inspection Program for Flood Control Works. To be eligible for Rehabilitation Assistance under Public Law 84-99, it is a non-Federal responsibility to take those actions necessary for flood control works to gain and maintain an Active status in the Corps Rehabilitation and Inspection Program (RIP), as detailed in subpart D of this part.
Subpart C – Emergency Operations
§ 203.31 Authority.
Emergency operations under Public Law 84-99 apply to Flood Response and Post Flood Response activities. Flood Response activities include flood fighting, rescue operations, and protection of Corps-constructed hurricane/shore protection projects. Post Flood Response activities include certain limited activities intended to prevent imminent loss of life or significant public property, or to protect against significant threats to public health and welfare, and are intended to bridge the time frame between the occurrence of a disaster and the provision of disaster relief efforts under authority of The Stafford Act.
(a) Flood Response. Flood Response measures are applicable to any flood control work where assistance is supplemental to tribal, State, and local efforts, except that Corps assistance is not appropriate to protect flood control works constructed, previously repaired, and/or maintained by other Federal agencies, where such agencies have emergency flood fighting authority. Further, Flood Response measures (except technical assistance) are not appropriate for flood control works protecting strictly agricultural lands. Corps assistance in support of other Federal agencies, or State and local interests, may include the following: technical advice and assistance; lending of flood fight supplies, e.g., sandbags, lumber, polyethylene sheeting, or stone; lending of Corps-owned equipment; hiring of equipment and operators for flood operations; emergency contracting; and similar measures.
(b) Post Flood Response. The Corps may furnish Post Flood Response assistance for a period not to exceed 10 days (the statutory limitation) from the date of the Governor’s request to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for an emergency or disaster declaration under authority of the Stafford Act. Requests for Post Flood Response assistance must be made by the Governor of the affected State, except that requests for assistance on lands held in trust by the United States, or on lands of the Alaska Natives, may be submitted directly by the affected federally recognized Indian Tribe or Alaska Native Corporation, or through the appropriate regional representative of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, or through the Governor of the State in which the lands are located. Assistance from the Corps may include the following: provision of technical advice and assistance; cleaning of drainage channels, bridge openings, or structures blocked by debris deposited during a flood event, where the immediate threat of flooding of or damage to public facilities has not abated; removal of debris blockages of critical water supply intakes, sewer outfalls, etc.; clearance of the minimum amounts of debris necessary to reopen critical transportation routes or public services/facilities; other assistance required to prevent imminent loss of life or significant damage to public property, or to protect against significant threats to public health and welfare. Post Flood Response assistance is supplemental to the maximum efforts of non-Federal interests.
§ 203.32 Policy.
Prior to, during, or immediately following flood or coastal storm activity, emergency operations may be undertaken to supplement State and local activities. Corps assistance is limited to the preservation of life and property, i.e., residential/commercial/industrial developments, and public facilities/services. Direct assistance to individual homeowners, individual property owners, or businesses is not permitted. Assistance will be temporary to meet the immediate threat, and is not intended to provide permanent solutions. All Corps activities will be coordinated with the State Emergency Management Agency or equivalent. Reimbursement of State or local emergency costs is not authorized. The local assurances required for the provision of Corps assistance apply only to the work performed under Public Law 84-99, and will not prevent State or local governments from receiving other Federal assistance for which they are eligible.
(a) Flood Response. Requests for Corps assistance will be in writing from the appropriate requesting official, or his or her authorized representative. When time does not permit a written request, a verbal request from a responsible tribal, State, or local official will be accepted, followed by a written confirmation.
(1) Corps assistance may include operational control of flood response activities, if requested by the responsible tribal, State, or local official. However, legal responsibility always remains with the tribal, State, and local officials.
(2) Corps assistance will be terminated when the flood waters recede below bankfull, absent a short term threat (e.g., a significant storm front expected to arrive within a day or two) likely to cause additional flooding.
(3) Removal of ice jams is a local responsibility. Corps technical advice and assistance, as well as assistance with flood fight operations, can be provided to supplement State and local efforts. The Corps will not perform ice jam blasting operations for local interests.
(b) Post Flood Response. A written request from the Governor is required to receive Corps assistance. Corps assistance will be limited to major floods or coastal storm disasters resulting in life threatening situations. The Governor’s request will include verification that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been requested to make an emergency or disaster declaration; a statement that the assistance required is beyond the State’s capability; specific damage locations; and the extent of Corps assistance required to supplement State and local efforts. Corps assistance is limited to 10 days following receipt of the Governor’s written request, or on assumption of activities by State and local interests, whichever is earlier. After a Governor’s request has triggered the 10-day period, subsequent request(s) for additional assistance resulting from the same flood or coastal storm event will not extend the 10-day period, or trigger a new 10-day period. The Corps will deny any Governor’s request for Post Flood Response if it is received subsequent to a Stafford Act Presidential disaster declaration, or denial of such a declaration. Shoreline or beach erosion damage reduction/prevention actions under Post Flood Response will normally not be undertaken unless there is an immediate threat to life or critical public facilities.
(c) Loan or issue of supplies and equipment. (1) Issuance of Government-owned equipment or materials to non-Federal interests is authorized only after local resources have been fully committed.
(2) Equipment that is lent will be returned to the Corps immediately after the flood operation ceases, in a fully maintained condition, or with funds to pay for such maintenance. The Corps may waive the non-Federal interest’s responsibility to pay for or perform maintenance if a Stafford Act Presidential emergency or disaster declaration has already been made for the affected locality, and the waiver is considered feasible and reasonable.
(3) Expendable supplies that are lent, such as sandbags, will be replaced in kind, or paid for by local interests. The Corps may waive the local interest’s replacement/payment if a Stafford Act Presidential disaster declaration has been made for the affected locality, and the waiver is considered feasible and reasonable. All unused expendable supplies will be returned to the Corps when the operation is terminated.
Subpart D – Rehabilitation Assistance for Flood Control Works Damaged by Flood or Coastal Storm: The Corps Rehabilitation and Inspection Program
§ 203.41 General.
(a) Authority. Public Law 84-99 authorizes repair and restoration of the following types of projects to ensure their continued function:
(1) Flood control projects.
(2) Federally authorized and constructed hurricane/shore protection projects.
(b) Implementation of authority. The Rehabilitation and Inspection Program (RIP) implements Public Law 84-99 authority to repair and rehabilitate flood control projects damaged by floods and coastal storm events. The RIP consists of a process to inspect flood control work; a status determination, i.e., an inspection-based determination of qualification for future Rehabilitation Assistance; and the provision of Rehabilitation Assistance to those projects with Active status that are damaged in a flood or coastal storm event.
(c) Active status. In order for a flood control work to be eligible for Rehabilitation Assistance, it must be in an Active status at the time of damage from a flood or coastal storm event. To gain an Active status, a non-Federal flood control work must meet certain engineering, maintenance, and qualification criteria, as determined by the Corps during an Initial Eligibility Inspection (IEI). To retain an Active status, Federal and non-Federal flood control works must continue to meet inspection criteria set by the Corps, as determined by the Corps during a Continuing Eligibility Inspection (CEI). All flood control works not in an Active status are considered to be Inactive, regardless of whether or not they have previously received a Corps inspection, or Corps assistance.
(d) Modification of flood control projects. Modification of a flood control project to increase the level of protection, or to provide protection to a larger area, is beyond the scope of Public Law 84-99 assistance. Such modifications to Federal projects are normally accomplished under congressional authorization and appropriation, or under Continuing Authorities Programs of the Corps. Such modifications to non-Federal projects are normally accomplished by the non-Federal sponsor and local interests. Modifications necessary to preserve the structural integrity of an existing non-Federal flood control project may be funded by the RIP, but such work must meet the criteria established in § 203.47 to be eligible for funding under Public Law 84-99.
§ 203.42 Inspection of non-Federal flood control works.
(a) Required inspections. The Corps will conduct inspections of non-Federal flood control works. These inspections are IEI’s and CEI’s. Conduct of IEI’s and CEI’s will be as provided for in § 203.48.
(1) Corps involvement with any non-Federal flood control work normally begins when the sponsor requests an IEI. The Corps will conduct an IEI to determine if the flood control work meets minimum engineering and maintenance standards and is capable of providing the intended degree of flood protection. An Acceptable or Minimally Acceptable rating (see § 203.48) on the IEI is required to allow the project to gain an Active status in the RIP.
(2) CEI’s are conducted periodically to ensure that projects Active in the RIP continue to meet Corps standards, and to determine if the sponsor’s maintenance program is adequate. A rating of Acceptable or Minimally Acceptable (see § 203.48) on a CEI is required in order to retain an Active status in the RIP.
(b) Advice and reporting. Information on the results of IEI and CEI inspections will be furnished in writing to non-Federal sponsors, and will be maintained in Corps district offices.
(1) Non-Federal sponsors will be informed that an IEI rating of Unacceptable will cause the flood control work to remain in an Inactive status, and ineligible for Rehabilitation Assistance.
(2) Non-Federal sponsors will be informed that a CEI rating of Unacceptable will cause the flood control work to be placed in an Inactive status, and ineligible for Rehabilitation Assistance.
(3) Non-Federal sponsors will be informed that maintenance deficiencies found during CEI’s may negatively impact on eligibility of future Rehabilitation Assistance, and the degree of local cost-sharing participation in any proposed work. Follow-up inspections can be made by the Corps to monitor progress in correcting deficiencies when warranted.
§ 203.43 Inspection of Federal flood control works.
(a) Required inspections. A completed Federal flood control project, or completed functional portions thereof, is granted Active status in the RIP upon transfer of the operation and maintenance of the project (or functional portion thereof) to the non-Federal sponsor. Federal flood control works will be periodically inspected in accordance with 33 CFR 208.10 and Engineer Regulation (ER) 1130-2-530, Flood Control Operations and Maintenance Policies. These periodic inspections of Federal flood control works are also, for simplicity, known as CEI’s. If a Federal project is found to be inadequately maintained on a CEI, then it will be placed in an Inactive status in the RIP. [
(b) Advice and reporting. Information on the results of CEI inspections will be furnished in writing to non-Federal sponsors, and will be maintained in Corps district offices. Non-Federal sponsors will be informed that a CEI rating of Unacceptable will cause the flood control work to be placed in an Inactive status, and not eligible for Rehabilitation Assistance. Non-Federal sponsors will be informed that maintenance deficiencies found during CEI’s may negatively impact on eligibility of future Rehabilitation Assistance, and the degree of local cost-sharing participation in any proposed work. Follow-up inspections can be made by the Corps to monitor progress in correcting deficiencies when warranted.
§ 203.44 Rehabilitation of non-Federal flood control works.
(a) Scope of work. The Corps will provide assistance in the rehabilitation of non-Federal projects only when repairs are clearly beyond the normal physical and financial capabilities of the project sponsor. The urgency of the work required will be considered in determining the sponsor’s capability.
(b) Eligibility for Rehabilitation Assistance. A flood control project is eligible for Rehabilitation Assistance provided that the project is in an Active status at the time of the flood event, the damage was caused by the flood event, the work can be economically justified, and the work is not otherwise prohibited by this subpart D.
(c) Work at non-Federal expense. At the earliest opportunity prior to commencement of or during authorized rehabilitation work, the Corps will inform the project sponsor of any work that must be accomplished at non-Federal cost. This includes costs to correct maintenance deficiencies, and any modifications that are necessary to preserve the integrity of the project.
(d) Nonconforming works. Any non-Federal project constructed or modified without the appropriate local, State, tribal, and/or Federal permits, or waivers thereof, will not be rehabilitated under Public Law 84-99.
(e) Cooperation Agreements. A Cooperation Agreement is required in accordance with subpart G of this part.
§ 203.45 Rehabilitation of Federal flood control works.
Rehabilitation of Federal flood control projects will be identical to rehabilitation of non-Federal projects (§ 203.44), except for those conditions contained in subpart G of this part concerning cooperation agreements, when the original PCA for the Federal project is sufficient. Additional requirements for Hurricane/Shore Protection Projects are covered in § 203.49.
§ 203.46 Restrictions.
(a) Restrictions to flood control works. Flood control works are designed and constructed to have appreciable and dependable protection in preventing damage from irregular and unusual rises in water levels. Structures built primarily for the purposes of channel alignment, navigation, recreation, fish and wildlife enhancement, land reclamation, habitat restoration, drainage, bank protection, or erosion protection are generally ineligible for Public Law 84-99 Rehabilitation Assistance.
(b) Non-flood related rehabilitation. Rehabilitation of flood control structures damaged by occurrences other than floods, hurricanes, or coastal storms will generally not be provided under Public Law 84-99.
(c) Maintenance and deterioration deficiencies. Rehabilitation under Public Law 84-99 will not be provided for either Federal or non-Federal flood control projects that, as a result of poor maintenance or deterioration, require substantial reconstruction. All deficient or deferred maintenance existing when flood damage occurs will be accomplished by, or at the expense of, the non-Federal sponsor, either prior to or concurrently with authorized rehabilitation work. When work accomplished by the Corps corrects deferred or deficient maintenance, the estimated deferred or deficient maintenance cost will not be included as contributed non-Federal funds, and will be in addition to cost-sharing requirements addressed in § 203.82. Failure of project sponsors to correct deficiencies noted during Continuing Eligibility Inspections may result in ineligibility to receive Rehabilitation Assistance under Public Law 84-99.
(d) Economic justification. No flood control work will be rehabilitated unless the work required satisfies Corps criteria for a favorable benefit-to-cost ratio, and the construction cost of the work required exceeds $15,000. Construction costs greater than $15,000 do not preclude the Corps from making a determination that the required work is a maintenance responsibility of the non-Federal sponsor, and not eligible for Corps Rehabilitation Assistance.
§ 203.47 Modifications to non-Federal flood control works.
Modifications necessary to preserve the structural integrity of existing non-Federal projects may be constructed at additional Federal and non-Federal expense in conjunction with approved rehabilitation work. The additional Federal cost will be limited to not more than one-third of the estimated Federal construction cost of rehabilitation to preflood level of protection, or $100,000, whichever is less. The modification work must be economically justified. Non-Federal interests are required to contribute a minimum of 25% of the total construction costs of the modification, LERRD’s, and any additional funds necessary to support the remaining cost of the modification beyond what the Corps can provide. Engineering and design costs will be at Corps cost.
(a) Cash contributions. Non-Federal contributions will be only in cash. In-kind services are not permitted for modification work.
(b) Protection of additional areas. Modifications designed to provide protection to additional area are not authorized.
§ 203.48 Inspection guidelines for non-Federal flood control works.
(a) Intent. The intent of these guidelines is to facilitate inspections of the design, construction, and maintenance of non-Federal flood control works. The guidelines are not intended to establish design standards for non-Federal flood control works, but to provide uniform procedures within the Corps for conducting required inspections. The results of these inspections determine Active status in the RIP, and thus determine eligibility for Rehabilitation Assistance. The contents of this section are applicable to both IEI’s and CEI’s.
(b) Level of detail. Evaluations of non-Federal flood control works will be made through on site inspections and technical analyses by Corps technical personnel. The level of detail required in an inspection will be commensurate with the complexity of the inspected project, the potential for catastrophic failure to cause significant loss of life, the economic benefits of the area protected, and other special circumstances that may occur. Technical evaluation procedures are intended to establish the general capability of a non-Federal flood control work to provide reliable flood protection.
(c) Purposes. The IEI assesses the integrity and reliability of the flood control work. In addition, other essential information required to help determine the Federal interest in future repairs/rehabilitation to the flood control work will be obtained. The IEI will establish the estimated level of protection and structural reliability of the existing flood control work. Subsequent CEI’s will seek to detect changed project conditions that may have an impact on the reliability of the flood protection provided by the flood control work, to include the level of maintenance being performed on the flood control work.
(d) Inspection components – (1) Hydrologic/hydraulic analyses. The level of protection provided by a non-Federal flood control work will be evaluated and expressed in terms of exceedence frequency (e.g., a 20% chance of a levee being overtopped in any given year). These analyses also include an evaluation of existing or needed erosion control features for portions of a project that may be threatened by stream flows, overland flows, or wind generated waves.
(2) Geotechnical analyses. The Geotechnical evaluation will be based primarily on a detailed visual inspection. As a minimum, for levees, the IEI will identify critical sections where levee stability appears weakest and will document the location, reach, and cross-section at these points.
(3) Maintenance. Project maintenance analysis will evaluate the maintenance performance of the non-Federal sponsor, and deficiencies of the project. This evaluation should reflect the level of maintenance needed to assure the intended degree of flood protection, and assess the performance of recent maintenance on the project. The effects of structures on, over, or under the flood control work, such as buried fiber optic cables, gas pipelines, etc., will be evaluated for impact on the stability of the structure.
(4) Other structural features. Other features that may be present, such as pump stations, culverts, closure structures, etc., will be evaluated.
(e) Ratings. Inspected flood control works will receive a rating in accordance with the table below. The table below provides the general assessment parameters used in assigning a rating to the inspected flood control work.
| Rating | Assessment |
|---|---|
| A – Acceptable | No immediate work required, other than routine maintenance. The flood control project will function as designed and intended, and necessary cyclic maintenance is being adequately performed. |
| M – Minimally Acceptable | One or more deficient conditions exist in the flood control project that need to be improved/corrected. However, the project will essentially function as designed and intended. |
| U – Unacceptable | One or more deficient conditions exist which can reasonably be foreseen to prevent the project from functioning as designed, intended, or required. |
(f) Sponsor reclama. If the results of a Corps evaluation are not acceptable to the project sponsor, the sponsor may choose, at its own expense, to provide a detailed engineering study, preferably certified by a qualified Professional Engineer, as a reclama to attempt to change the Corps evaluation.
§ 203.49 Rehabilitation of Hurricane and Shore Protection Projects.
(a) Authority. The Chief of Engineers is authorized to rehabilitate any Federally authorized hurricane or shore protection structure damaged or destroyed by wind, wave, or water action of an other than ordinary nature when, in the discretion of the Chief of Engineers, such rehabilitation is warranted for the adequate functioning of the project.
(b) Policies. (1) Rehabilitation of HSPP’s is limited to the repair/restoration of the HSPP to a pre-storm condition that allows for the adequate functioning of the project, provided that the damage was caused by an extraordinary storm.
(2) To be eligible for Rehabilitation Assistance, HSPP’s must be:
(i) A completed element of a Federally authorized project; or,
(ii) A portion of a Federally authorized project constructed by non-Federal interests when approval of such construction was obtained from the Commander, Headquarters, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (HQUSACE), or his designated representative; or,
(iii) A portion of a Federally authorized project constructed by non-Federal interests and designated by an Act of Congress as a Federal project; and
(3) Rehabilitation Assistance for sacrificial features will be limited to that necessary to reduce the immediate threat to life and property, or restoration to pre-storm conditions, whichever is less.
(4) To be eligible for rehabilitation, the sacrificial features of an HSPP must be substantially eroded by wind, wave, or water action of an other than ordinary nature. The determination of whether a storm qualifies as extraordinary will be made by the Director of Civil Works, and may be delegated to the Chief, Operations Division, Directorate of Civil Works.
(5) Rehabilitation will not be provided for uncompleted HSPP’s. An HSPP (or separable portion thereof) is considered completed when transferred to the non-Federal sponsor for operation and maintenance.
(6) Definition of extraordinary storm. An extraordinary storm is a storm that, due to prolongation or severity, creates weather conditions that cause significant amounts of damage to a Hurricane/Shore Protection Project. “Prolongation or severity” means a Category 3 or higher hurricane as measured on the Saffir-Simpson scale, or a storm that has an exceedance frequency equal to or greater than the design storm of the project. “Significant amounts of damage” have occurred when:
(i) The cost of the construction effort to effect repair of the HSPP or separable element thereof (exclusive of dredge mobilization and demobilization costs) exceeds $1 million and is greater than two percent of the original construction cost (expressed in current day dollars) of the HSPP or separable element thereof; or,
(ii) The cost of the construction effort to effect repair of the HSPP or separable element thereof (exclusive of dredge mobilization and demobilization costs) exceeds $6 million; or,
(iii) More than one-third of the planned or historically placed sand for renourishment efforts for the HSPP (or separable element thereof) is lost.
(c) Procedural requirements. Rehabilitation of HSPP’S will be done in accordance with § 203.45, except as modified by this section.
(d) Combined rehabilitation and periodic nourishment. In some cases, the non-Federal sponsor may wish to fully restore the sacrificial features of a project where only a partial restoration is justifiable as Rehabilitation Assistance. In these cases, a cost allocation between Rehabilitation Assistance and periodic nourishment under the terms of the project PCA will be determined by the Director of Civil Works.
§ 203.50 Nonstructural alternatives to rehabilitation of flood control works.
(a) Authority. Under Public Law 84-99, the Chief of Engineers is authorized, when requested by the non-Federal sponsor, to implement nonstructural alternatives (NSA’s) to the rehabilitation, repair, or restoration of flood control works damaged by floods or coastal storms.
(b) Policy. (1) The option of implementing an NSA project (NSAP) in lieu of a structural repair or restoration is available only to non-Federal sponsors of flood control works eligible for Rehabilitation Assistance in accordance with this regulation, and only upon the request of such non-Federal sponsors.
(2) A sponsor is required for implementation of an NSAP. The NSAP sponsor must be either a non-Federal sponsor as defined in § 203.15, or another Federal agency. The NSAP sponsor must demonstrate that it has the legal authority and financial capability to provide for the required items of local cooperation.
(3) The Corps shall not be responsible for the operation, maintenance, or management of any NSAP implemented in accordance with this section.
(4) The Corps may, in its sole discretion, reject any request for an NSA that would:
(i) Lead to significantly increased flood protection expenses or flood fighting expenses for public agencies, flood control works sponsors, public utilities, or the Federal Government; or,
(ii) Threaten or have a significant adverse impact on the integrity, stability, or level of protection of adjacent or nearby flood control works; or,
(iii) Lead to increased risk of loss of life or property during flood events.
(5) The principal purposes of an NSAP are for:
(i) Floodplain restoration;
(ii) Provision or restoration of floodways; and,
Habitat restoration is recognized as being a significant benefit that can be achieved with an NSAP, and may be a significant component of an NSAP, but is not considered to be a principal purpose under PL 84-99 authority.
(iii) Reduction of future flood damages and associated flood control works repair costs.
(c) Limitation on Corps expenditures. Exclusive of the costs of investigation, report preparation, engineering and design work, and related costs, Corps expenditures for implementation of an NSAP are limited to the lesser of the Federal share of rehabilitation construction costs of the project were the flood control work to be structurally rehabilitated in accordance with subpart D of this part, or the Federal share of computed benefits which would be derived from such structural rehabilitation. This limitation on Corps expenditures may be waived by the Director of Civil Works or the Chief, Operations Division, Directorate of Civil Works when compelling reasons exist.
(d) Responsibilities of the NSAP non-Federal sponsor. (1) Operate and maintain the NSAP;
(2) Provide, or arrange for and obtain, all funding required to implement the NSAP in excess of the limitation established in paragraph (c) of this section.
(3) Accept the transfer of ownership of any lands or interests in lands acquired by the Corps and determined by the Corps to be necessary to implement the NSAP.
(e) Responsibilities of other Federal agencies acting as NSAP sponsor. The Corps may participate with one or more Federal agencies in NSAP’s. If the Corps is the lead Federal agency, based on mutual agreement of the Federal agencies, then a non-Federal NSAP sponsor is required. (See paragraph (d) of this section.) If another Federal agency is the lead Federal agency, then Corps participation in the NSAP will be based on the content of this section, with appropriate allowances for effecting an NSAP in accordance with the authority and ultimate goal of the lead Federal agency. In such cases, a Memorandum of Agreement between the Corps and the lead Federal agency is required, in accordance with paragraph (1) of this section.
(f) Responsibilities of the requesting flood control work project sponsor. (1) The flood control work project sponsor must request the Corps undertake an NSA project in lieu of rehabilitation of the flood control work, in accordance with the sponsor’s applicable laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations.
(2) If not also the NSAP sponsor, the flood control work project sponsor must:
(i) Divest itself of responsibility to operate and maintain the flood control work involved in the NSAP; and
(ii) Provide to the NSAP sponsor such lands or interests in lands as it may have which the Corps determines are necessary to implement the NSAP.
(g) Allowable Public Law 84-99 expenses for NSAP’s. (1) Acquisition of land or interests in land.
(2) Removal of structures, including manufactured homes, for salvage and/or reuse purposes.
(3) Demolition and removal of structures, including utility connections and related items.
(4) Debris removal and debris reduction.
(5) Removal, protection, and/or relocation of highways, roads, utilities, cemeteries, and railroads.
(6) Construction to promote, enhance, control, or modify water flows into, out of, through, or around the nonstructural project area.
(7) Nonstructural habitat restoration, to include select planting of native and desirable plant species, native species nesting site enhancements, etc.
(8) Total or partial removal or razing of existing reaches of levee, to include removal of bank protection features and/or riprap.
(9) Protection/floodproofing of essential structures and facilities.
(10) Supervision, administrative, and contract administration costs of other expenses allowed in this subparagraph.
(h) Time limitation. Corps participation in development and implementation of an NSAP may cease, at the sole discretion of the Corps, one year after the date of approval of rehabilitation of the damaged flood control work or the date of receipt of the flood control work public sponsor’s request for an NSAP, whichever is earlier, if insufficient progress is being made to develop and implement the NSAP for reasons beyond the control of the Corps. In such circumstances, the Corps may, at its sole discretion, determine that Rehabilitation Assistance for the damaged flood control project may also be denied.
(i) Participation and involvement of other Federal, State, tribal, local, and private agencies. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the participation of other Federal, State, tribal, local, and private agencies in the development, implementation, or future operations and maintenance of an NSAP under this section, subject to the limitations of such participating agency’s authorities and regulations.
(j) Future assistance. After transfer of NSAP operation and maintenance responsibility to the NSAP sponsor or the lead Federal agency, flood-related assistance pursuant to Public Law 84-99 will not be provided anywhere within the formerly protected area of the flood control work, except for rescue operations provided in accordance with § 203.13(b). As an exception, on a case-by-case basis, certain structural flood control works (or elements thereof) repaired or set back as part of the implementation of an NSAP having a non-Federal sponsor may be considered for future flood-related assistance.
(k) Environmental considerations. NSAP’s are subject to the same environmental requirements, restrictions, and limitations as are structural rehabilitation projects.
(l) Requirements for Cooperation Agreement (CA)/Items of Local Cooperation – (1) Requirement for Local Cooperation. In order to clearly define the obligations of the Corps and of non-Federal interests, a CA with the NSAP non-Federal sponsor is required. Requirements are addressed in paragraphs (l)(2) through (10) of this section. When another Federal agency is the lead Federal agency, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Corps and that agency is required. Wording of MOA’s will be similar to, and consistent with, requirements detailed in paragraphs (l)(2) through (10) of this section for CA’s, with appropriate modifications based on the other Federal agencies’ authorized expenditures and programs.
(2) The CA requirements of subpart G of this part are not applicable to NSAP’s.
(3) Items of Local Cooperation. For NSAP’s, non-Federal interests shall:
(i) Provide without cost to the United States all borrow sites and dredged or excavated material disposal areas necessary for the project;
(ii) Hold and save the United States free from damages due to the project, except for damages due to the fault or negligence of the United States or its contractor; and
(iii) Maintain and operate the project after completion in a manner satisfactory to the Chief of Engineers.
(4) Cost sharing. The Corps may assume up to 100 percent of the costs of implementing an NSAP, subject to the limitations set forth in paragraph (c) of this section.
(5) Eligibility under other Federal programs. NSAP CA’s shall not prohibit non-Federal interests from accepting funding from other Federal agencies, so long as the provision of such other Federal agency funding is not prohibited by statute.
(6) Contributed funds. Contributed funds may be accepted without further approval by the Chief of Engineers upon execution of the CA by all parties. The required certificate of the district commander will cite 33 U.S.C. 701h as the pertinent authority.
(7) Obligation of contributed funds. In accordance with OMB Circular A-34, all contributed funds must be received in cash and deposited with the Treasury before any obligations can be made against such funds.
(8) Prohibition of future assistance. The prohibition of future assistance described in paragraph (j) of this section must be included in the NSAP CA.
(9) Assurance of compliance with Executive Order 11988. NSAP CA’s shall include acknowledgment of, and a statement of planned adherence to, Executive Order 11988, Floodplain Management, 3 CFR 117 (1977 Compilation), or as it may be revised in the future, by the NSAP sponsor.
(10) The CA must include a statement of legal restrictions placed on formerly protected lands that would preclude future use and/or development of such lands in a fashion incompatible with the purposes of the NSAP.
(m) Acquisition of LERRD’s. (1) For the acquisition of LERRD’s, reimbursement may be made to the non-Federal sponsor of an NSAP. Such reimbursements are subject to the normal Corps land acquisition process, funding caps set forth in (c) of this section, and availability of appropriations.
(2) For the acquisition of LERRD’s, Corps funding may be combined with the funding of other Federal agencies, absent specific statutory language or principle prohibiting such combinations, under the terms of the MOA with other Federal agencies.
§ 203.51 Levee owner’s manual.
(a) Authority. In accordance with section 202(f) of Public Law 104-303, the Corps will provide a levee owner’s manual to the non-Federal sponsor of all flood control works in an Active status in the RIP.
(b) Policies – (1) Active non-Federal projects. A levee owner’s manual developed and distributed by the Corps will be provided to all sponsors of Active non-Federal projects. The levee owner’s manual will include the standards that must be met to maintain an Active status in the Rehabilitation and Inspection Program. Levee owner’s manuals will also be provided, upon request, to sponsors of Inactive non-Federal projects so that the sponsors may evaluate their projects and prepare for an IEI to gain an Active status in the RIP.
(2) Federal projects. The Operation and Maintenance Manual specified by 33 CFR 208.10(a)(10) will fulfill the requirement of providing a levee owner’s manual if the Corps has not provided a separate levee owner’s manual to the sponsor of a Federal project.
(c) Procedural requirements. Levee Owner’s Manuals will be initially provided to non-Federal sponsors of Active flood control works during scheduled CEI’s and IEI’s. Sponsors of Inactive projects and private levee owners will be provided manuals upon written request to the responsible Corps district.
§ 203.52 [Reserved]
Subpart E – Emergency Water Supplies: Contaminated Water Sources and Drought Assistance
§ 203.61 Emergency water supplies due to contaminated water source.
(a) Authority. The Chief of Engineers is authorized to provide emergency supplies of clean water to any locality confronted with a source of contaminated water causing, or likely to cause, a substantial threat to the public health and welfare of the inhabitants of the locality.
(b) Policies. (1) Any locality faced with a threat to public health and welfare from a contaminated source of drinking water is eligible for assistance.
(2) Eligibility for assistance will be based on one or more of the following factors:
(i) The maximum contaminant level or treatment technique for a contaminant, as established by the Environmental Protection Agency pursuant to the Safe Drinking Water Act (see 40 CFR 141), is exceeded.
(ii) The water supply has been identified as a source of illness by a tribal, State, or Federal public health official. The specific contaminant does not have to be identified.
(iii) An emergency (e.g., a flood or chemical spill) has occurred that has resulted in either: one or more contaminants entering the source on a sufficient scale to endanger health; or, the emergency has made inoperable the equipment necessary to remove known contaminants.
(iv) The presence of a contaminant is indicated on the basis of other information available.
(3) Corps assistance will be directed toward the provision of the minimum amount of water required to maintain the health and welfare requirements of the affected population. The quantity of water and the means of distribution will be at the discretion of the responsible Corps official, who will consider the needs of the individual situation, the needs of the affected community, and the cost effectiveness of providing water by various methods.
(4) If a locality has multiple sources of water, assistance will be furnished only to the extent that the remaining sources, with reasonable conservation measures, cannot provide adequate supplies of drinking water.
(5) Loss of water supply is not a basis for assistance under this authority.
(6) Water will not be furnished for commercial processes, except as incidental to the use of existing distribution systems. This does not prohibit the furnishing of water for drinking by employees and on-site customers. Water for preparing retail meals and similar personal needs may be provided to the extent it would be furnished to individuals.
(7) The permanent restoration of a safe supply of drinking water is the responsibility of local interests.
(8) Corps assistance is limited to 30 days, and requires the local interests to provide assurances of cooperation in a CA. (See subpart G of this part.) Extension of this 30-day period requires agreement (as an amendment to the previously signed CA) between the State and the Corps. This agreement must cover specified services and responsibilities of each party, and provision of a firm schedule for local interests to provide normal supplies of water.
(9) State, tribal, and local governments must make full use of their own resources, including National Guard capabilities.
(c) Governor’s request. A letter signed by the Governor, or his or her authorized representative, requesting Corps assistance and addressing the State’s commitments and capabilities in response to the emergency situation, is required. All requests should identify the following information:
(1) Describe the local and State efforts undertaken. Verify that all reasonably available resources have been committed.
(2) Identify the specific needs of the State, and the required Corps assistance.
(3) Identify additional commitments to be accomplished by the State.
(4) Identify the project sponsor(s).
(d) Non-Federal responsibilities. Non-Federal interests are responsible for restoration of the routine supply of clean drinking water, including correcting any situations that cause contamination. If assistance is furnished by the Corps, local interests must furnish the basic requirements of local cooperation as detailed in the Cooperation Agreement. In all cases, reasonable water conservation measures must be implemented. Local interests will be required to operate and maintain any loaned equipment, and to remove and return such equipment to Federal interests, in a fully maintained condition, after the situation is resolved.
§ 203.62 Drought assistance.
(a) Authority. The Chief of Engineers, acting for the Secretary of the Army, has the authority under certain statutory conditions to construct wells for farmers, ranchers, political subdivisions, and to transport water to political subdivisions, within areas determined to be drought-distressed.
(b) General policy. (1) It is a non-Federal responsibility for providing an adequate supply of water to local inhabitants. Corps assistance to provide emergency water supplies will only be considered when non-Federal interests have exhausted reasonable means for securing necessary water supplies, including assistance and support from other Federal agencies.
(2) Before Corps assistance is considered under this authority, the applicability of other Federal assistance authorities must be evaluated. If these programs cannot provide the needed assistance, then maximum coordination should be made with appropriate agencies in implementing Corps assistance.
(c) Governor’s request. A letter signed by the Governor, requesting Corps assistance and addressing the State’s commitments and capabilities with response to the emergency situation, is required. All requests should identify the following information:
(1) A description of local and State efforts undertaken. A verification that all available resources have been committed, to include National Guard assets.
(2) Identification of the specific needs of the State, and the required Corps assistance.
(3) Identification of the additional commitments to be accomplished by the State.
(4) Identification of the project sponsor(s).
(d) Definitions applicable to this section – (1) Construction. This term includes initial construction, reconstruction, or repair.
(2) Drought-distressed area. An area that the Secretary of the Army determines, due to drought conditions, has an inadequate water supply that is causing, or is likely to cause, a substantial threat to the health and welfare of the inhabitants of the impacted area, including the threat of damage or loss of property.
(3) Eligible applicant. Any rancher, farmer or political subdivision within a designated drought-distressed area that is experiencing an inadequate supply of water due to drought.
(4) Farmer or rancher. An individual who realizes at least one-third of his or her gross annual income from agricultural sources, and is recognized in the community as a farmer or rancher. A farming partnership, corporation, or similar entity engaged in farming or ranching, which receives its majority income from such activity, is also considered to be a farmer or rancher, and thus an eligible applicant.
(5) Political subdivision. A city, town, borough, county, parish, district, association, or other public body created by, or pursuant to, Federal or State law, having jurisdiction over the water supply of such public body.
(6) Reasonable cost. In connection with the Corps construction of a well, means the lesser of:
(i) The cost of the Chief of Engineers to construct a well in accordance with these regulations, exclusive of:
(A) The cost of transporting equipment used in the construction of wells, and
(B) The cost of investigation and report preparation to determine the suitability to construct a well, or,
(ii) The cost to a private business of constructing such a well.
(7) State. Any State, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, Northern Marianas Islands, American Samoa, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
(e) Guidance – construction of wells. (1) Assistance to an eligible applicant for the construction of a well may be provided on a cost-reimbursable basis if:
(i) It is in response to a written request by a farmer, rancher, or political subdivision for construction of a well under Public Law 84-99.
(ii) The applicant is located within an area that the Secretary of the Army has determined to be drought-distressed.
(iii) The Secretary of the Army has made a determination that:
(A) The applicant, as a result of the drought, has an inadequate supply of water.
(B) An adequate supply of water can be made available to the applicant through the construction of a well.
(C) As a result of the drought, a private business could not construct the well within a reasonable time.
(iv) The applicant has secured the necessary funding for well construction from commercial or other sources, or has entered into a contract to pay to the United States the reasonable cost of such construction with interest over a period of years, not to exceed 30, as the Secretary of the Army deems appropriate.
(v) The applicant has obtained all necessary Federal, State and local permits.
(2) The financing of the cost of construction of a well by the Corps under this authority should be secured by the project applicant.
(3) The project applicant will provide the necessary assurances of local cooperation by signing a Cooperation Agreement (subpart G of this part) prior to the start of Corps work under this authority.
(4) Equipment owned by the United States will be utilized to the maximum extent possible in exercising the authority to drill wells, but can only be used when commercial firms cannot provide comparable service within the time needed to prevent the applicant from suffering significantly increased hardships from the effects of an inadequate water supply.
(f) Guidance – transport of water. (1) Assistance to an applicant in the transportation of water may be provided if:
(i) It is in response to a written request by a political subdivision for transportation of water.
(ii) The applicant is located within an area that the Secretary of the Army has determined to be drought-distressed.
(iii) The Secretary of the Army has made a determination that, as a result of the drought, the applicant has an inadequate supply of water for human consumption, and the applicant cannot obtain water.
(2) Transportation of water by vehicles, small diameter pipe line, or other means will be at 100 percent Federal cost.
(3) Corps assistance in the transportation of emergency water supplies will be provided only in connection with water needed for human consumption. Assistance will not be provided in connection with water needed for irrigation, recreation, or other non-life supporting purposes, or livestock consumption.
(4) Corps assistance will not include the purchase of water, nor the cost of loading or discharging the water into or from any Government conveyance, to include Government-leased conveyance.
(5) Equipment owned by the United States will be utilized to the maximum extent possible in exercising the authority to transport water, consistent with lowest total Federal cost.
(g) Request for assistance. A written request must be made to the district commander with Civil Works responsibility for the affected area. Upon receipt of a written request, the appropriate State and Federal agencies will be notified, and coordination will continue as appropriate throughout the assistance.
Subpart F – Advance Measures
§ 203.71 Policy.
Advance Measures consists of those activities performed prior to a flood event, or potential flood event, to protect against loss of life and/or significant damages to improved property from flooding. Emergency work under this authority will be considered when requested by the Governor of a State confronted with an imminent threat of unusual flooding. Corps assistance will be to complement the maximum efforts of tribal, State, and local authorities. Projects will be designed for the specific threat, normally of expedient-type construction, and typically temporary in nature.
§ 203.72 Eligibility criteria and procedures.
(a) Threat of flooding. An imminent threat of unusual flooding must exist before Advance Measures projects can be approved. The threat may be established by National Weather Service predictions, or by Corps of Engineers determinations of unusual flooding from adverse or unusual conditions. The threat must be clearly defined to the extent that it is readily apparent that damages will be incurred if preventive action is not taken immediately.
(b) Governor’s request. A letter signed by the Governor, requesting Corps assistance and addressing the State’s commitments and capabilities with response to the emergency situation, is required. All requests should identify the following information:
(1) Describe the non-Federal efforts undertaken. Verify that all available resources have been committed.
(2) Identify the specific needs, and the required Corps assistance.
(3) Identify additional commitments to be accomplished by the non-Federal interests.
(4) Identify the non-Federal sponsor(s).
(c) Feasibility. The proposed work should be temporary in nature, technically feasible, designed to deal effectively and efficiently with the specific threat, and capable of construction in time to prevent anticipated damages.
(d) Economic justification. All work undertaken under this category must have a favorable benefit-to-cost ratio, under Corps of Engineers economic guidelines.
(e) Local cooperation/responsibilities. Subpart G of this part provides requirements for a Cooperation Agreement needed to provide local assurances. The project sponsor must remove temporary works constructed by the Corps when the operation is over, at no cost to the Corps.
(f) Contingency planning efforts for potential Advance Measures activities. Occasionally weather phenomena occur which produce a much higher than normal probability or threat of flooding which may be predicted several months in advance of occurrence or significant impact. Impacts on specific locations may be unpredictable, but regional impacts may have a high likelihood of occurrence. In such situations, the Corps may provide technical and contingency planning assistance to tribal, State, and local agencies, commensurate with the predicted weather phenomenon, based on requests for assistance from such tribal, State, and local agencies. Specific Advance Measures projects must be addressed as specified in paragraph (b) of this section.
(g) Definitions – (1) Imminent threat. A subjective statistical evaluation of how quickly a threat scenario can develop, and how likely that threat is to develop in a given geographical location. Implicit in the timing aspect can be considerations of available time (when the next flood or storm event is likely to occur), season (e.g., a snowpack that will melt in the coming spring runoff), or of known cyclical activities.
(2) Unusual flooding. A subjective determination that considers potential ability to approach an area’s flood of record, a catastrophic level of flooding, or a greater than 50-year level of flooding.
Subpart G – Local Interests/Cooperation Agreements
§ 203.81 General.
(a) Requirements for Cooperation Agreements. In order to maintain a firm understanding between the Corps and non-Federal interests concerning the responsibilities of each party in responding to or recovering from a natural disaster, division or district commanders shall negotiate a cooperation agreement (CA) with a non-Federal sponsor whenever assistance (other than short term technical assistance) is furnished. CA’s do not require approval by HQUSACE unless they contain special or unusual conditions. For assistance to other than a public entity, a public agency is required to be the non-Federal sponsor, co-sign the agreement, and be responsible, from the Corps perspective, for accomplishment of all work and conditions required in the CA. Project sponsors must meet the definition contained in § 203.15.
(b) Request for assistance. (1) For urgent situations involving Flood Response activities, division/district commanders may respond to oral requests from responsible representatives of local interests. However, all oral requests must be confirmed in writing. Assistance can be furnished before the written statement is received.
(2) Before furnishing assistance (other than short term technical assistance) under Advance Measures, or under Emergency Water Supplies, the district/division commander must receive a request, signed by the Governor (or the Governor’s representative for Emergency Water assistance due to a contaminated source), identifying the problem, verifying that all available State and local resources have been committed, and requesting Federal assistance.
§ 203.82 Requirements of local cooperation.
It is Corps policy that provision of assistance under Public Law 84-99 will, insofar as feasible, require local interests to: provide without cost to the United States all LERRD’s necessary for the authorized work; hold and save the United States free from damages due to the authorized work, exclusive of damages due to the fault or negligence of the United States or its contractor; maintain and operate, in a manner satisfactory to the Chief of Engineers, all the works after completion. When assistance includes the construction of temporary protective works, the maintain and operate clause is modified by adding (or substituting, as applicable) the requirement for local interests to remove any temporary works constructed by the Corps under Public Law 84-99. If any permanent works are constructed, then the sponsor is required to operate and maintain the project in accordance with requirements determined by the Corps.
(a) Furnishing of LERRD’s. This item provides for sites of structures, for borrow and disposal areas, and for access. It also provides for all other rights in, upon, through, or over private property as needed by the United States in connection with the authorized work. Performance by the local interests under their assurance to furnish LERRD’s will normally not be considered a contribution. If more advantageous to the Federal Government, borrow and disposal areas may be assumed as a Federal responsibility. Easements must be provided for future Federal inspection of maintenance or removal. If a public agency sponsors a project for a non-public applicant, the applicant must provide an easement to the sponsor for future maintenance or removal, as well as for Federal inspection. Easements should extend to the life of the project.
(b) Hold and save clause. This clause serves as legal protection of the government. Where property concerned is under tenancy, both the property owner and the tenant should acknowledge the non-Federal sponsor’s signed CA.
(c) Maintain and operate clause. This item is intended to protect the investment of government resources and provide proper stewardship of resources entrusted to the Corps. This clause must include: “It is understood that the foregoing maintenance and operation requirement extends to interrelated features of all protective work under the control of (insert name of sponsor, and owner if appropriate).”
(d) Removal of temporary works. Local interests are responsible for the removal of all temporary works constructed by the Corps, which are unsuitable for upgrade to permanent structures. Structures may be deemed unsuitable due to inherent health, access, or safety problems that could result from their location. The wording of this clause must not preclude the use of other Federal assistance programs to fund removal.
(e) Request for retention of temporary flood control works. Local interests may ask to retain a temporary structure for protection from future floods. This will not be approved by the Corps unless the works are upgraded to meet all Corps criteria for permanent projects. Public Law 84-99 funds will not be used to upgrade the structure. An upgraded project must comply with permitting, environmental, and other regulatory and legal requirements. Unless upgraded, such projects are not eligible for rehabilitation, and must be removed in accordance with paragraph (d) of this section. Unless upgraded, temporary projects which are not removed by the local sponsor will cause all projects with the same sponsor to lose eligibility for Public Law 84-99 assistance. Local interests must initiate action to upgrade or remove the temporary works within 30 days after the flood threat has passed.
(f) Cost sharing. (1) The Federal Government may assume up to 80 percent of the eligible construction costs for rehabilitation of non-Federal flood control projects, and up to 100 percent of the eligible construction costs for rehabilitation of Federal flood control projects. The Federal Government may assume up to 100 percent of the eligible construction costs for rehabilitation of HSPP’s. Sponsors will provide their share of costs as provided for in § 203.84. The sponsor’s share is in addition to providing costs for LERRD’s, and any costs for correction of any deferred/deficient maintenance. The Corps will determine the dollar value of any in-kind services provided by the local sponsor.
(2) For those unusual occasions where permanent construction (vice the temporary standard) for Advance Measures projects is employed, the local sponsor will normally be required to provide 25 percent of the project cost, in addition to LERRD’s.
§ 203.83 Additional requirements.
(a) Maintenance deficiencies. Rehabilitation, Emergency Water, Post Flood Response, and Advance Measures authorities may not be used to correct deferred or deficient maintenance. Such correction must be accomplished by, or at the expense of, local interests. This may include restoring normal levee or dune height after subsidence, replacement of deteriorated components such as outlet structures and pipes, removal of debris, and new construction items such as protection against erosion. This restriction on use of these authorities does not preclude furnishing flood fight assistance during an emergency.
(b) Areas of minor damage, flood control works. Separable areas with minor damage will be included in the maintenance program of local interests.
(c) Minor completion items. Local interests should be responsible for minor completion items, such as dressing fills, placing sod, or seeding completed work.
(d) Adequacy of requirements of local cooperation. In determining the adequacy of the pledge of local cooperation, district/division commanders must consider the local sponsor’s performance capability, taking into account any shortcomings in meeting prior commitments. Local sponsors should make provisions to establish and provide resources for a “Contingency Fund” to meet future maintenance requirements if apparent inadequacies of protective works indicate maintenance costs will be unusually high. Local sponsors should make provisions to establish and provide resources for a “Capital Improvement Fund” to meet future costs of capital improvement projects such as replacement of culverts in levees, pump station equipment, etc.
(e) Eligibility under other Federal programs. The Cooperation Agreement must be worded to allow local interests to accept funding from other Federal programs for meeting the local responsibility. For example, removal of temporary works will be without cost under Corps Public Law 84-99 assistance, but will not be “at no cost to the United States.” Use of another Federal agency’s funds is contingent upon that agency providing the Corps written assurance that such usage does not violate any existing laws or rules concerning the usage or expenditure of such funds.
§ 203.84 Forms of local participation – cost sharing.
In addition to the standard requirements of local cooperation and according to the circumstances, local participation in project work may be in the form of: contributed funds; the furnishing of materials, equipment, or services; and/or accomplishment of work either concurrently or within a specified reasonable period of time. The final terms agreed upon will be set forth in writing and made a part of the CA before commencement of work.
(a) Contributed funds. Contributed funds may be accepted, or refunded, without further reference or approval by the Chief of Engineers. The required certificate of the district commander will cite 33 U.S.C. 701h as the pertinent authority.
(b) Obligation of contributed funds. Per OMB Circular A-34, all contributed funds must be received in cash and deposited with the Treasury before any obligations can be made against such funds. Public Law 84-99 assistance for well construction is exempted from this requirement because financing is specifically authorized. However, the CA for such well construction assistance (see subpart G of this part) must be signed in advance of any obligations. To reduce administrative problems, CA terms for well construction should be for no longer a period than that which will allow for payments within the means of the applicant. Public Law 84-99 limits the term to a maximum of 30 years.
(c) Provision of work or services in kind. To the extent practicable, local interests should be allowed to minimize the amount of contributed funds by providing equivalent work or services in kind. Such services do not include LERRD’s.
§ 203.85 Rehabilitation of Federal flood control projects.
Some sponsors of Federal flood control projects are not required to furnish written assurances of local cooperation, when such assurances already exist from the PCA of the original construction of the project. In lieu of a new PCA, the Corps will notify the sponsor, in writing, of the sponsor’s standing requirements. These requirements include such items as LERRD’s, costs attributable to deficient or deferred maintenance, removal of temporary works, cost-sharing requirements, and any other requirements contained in § 203.82. The project sponsor must acknowledge its responsibilities prior to the provision of Rehabilitation Assistance. If the existing PCA does not adequately address responsibilities, then a CA will be required.
§ 203.86 Transfer of completed work to local interests.
Responsibility for operation and maintenance of a project for which emergency work under Public Law 84-99 is undertaken will always remain with the non-Federal sponsor throughout the process, and thereafter. The Corps will notify the non-Federal sponsor by letter when repair/rehabilitation/work efforts are completed. Detailed instructions, and suggestions relative to proper maintenance and operation, may be furnished as an enclosure to this letter. The letter will remind the local interests that they are responsible for satisfactory maintenance of the flood control works in accordance with the terms of the PCA or CA. In appropriate cases for Federal projects, refer to the “Flood Control Regulation for Maintenance and Operation of Flood Control Works: (33 CFR 208)” or the project’s Operation and Maintenance Manual. Reporting requirements placed on the non-Federal sponsor will vary according to organization and other circumstances.
PART 207 – NAVIGATION REGULATIONS
§ 207.9 Mystic River, Mass.; dam of Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Metropolitan District Commission.
(a) Definition and authority of superintendent. The term superintendent as used in the regulations in this section shall mean himself and/or his personnel then on duty at the dam. The positioning and movements of all watercraft of every description while in the locks or within 100 yards of the locks or dam shall be subject to the direction of the superintendent whose orders must be obeyed. This order does not relieve the master of the responsibility for the safety of his vessel.
(b) Description of locks. There are three (3) locks to be used for the passage of vessels; one large lock 325 feet long, 45 feet wide, shall be used for vessels with draft up to seventeen (17) feet; two small locks each 120 feet long and 22 feet wide shall be used for boats up to six (6) feet draft.
(c) Maximum draft. Vessels drawing within six (6) inches of depth over the sills shall not be permitted lockage except under special permission of the superintendent. Every vessel using the locks and drawing more than ten (10) feet shall be accurately and distinctly marked at bow and stern showing the exact draft of water at such portions of the vessel. Gages set into the walls or the locks, both upstream and downstream of each gate, indicate the depth in feet of water over the sill of the gate.
(d) Vessels denied lockage. The superintendent may deny passage through the locks to any craft with sharp, rough projecting corners, overhanging equipment or cargo, or any craft or two that is in sinking condition or in any way unseaworthy or insufficiently manned and equipped, or any craft failing to comply with the regulations in this section or with any orders given in pursuance thereof.
(e) Protection of lock gates. (1) In no case shall boats be permitted to enter or leave any of the locks until directed to do so by the superintendent. Boats shall not be permitted to enter or start to leave until the lock gates are at rest within the gate recesses. All persons, whether in charge of vessels or not, are prohibited from willfully or carelessly damaging the locks or any of the appurtenances or the grounds adjacent thereto, and from throwing or allowing any material of any kind to fall from the barge, scow or other vessel into the locks.
(2) No person shall permit or suffer any vessel, scow, raft, or float to come in contract with any gate or any of the locks of the Amelia Earhart Dam.
(f) Damage to walls. The sides of all craft passing through the locks must be free from projection of any kind which might injure the lock walls. All craft must be provided with suitable fenders. One or more men as the superintendent may direct shall be kept at the head of every tow until it has cleared the lock and guide walls, and shall protect the walls by use of the fenders.
(g) Unnecessary delay at locks. No person shall cause or permit any craft of which he is in charge to remain in the locks or their approaches for a longer period of time than is necessary for the passage of the locks unless he is especially permitted to do so by the superintendent, and if such craft is, in the opinion of such superintendent, in a position to obstruct navigation, it shall be removed at once as requested or directed by the superintendent.
(h) Procedure at locks. The locks shall be operated promptly for the passage of all craft upon signal, excepting only in such cases as are specifically provided for in the regulations in this section. All registered merchant vessels shall pass through the locks in the order directed by the superintendent. Other craft shall be allowed to pass through the locks at the discretion of the superintendent.
(i) Navigation of the locks. (1) All barges navigating the locks whether approaching or leaving the locks are required to be assisted by one or more tugs of sufficient power to insure full control at all times. All craft approaching the locks while any other vessel going in the opposite direction is in or about to enter shall be stopped where they will not obstruct the free passage of such other vessel.
(2) All vessels over 100 gross tons including those which are accompanied by towboats must attach not less than two good and sufficient lines, cables, or hawsers to the bollards or other fixtures provided for the purpose to check the speed of the vessel and to stop it as soon as it has gone far enough to permit the lock gate behind it to be closed. Each line, cable, or hawser shall be attended on board while passing into the lock by one or more of the vessel’s crew. Where vessels are so long that in order to get them wholly within the locks it is necessary to go within 100 feet of the lock gate ahead, the speed of the vessel must be slow and the vessel must be fully under control at all times by the lines, cables or hawsers. All towboats and vessels less than 100 gross tons may enter the locks without having lines out subject to the discretion of the superintendent. The master or person in charge of a vessel shall arrange to have any line, cable, or hawser handed or thrown from the lock walls by the superintendent, or his assistants, made fast on the vessel as requested or directed, so that in cases of emergency such line, cable, or hawser may also be used to check the speed of and stop the vessel.
(3) Operators of vessels less than 200 gross tons may use the floating moorings in the large lock to fasten lines or hawsers, but they shall not be used to check the way on any vessel greater than 30 gross tons.
(4) Vessels less than 30 gross tons may fasten lines to the floating moorings in the large or small locks. All persons shall keep off the floating moorings at all times.
(5) No line shall be attached to anything on or a part of the dam except the fixtures provided for this purpose.
(6) Equipment of each craft shall include a sufficient bow line and stern line.
(j) Mooring. When a craft is in position in the lock, it shall be securely fastened in a manner satisfactory to the superintendent to prevent the craft moving about while the lock is being filled or emptied, and the lines, cables, or hawsers used for this purpose shall be attended as far as is necessary or required while the filling or emptying is in progress.
(k) [Reserved]
(l) Signals. (1) All craft desiring lockage shall, on approaching the locks, signal by two long and two short blasts of a whistle or other sound device. Two long blasts from the lock in reply will indicate a delayed opening and direct the craft not to enter the lock.
(2) Lights are located at each end of each lock and will normally show red. No vessel shall come within 100 feet of the outside of any gate when the signal is red except when so directed by the superintendent.
(3) Fireboats and craft owned by the U.S. Government shall be given prompt and preferential lockage when they sound four long blasts.
(4) No vessel shall move into or out of any lock until the controlling signal is green. A green light in addition to audio loud speakers, operated by the superintendent or his assistants, will direct craft through the locks.
(5) It shall be the duty of every master or person in charge of any vessel to ascertain by personal observation that the lock gate is fully open before proceeding.
(m) Operating machinery. Lock employees only shall be permitted to operate the lock gates, signals or other appliances. No person shall deface or injure any part of the Amelia Earhart Dam, or any pier, wall or other structure or any mechanism connected therewith; nor shall any person, without the consent of the superintendent, make fast to the dam, guard, guide wall, pier, or any appurtenance thereof any vessel, scow, raft, or float.
(n) Vessel to carry regulations. A copy of the regulations in this section shall be kept at all times on board each vessel regularly engaged in navigating the locks. Copies may be obtained without charge from the superintendent; the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, M.D.C. Parks Division, Boston, Mass.; New England Division, Corps of Engineers, Division Engineer, Waltham, Mass.
§ 207.10 Charles River, Mass.; dam of Charles River Basin Commission.
(a) The movements of all vessels or boats in and near the lock shall be under the direction of the superintendent in charge of these structures and his assistants, whose orders and signals shall be obeyed.
(b) Every vessel using the lock and drawing more than 10 feet shall be accurately and distinctly marked at the bow and stern, showing the exact draft of water at such portions of the vessel.
(c) All steam vessels desiring to pass through the lock shall signal for the same by two long and two short blasts of the whistle.
(d)(1) All vessels passing through the lock shall have their outboard spars, if any, rigged in, and booms amidships, and secured. All standing and running rigging must be triced in to keep it from blowing out and fouling the drawbridge. Every vessel of 200 tons and under shall be provided with at least two, and every vessel of more than 200 tons shall be provided with at least four good and sufficient lines, cables, or hawsers. Anchors shall either be stowed or shall hang from hawse pipes, hauled up close, clear of the water if possible. Vessels with anchors under foot or hanging from catheads will not be permitted to enter the lock.
(2) All vessels must be sufficiently manned and must have a sufficient number of round and fore-and-aft fenders to protect the lock from injury. All heavy rope fenders must be securely lashed to prevent their falling into the lock and interfering with the gates.
(e) All vessels approaching the lock while any other vessel going in the opposite direction is in or about to enter it shall be stopped where they will not obstruct the free passage of such other vessel.
(f) It shall be the duty of every master or person in charge of any vessel upon approaching the lock from the upstream end to ascertain by personal observation whether or not the upper lock gate is open, and a vessel shall not be permitted to come within 100 feet of the upper lock gate until the gate has been wholly withdrawn into its recess.
(g) All towboats, whether towing or not, and other steam vessels of less than 100 tons gross may enter the lock under their own power and without having lines out, but all other vessels, including those which are accompanied by towboats, must attach not less than two good and sufficient lines, cables, or hawsers to the bollards or other fixtures provided for the purpose to check the speed of the vessel and to stop it as soon as it has gone far enough to permit the lock gate behind it to be closed, and each line, cable, or hawser shall be attended on board while passing into the lock by one or more of the vessel’s crew. Where vessels are so long that in order to get them wholly within the lock it is necessary to approach within 150 feet of the lock gate ahead, the speed of the vessel must be slow and fully under control by the lines, cables, or hawsers. Steam vessels of more than 100 tons gross, not including towboats, will not be permitted to turn their propellers on entering the lock after the bow of the vessel has entered, but will be drawn in by means of capstans on the lock walls or otherwise, and their speed must be checked and the vessel stopped by lines, cables, or hawsers as in other cases. All steam vessels may leave the lock under their own power. The master or person in charge of a vessel shall arrange to have any line, cable, or hawser handed or thrown from the lock walls by the superintendent or his assistants, made fast on the vessel as requested or directed, so that in cases of emergency such line, cable, or hawser may also be used to check the speed of and stop the vessel.
(h) When a vessel is in position in the lock it shall be securely fastened in a manner satisfactory to the superintendent, or his assistant in charge of the lock at the time, to prevent the vessel from moving about while the lock is being filled or emptied, and the lines, cables, and hawsers used for this purpose shall be attended as far as is necessary or required while the filling or emptying is in progress.
(i) No vessel which has iron or irons projecting from it or lumber or other cargo projecting over its sides shall enter the lock, except at such time and with such precautions to prevent damage to the lock or its appurtenances as the superintendent, or the assistant in charge of the lock at the time, may require.
(j) All persons, whether in charge of vessels or not, are prohibited from willfully or carelessly damaging the lock, any of its appurtenances or the grounds adjacent thereto, and from throwing any material of any kind into the lock. No line shall be attached to anything except the bollards and other fixtures provided for the purpose.
(k) Upon each passage through the lock, the master or clerk of a vessel shall make a statement of the kind and tonnage of the freight carried.
(l) No person shall cause or permit any vessel or boat of which he is in charge to remain in the lock or its approaches for a longer time than is necessary for the passage of the lock, unless he is especially permitted to do so by the superintendent or the assistant in charge of the lock at the time, and if such vessel or boat is, in the opinion of such superintendent or assistant, in a position to obstruct navigation it shall be removed at once as requested or directed by such superintendent or assistant.
(m) All registered merchant vessels shall pass through the lock in the order directed by the superintendent or the assistant in charge of the lock at the time. Unregistered craft will not be allowed to pass through the lock separately unless especially permitted by such superintendent or assistant.
(n) The lock shall be operated promptly for the passage of all vessels upon signal excepting only in such cases as are specifically provided for in this section.
(a) Limit of Canal. The canal, including approaches, extends from the Canal Station Minus 100 in Cape Cod Bay, approximately one and six-tenths (1.6) statute miles seaward of the Canal Breakwater Light, through dredged channels and land cuts to Cleveland Ledge Light in Buzzards Bay approximately four (4) statute miles southwest of Wings Neck.
(b) Supervision. (1) The movement of ships, boats and craft of every description through the canal and the operation and maintenance of the waterway and all property of the United States pertaining thereto shall be under the supervision of the Division Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer Division, New England, Corps of Engineers, Waltham, Massachusetts, or the authorized representative of the division engineer, the Engineer-In-Charge of the Cape Cod Canal. The division engineer or the Engineer-In-Charge from time to time will prescribe rules governing the dimensions of vessels which may transit the waterway, and other special conditions and requirements which will govern the movement of vessels using the waterway.
(2) The Engineer-In-Charge, through the marine traffic controller on duty, will enforce these regulations and monitor traffic through the canal. The marine traffic controller on duty is the individual responsible for interpretation of these regulations with respect to vessels transiting the canal. Vessels transiting the canal must obey the orders of the marine traffic controller.
(3) The government has tugs stationed at the West Boat Basin for emergency use on an on-call basis. A patrol vessel is manned and operational 24-hours a day.
(c) Communications. There is a marine traffic controller on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in the traffic control center located at the Canal Administrative Office. The primary method of communications between the canal and vessels transiting will be by VHF-FM Marine radio. The traffic controller can also be contacted by telephone.
(1) For radio communications, call the traffic controller on channel 16 to establish contact. The transmissions will then be switched to channel 12 or 14 as the working channel to pass information. Channel 13 is also available at the canal office; however, the use of channel 13 should be limited to emergency situations or whenever vessels do not have one of the other channels. All four channels are monitored continuously by the traffic controller. Radio discipline will be adhered to in accordance with FCC rules and regulations.
(2) For telephone communications with the traffic controller, call (617) 759-4431.
(3) Vessels shall maintain a radio guard on Marine VHF-FM channel 13 during the entire passage through the canal.
(4) All radio communications in the vicinity of the canal are tape recorded for future reference.
(d) Vessels allowed passage. The canal is open for passage to all adequately powered vessels properly equipped and seaworthy, of sizes consistent with safe navigation as governed by the controlling depths and widths of the channel and the vertical and horizontal clearances of the bridges over the waterway. The granting of permission for any vessel to proceed through the waterway shall not relieve the owners, agents and operators of full responsibility for its safe passage. No vessel having a greater draft forward than aft will be allowed to transit the canal. Craft of low power and wind driven are required to have and use auxiliary power during passage throughout the canal as defined in paragraph (a) of this section. Low powered vessels will be required to await slack water or favorable current for canal transit.
(e) Tows. (1) Tows shall be made-up outside the canal entrances. All vessels engaged in towing other vessels not equipped with a rudder shall use two lines or a bridle and one tow line. If the vessel in tow is equipped with a rudder or a ship shaped bow, one tow line may be used. All tow lines of hawsers must be hauled as short as practicable for safe handling of the tows. No towboat will be allowed to enter the waterway with more than two barges in tow unless prior approval is granted by the Engineer-In-Charge; requests must be submitted 12 hours in advance of the passage.
(2) The maximum length of pontoon rafts using the canal will be limited to 600 feet, and the maximum width to 100 feet. Pontoon rafts exceeding 200 feet in length will be required to have an additional tug on the stern to insure that the tow is kept in line. The tugs used must have sufficient power to handle the raft safely.
(3) Dead ships are required to transit the canal during daylight hours and must be provided with the number of tugs sufficient to afford safe passage through the canal. (A dead ship will not be allowed to enter the canal unless prior approval is granted by the Engineer-In-Charge; requests must be submitted 12 hours in advance of the passage).
(f) Dangerous cargoes. The master or pilot of any vessel or tow carrying dangerous cargoes must notify the Marine Traffic Controller prior to entering the canal. Dangerous cargoes are defined as those items listed in 33 CFR 126.10 when carried in bulk (i.e., quantities exceeding 110 U.S. gallons in one tank) plus Class A explosives (commercial or military) as listed in 49 CFR 173.53 (commercial) and 46 CFR 146.29-100 (military), liquified natural gas and liquified petroleum gas. Transportation of dangerous cargoes through the canal shall be in strict accordance with existing regulations prescribed by law. In addition, vessels carrying dangerous cargoes shall comply with the following requirements.
(1) They must have sufficient horsepower to overcome tidal currents or they will be required to wait for favorable current conditions.
(2) Transits will be during daylight hours.
(3) No transit will be permitted when visibility conditions are unstable or less than 2 miles at the approaches and throughout the entire length of the canal.
(4) Transits must await a clear canal for passage.
(g) Obtaining clearance. (1) Vessels under 65 feet in length may enter the canal without obtaining clearance. All craft are required to make a complete passage through the canal except excursion craft which may operate and change direction within the canal in accordance with procedures coordinated with the marine traffic controller on duty. When the railroad bridge span is in the closed (down) position, all vessels are directed not to proceed beyond the points designated by stop signs posted east and west of the railroad bridge. Vessels proceeding with a fair tide (with the current) should turn and stem the current at the designated stop points until the railroad bridge is in the raised (open) position.
(2) Vessels 65 feet in length and over shall not enter the canal until clearance has been obtained from the marine traffic controller by radio. See paragraph (c) “Communications” for procedures. If a vessel, granted prior clearance, is delayed or stops at the mooring basins, state pier, or the Sandwich bulkhead, a second clearance must be obtained prior to continuing passage through the canal.
(3) Vessels will be given clearance in the order of arrival, except when conditions warrant one-way traffic, or for any reason an order of priority is necessary, clearance will be granted in the following order.
(i) First – To vessels owned or operated by the United States, including contractors’ equipment employed on canal maintenance or improvement work.
(ii) Second – To passenger vessels.
(iii) Third – To tankers and barges docking and undocking at the Canal Electric Terminal.
(iv) Fourth – To merchant vessels, towboats, commercial fishing vessels, pleasure boats and miscellaneous craft.
(4) Procedures in adverse weather: Vessels carrying flammable or combustible cargoes as defined in 46 CFR 30.25 will be restricted from passage through the canal when visibility is less than
(h) Traffic lights. There are three sets of traffic lights showing red, green, and yellow that are operated on a continuous basis at the canal. The traffic lights apply to all vessels 65 feet in length and over. The traffic lights are a secondary system that is operated in support of the radio communications system. The traffic lights are located at the easterly canal entrance, Sandwich, and at the westerly entrance to Hog Island Channel at Wings Neck. A third traffic light is located at the Canal Electric Terminal basin on the south side of the canal in Sandwich, and applies only to vessels arriving and departing that terminal.
(1) Westbound traffic. When the green light is on at the eastern (Cape Cod Bay) entrance, vessels may proceed westward through the canal. When the red light is on, any type of vessel 65 feet in length and over must stop clear of the Cape Cod Bay entrance channel. When the yellow light is on, vessels 65 feet in length and over and drawing less than 25 feet may proceed as far as the East Mooring Basin where they must stop. Prior to continuing passage through the canal, clearance must be obtained from the marine traffic controller.
(2) Eastbound traffic. When the green light is on at Wings Neck, vessels may proceed eastward through the canal. When the red light is on, vessels 65 feet and over in length and drawing less than 25 feet must keep southerly of Hog Island Channel Entrance Buoys Nos. 1 and 2 and utilize the general anchorage areas adjacent to the improved channel. Vessel traffic drawing 25 feet and over are directed not to enter the canal channel at the Cleveland Ledge Light entrance and shall lay to or anchor in the vicinity of Buzzards Bay Buoy No. 11 (FLW & Bell) until clearance is granted by the canal marine traffic controller or a green traffic light at Wings Neck is displayed. When the yellow light is on, vessels may proceed through Hog Island Channel as far as the West Mooring Basin where they must stop. Prior to continuing passage through the canal, clearance must be obtained from the marine traffic controller.
(i) Railroad Bridge Signals. The following signals at the Buzzards Bay Railroad Bridge will be given strict attention.
(1) The vertical lift span on the railroad bridge is normally kept in the raised (open) position except when it is lowered for the passage of trains, or for maintenance purposes. Immediately preceding the lowering of the span, the operator will sound two long blasts of an air horn. Immediately preceding the raising of the span, the operator will sound one long blast of an air horn. When a vessel or craft of any type is approaching the bridge with the span in the down (closed) position and the span cannot be raised immediately, the operator of the bridge will so indicate by sounding danger signals of four short blasts in quick succession.
(2) When the lift span is in the down (closed) position in foggy weather or when visibility is obscured by vapor, there will be four short blasts sounded from the bridge every two minutes.
(j) Speed. All vessels are directed to pass mooring and boat basin facilities, the state pier, and all floating plant engaged in maintenance operations of the waterway at a minimum speed consistent with safe navigation. In order to coordinate scheduled rail traffic with the passage of vessels, to minimize erosion of the canal banks and dikes from excessive wave wash and suction, and for the safety of vessels using the canal, the following speed regulations must be observed by vessels of all types, including pleasure craft. The minimum running time for the land cut between the East Mooring Basin (Station 35) and the Administration Office in Buzzards Bay (Station 388) is prescribed as follows:
(k) Management of vessels. (1) Vessels within the limits of the canal shall comply with applicable navigation rules.
(2) Vessels within the limits of the canal shall comply with the applicable requirements for the use of pilots established by the Coast Guard, including but not limited to those contained in 46 CFR 157.20-40. Vessels will not be granted clearance to enter the canal until the marine traffic controller has been notified of the name of the pilot who will be handling the vessel.
(3) The master of a vessel will be responsible for notifying the marine traffic controller as soon as an emergency situation appears to be developing. When in the opinion of the marine traffic controller an emergency exists, he/she can require the master to accept the assistance of a helper vessel. Whether or not assistance is provided by a government vessel or by a private firm under contract to the government, the government reserves the right to seek compensation from the vessel owners for all costs incurred.
(4) Right-of-Way: All vessels proceeding with the current shall have the right-of-way over those proceeding against the current. All craft up to 65 feet in length shall be operated so as not to interfere with the navigation of vessels of greater length.
(5) Passing of vessels: The passing of one vessel by another when proceeding in the same direction is prohibited except when a leading low powered ship is unable to make sufficient headway. However, extreme caution must be observed to avoid collision, and consideration must be given to the size of the ship to be overtaken, velocity of current and wind, and atmospheric conditions. Masters of vessels involved shall inform the marine traffic controller on duty of developing situations to facilitate coordination of vessel movement. Meeting or passing of vessels at the easterly end of the canal between Station Minus 40 and Station 60 will not be permitted, except in cases of extreme emergency, in order to allow vessels to utilize the center line range to minimize the effects of hazardous eddies and currents. Due to bank suction and tidal set, meeting and passing of vessels at the following locations will be avoided:
(i) Sagamore Bridge.
(ii) Bourne Bridge.
(iii) Railroad Bridge.
(iv) Mass Maritime Academy.
(6) Unnecessary delay in canal: Vessels and other type crafts must not obstruct navigation by unnecessarily idling at low speed when entering or passing through the canal.
(7) Stopping in the waterway: Anchoring in the Cape Cod Canal Channel is prohibited except in emergencies. For the safety of canal operations it is mandatory that the masters of all vessels anchoring in or adjacent to the canal channel (Cape Cod Bay to Cleveland Ledge Light) for any reason, immediately notify the marine traffic controller.
(8) Utilization of mooring and boat basins and the Sandwich Bulkhead: Vessels mooring or anchoring in the mooring or boat basins at the Sandwich bulkhead must do so in a manner not to obstruct or impede vessel movements to and from facilities. These facilities are of limited capacity and permission to occupy them for periods exceeding 24 hours must be obtained in advance from the marine traffic controller. Mooring in the West Boat Basin at Buzzards Bay, near the railroad bridge, is not permitted except in an emergency. Fishing boats, yachts, cabin cruisers and other craft utilizing the East Boat Basin on the south side of the canal at Sandwich, Massachusetts are not permitted to tie up at the Corps of Engineers landing float or anchor in a manner to prevent canal floating plant from having ready access to the float. All vessels or barges left unattended must be securely tied with adequate lines or cables. The United States assumes no liability for damages which may be sustained by any craft using the bulkhead at Sandwich or the canal mooring or boat basin facilities. Vessels shall not be left unattended along the face of the government bulkhead. A responsible person with authority to authorize and/or accomplish vessel movement must remain onboard at all times.
(l) Grounded, wrecked or damaged vessels. In the event a vessel is grounded, or so damaged by accident as to render it likely to become an obstruction and/or hazard to navigation in the waterway, the division engineer or the division engineer’s authorized representative shall supervise and direct all operations that may be necessary to remove the vessel to a safe locality.
(m) [Reserved]
(n) Deposit of refuse. No oil or other allied liquids, ashes, or materials of any kind shall be thrown, pumped or swept into the canal or its approaches from any vessel or craft using the waterway, nor shall any refuse be deposited on canal grounds, marine structures, or facilities.
(o) Trespass to property. Subject to the provisions of paragraph (q) of this section trespass upon the canal property is prohibited.
(p) Bridges over the canal. The government owns, operates and maintains all bridges across the canal which include one railroad bridge and two highway bridges. The division engineer or his/her authorized representative may establish rules and regulations governing the use of these bridges.
(q) Recreational use of canal – (1) Policy. (i) It is the policy of the Secretary of the Army acting through the Chief of Engineers to provide the public with safe and healthful recreational opportunities within all water resource development projects administered by the Chief of Engineers, including the canal and government lands part thereof. Any recreational use of the canal and those lands shall be at the users own risk.
(ii) All water resource development projects open for recreational use shall be available to the public without regard to sex, race, creed, color or national origin. No lessee, licensee, or concessionaire providing a service to the public shall discriminate against any person or persons because of sex, race, creed, color or national origin in the conduct of operations under the lease, license or concession contract.
(2) Motor vehicles. Operation of motor vehicles, motorcycles, minibikes, mopeds, motorbikes, snowmobiles, and all types of off-road vehicles is prohibited on government lands and service roads except in areas specifically designated for such operation.
(3) Swimming. Swimming, skin diving, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the canal between the east entrance in Cape Cod Bay and the west entrance at Cleveland Ledge Light are prohibited. Diving operations may be authorized by the Engineer-In-Charge in conjunction with operation and maintenance of the canal.
(4) Camping. Overnight tenting or camping on government land is prohibited except in areas designated by the division engineer. Bourne Scenic Park and Scusset Beach State Reservation are designated camping areas. Persons asleep during hours of darkness in or out of vehicles shall be considered as campers.
(5) Fishing. Persons may fish with rod and line from the banks of the canal on Federally owned property except areas designated by the division engineer. Fishing and lobstering by boat in the Cape Cod Canal between the east entrance in Cape Cod Bay and the west entrance at Cleveland Ledge Light are prohibited. Fishing by boat is permitted in the area west of the State Pier in Buzzards Bay, provided that all craft stay out of the channel defined by U.S. Coast Guard buoys and beacons. Fish and game laws of the United States and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will be enforced.
(6) Hunting. Hunting is permitted in accordance with game laws of the United States and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
(7) Fires. No open fires will be allowed at any time except by special permission and then shall be continuously overseen and in compliance with state or town laws.
(8) Control of animals and pets. (i) No person shall bring or have horses in camping, picnic, swimming beaches or developed recreation areas.
(ii) No person shall bring dogs (except seeing eye dogs), cats, or other pets into developed recreation areas unless penned, caged, or on a leash no longer than six feet or otherwise under physical restrictive controls at all time.
(9) Restrictions. (i) The division engineer may establish a reasonable schedule of visiting hours for all or portions of the project area and close or restrict the public use of all or any portion of the project by the posting of appropriate signs indicating the extent and scope of closure. All persons shall observe such posted restrictions.
(ii) The operation or use of any audio or other noise producing device including, but not limited to, communications media and vehicles in such a manner as to unreasonably annoy, endanger persons or affect vessel traffic through the canal is prohibited.
(10) Explosives, firearms, other weapons and fireworks. (i) The possession of loaded firearms, ammunition, projectile firing devices, bows and arrows, crossbows, and explosives of any kind is prohibited unless in the possession of a law enforcement officer or Government employee on official duty or used for hunting during the hunting season as permitted under paragraph (q)(6) of this section, or unless written permission has been received from the division engineer.
(ii) The possession or use of fireworks is prohibited unless written permission has been received from the division engineer.
(11) Public property. Destruction, injury, defacement or removal of public property including natural formations, historical and archeological features and vegetative growth is prohibited without written permission of the division engineer.
(12) Abandonment of personal property. (i) Abandonment of personal property is prohibited. Personal property shall not be left unattended upon the lands or waters of the project except in accordance with this regulation. After a period of 24 hours, abandoned or unattended personal property shall be impounded and stored at a storage point designated by the division engineer. The division engineer shall assess a reasonable impoundment fee, which shall be paid before the impounded property is returned to its owners.
(ii) The division engineer shall, by public or private sales or otherwise, dispose of all lost, abandoned, or unclaimed personal property that comes into his/her custody or control. However, efforts should be made to find the owner, the owner’s heirs or next of kin, or legal representatives. If the owner, heirs or next of kin, or legal representative is determined but not found, the property may not be disposed of until the expiration of 120 days after the date when notice, giving the time and place of the intended sale or other disposition, has been sent by certified or registered mail to that person at last known address. When diligent effort to determine the owner, owner’s heirs or next of kin, or legal representative is unsuccessful, the property may be disposed of without delay, except that if it has a fair market value of $25 or more the property generally may not be disposed of until three months after the date it is received at the Cape Cod Canal Administrative Office. The net proceeds from the sale of property shall be placed into the Treasury of the United States as miscellaneous receipts.
(13) Lost and found articles. All abandoned/lost articles shall be deposited by the finder at the Canal Administration office or with Canal ranger. The finder shall leave his/her name, address, and phone number. All lost articles shall be disposed of in accordance with procedures set forth in paragraph (q)(12) of this section.
(14) Advertisement. Advertising by the use of billboards, signs, markers, audio devices or any other means whatever is prohibited unless written permission has been received from the division engineer.
(15) Commercial activities. The engaging in or solicitation of business without the written permission of the division engineer is prohibited.
(16) Unauthorized structures. The construction or placing of any structure of any kind under, upon or over the project lands or water is prohibited unless a permit has been issued by the division engineer. Structures not under permit are subject to summary removal by the division engineer.
(17) Special events. Prior approval must be obtained from the Engineer-In-Charge for special events, recreational programs and group activities. The public shall not be charged any fee by the sponsor of such event unless the division engineer has approved in writing the proposed schedule of fees.
(18) Interference with government employees. Interference with any government employee in the conduct of official duties pertaining to the administration of these regulations is prohibited.
(a) Authority of lockmaster. The lockmaster shall be charged with the immediate control and management of the lock, and of the area set aside as the lock area, including the lock approach channels. He shall see that all laws, rules and regulations for the use of the lock and lock area are duly complied with, to which end he is authorized to give all necessary orders and directions in accordance therewith, both to employees of the Government and to any and every person within the limits of the lock or lock area, whether navigating the lock or not. No one shall cause any movement of any vessel, boat, or other floating thing in the lock or approaches except by or under the direction of the lockmaster or his assistants.
(b) Signals. Steamboats or tows desiring lockage in either direction shall give notice to the lock tenders, when not more than three-fourths mile from the lock, by one long blast of (10 seconds’ duration), followed by one short blast (of three seconds’ duration), or a whistle or horn. When the lock is ready for entrance a green light will be shown from the river wall. An amber light will indicate that the lock is being made ready for entrance. A red light will indicate that the approaching vessel must wait. Whenever local conditions make it advisable the visual signals will be supplemented by sound signals as follows:
(1) One long blast of a horn to indicate that the vessel must wait.
(2) One short blast of a horn to indicate that the lock is being made ready for entrance.
(3) Two short blasts of a horn to indicate permission to enter the lock.
(4) Four short and rapid blasts to attract attention, indicate caution, and signal danger.
(c) Draft of boats. Deep-draft boats must clear the miter sills by at least 3 inches. Boats drawing too much water will not be allowed to lighter cargo in the entrances.
(d) Precedence at the lock. The vessel arriving first at the lock shall be first to lock through; but precedence shall be given to vessels belonging to the United States and to commercial vessels in the order named. Arrival posts or markers may be established ashore above or below the lock. Vessels arriving at or opposite such posts or markers will be considered as having arrived at the lock within the meaning of this paragraph. If the traffic is crowded in both directions; up and down lockages will usually be made alternately, but the lock tender may permit two or more lockages to be made at one time in the same direction when this will not cause unreasonable delay. In case two or more boats or tows are to enter for the same lockage, they shall enter as directed by the lock tender. No boat shall run ahead of another while in the lock. The boat that enters first shall leave first.
(e) Lockage of pleasure boats. The lockage of pleasure boats, house boats or like craft shall be expedited by locking them through with commercial craft (other than barges carrying gasoline or highly hazardous materials) in order to utilize the capacity of the lock to its maximum. Lockage of pleasure craft may be made with commercial craft carrying petroleum products other than gasoline, provided a clear distance of at least 100 feet between such vessels can be maintained in the lock. If, after the arrival of such craft, no separate or combined lockage can be accomplished within a reasonable time, not to exceed the time required for three other lockages, then separate lockage shall be made.
(f) Stations while waiting. Boats waiting their turn to enter the lock must lie at a sufficient distance from the lock and in such a position as to leave sufficient room for the passage of boats leaving the lock.
(g) Unnecessary delay. (1) Boats must not cause delay in entering or leaving the lock. Masters and pilots will be held to a strict accountability in this matter, and those with tows must provide enough men to move barges promptly. Boats failing to enter the lock with reasonable promptness after being signaled will lose their turn.
(2) Tugboats arriving with their tows in a condition which will delay locking shall lose their turn if so ordered by the lock tender. Leaking boats may be excluded until put in shape to be passed through safely.
(h) Mooring. Boats in the lock or waiting in the entrance shall be moored where directed by the lock tender, by bow, stern, and spring lines, to the snubbing posts or line hooks. Tying boats to the lock ladders is strictly prohibited.
(i) Protection of lock gates. Boats will not be permitted to enter or leave the lock until the lock gates are at rest in the gate recesses and the lock tender has directed the boat to start.
(j) Damage to walls, etc. All craft passing through the lock must be free from projections or sharp corners which might scar the walls or injure other parts. Steamboats must be provided with suitable fenders, etc. One man shall be kept at the head of every tow till it has cleared the lock and guide walls, and shall use the fender to prevent scarring the walls.
(k) Handling machinery. None but employees of the United States will be allowed to move any valve, gate, or other machinery belonging to the lock.
(l) Refuse in lock. Throwing ashes, refuse, or other obstruction in the entrances or in the lock, or on the walls thereof, and passing coal from flats or barges to a steamboat while in the lock is prohibited.
(m) [Reserved]
(n) Trespass on U.S. property. Trespass on U.S. property, or willful injury to the banks, masonry, fences, trees, houses, machinery, or other property of the United States at or near the lock is strictly prohibited.
(o) Penalties. In addition to the penalties prescribed by law, boats which fail to comply with the regulations in this section will thereafter be refused lockage until assurances have been received, satisfactory to the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, New York, New York, that the regulations will be complied with.
§ 207.60 Federal Dam, Hudson River, Troy, N.Y.; pool level.
(a) Whenever the elevation of the pool created by the Federal dam at Troy, N.Y., shall fall to a point level with the crest of the main spillway, the elevation of which is + 14.33 feet mean sea level, the operation of the power plant shall cease and further operation thereof shall be suspended until such time as the water level rises to or above + 14.43 feet mean sea level.
(b) Flashboards may be maintained on the section of the spillway of the dam having an elevation of + 14.33 feet mean sea level in order to increase the elevation of this section to an elevation equal to that of the auxiliary spillway, or + 16.33 feet mean sea level: Provided, That the flashboards are so erected as to drop automatically when the pool level rises to an elevation of + 18.5 feet mean sea level, and conform in other respects to the plans attached thereto.
(c) The tide staff to be used in determining the elevation of the pool shall be the ceramic tide staff now located on the westerly face of the east lock wall north of the northerly gates, the zero of which is set 2 feet below mean sea level.
(d) The regulations of the pool level and the maintenance of flashboards shall be subject to the supervision and approval of the District Engineer, New York City.
(a) Applicability. The regulations in this section are applicable to that part of the inland waterway from Delaware River to Chesapeake Bay, Del. and Md., between Reedy Point, Delaware River, and Old Town Point Wharf, Elk River.
(b) Supervision. The District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Philadelphia, Pa., has administrative supervision over the waterway and is charged with the enforcement of these regulations. The District Engineer from time to time will prescribe rules governing the dimensions of vessels which may transit the waterway, and other special conditions and requirements which will govern the movement of vessels using the waterway. The District Engineer’s representative is the Chesapeake City Resident Engineer. The Chesapeake City Resident Engineer through the dispatcher on duty will enforce these regulations and monitor traffic through the canal.
(c) Safe navigation required. Clearance for any vessel to enter or pass through any part of the waterway will be contingent on the vessel’s having adequate personnel, machinery, and operative devices for safe navigation. In the event of question as to the ability of any vessel to navigate the waterway safely, a ruling will be made by the dispatcher. The owner, agent, master, pilot, or other person in charge of the vessel concerned may appeal the dispatcher’s ruling to the District Engineer whose decision shall be final. A clearance by the dispatcher for a vessel’s passage through the waterway shall not relieve the owners, agents, and operators of the vessel of full responsibility for its safe passage.
(d) Radio equipment. Requirements for radio equipment on vessels transiting the waterway are as described in rules governing traffic through the waterway issued by the District Engineer. Vessels not having the mandatory radio equipment will not be permitted to transit the canal.
(e) Anchorage and wharfage facilities. The anchorage basin at Chesapeake City and free wharfage facilities on the west side of the anchorage basin are available for small vessels only. These facilities are of limited capacity, and permission to occupy them for periods exceeding 24 hours must be obtained in advance from the dispatcher at Chesapeake City.
(f) Projections from vessels. No vessel carrying a deck load which overhangs or projects beyond the sides of the vessel will be permitted to enter or pass through the waterway. Vessels carrying rods, poles, or other gear extending above the top of the vessel’s mast will be required to lower such equipment to a level with the top of the mast before entering the waterway.
(g) [Reserved]
(h) Tows – (1) Integrated pusher-type tows. The maximum overall length and extreme breadth of this type of tow which may transit the canal are as described in rules governing traffic through the waterway issued by the District Engineer.
(2) All other types of tows. All ships or tugs engaged in towing vessels not equipped with a rudder, whether light or loaded, shall use two towlines or a bridle on one towline. If the vessel in tow is equipped with a rudder, one towline without a bridle may be used. All towlines must be hauled as short as practicable for safe handling of the tows. No towboat will be permitted to enter the waterway with more than two loaded, or three light barges. Two or more barges or other vessels, not self-propelled, shall be towed abreast and not in tandem, using two towlines unless the towboat is made fast alongside the tow.
(i) [Reserved]
(j) Traffic lights. Traffic lights are located at Reedy Point and Old Town Point Wharf. These traffic lights are described in the rules governing traffic through the waterway issued by the District Engineer.
(k) Drawbridges. Operation of the Penn Central vertical lift bridge across the canal will be in accordance with regulations promulgated by the U.S. Coast Guard, § 117.235a Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, Del., of this chapter.
(l) [Reserved]
(m) Refuse and oil. The depositing of trash, refuse, debris, oil, or other material in the waterway or upon the banks or right-of-way is prohibited. Violators are subject to penalties as prescribed by Federal law.
(n) Damage to waterway property. Damage to the waterway, lands, banks, bridges, jetties, piers, fences, buildings, trees, telephone lines, lighting structures, or any other property of the United States pertaining to the waterway is prohibited.
(o) Fish and game. The fish and game laws of the United States and of the States of Delaware and Maryland, within their respective bounds, will be enforced upon the waters and lands pertaining to the waterway owned by the United States.
(p) Grounded, wrecked, or damaged vessels. In the event a vessel is grounded or wrecked in the waterway or is damaged by accident or successive mechanical breakdown, the owner, agent, or operator shall take prompt action to prevent the vessel from becoming or remaining an obstruction to navigation, and such persons shall also respond to such instructions as may be issued by the District Engineer to prevent the vessel from becoming or remaining a menace to navigation. The lack of reasonable response from owner, agent, or operator may be deemed sufficient cause for the District Engineer to undertake repair or removal of the vessel as he may determine to be in the best interest to the Government.
(q)-(s) [Reserved]
(t) Pilotage. Any pilot who pilots in the canal shall comply with State laws or Coast Guard regulations and must be licensed for this waterway by the U.S. Coast Guard.
(u) Vessels difficult to handle. Vessels which are observed by the pilot or master in charge, to be difficult to handle, or which are known to have handled badly on previous trips, must transit the canal during daylight hours and must have tug assistance. Such vessels must obtain permission from the dispatcher to enter the canal and must be provided with the number of tugs sufficient to afford safe passage. Agents must make their own arrangements for tug assistance. Such eastbound vessels must clear Reedy Point Bridge, and such westbound vessels the Chesapeake City Bridge, before dark.
(a) Description. This section applies to the following:
(1) Waterways. All navigable waters of the United States, natural or artificial, including bays, lakes, sounds, rivers, creeks, intracoastal waterways, as well as canals and channels of all types, which are tributary to or connected by other waterways with the Atlantic Ocean south of Chesapeake Bay or with the Gulf of Mexico east and south of St. Marks, Florida.
(2) Locks. All Government owned or operated locks and hurricane gate chambers and appurtenant structures in any of the waterways described in paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
(3) U.S. property. All river and harbor lands owned by the United States in or along the waterways described in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, including lock sites and all structures thereon, other sites for Government structures and for the accommodation and use of employees of the United States, and rights of way and spoil disposal areas to the extent of Federal interest therein.
(4) Vessels and rafts. The term “vessel” as used in this section includes all floating things moved over these waterways other than rafts.
(b) Authority of District Engineers. The use, administration, and navigation of these waterways, Federal locks and hurricane gate chambers shall be under the direction of the officers of the Corps of Engineers, U.S. Army, detailed in charge of the respective sections, and their authorized assistants. The cities in which the U.S. District Engineers are located are as follows:
U.S. District Engineer, Norfolk, Virginia.
U.S. District Engineer, Wilmington, North Carolina.
U.S. District Engineer, Charleston, South Carolina.
U.S. District Engineer, Savannah, Georgia.
U.S. District Engineer, Jacksonville, Florida.
(c) [Reserved]
(d) Bridges. (For regulations governing the operation of bridges, see §§ 117.1, 117.240 and 117.245 of this title.)
(e) Locks – (1) Authority of lockmasters – (i) Locks staffed with Government personnel. The provisions of this subparagraph apply to all waterways in this Section except for the segment of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway identified in (e)(1)(ii). The lockmaster shall be charged with the immediate control and management of the lock, and of the area set aside as the lock area, including the lock approach channels. He/she shall see that all laws, rules and regulations for the use of the lock and lock area are duly complied with, to which end he/she is authorized to give all necessary orders and directions in accordance therewith, both to employees of the Government and to any and every person within the limits of the lock and lock area, whether navigating the lock or not. No one shall cause any movement of any vessel, boat, or other floating thing in the lock or approaches except by or under the direction of the lockmaster or his/her assistants.
(ii) Locks staffed with contract personnel. The provisions of this subparagraph apply to the segment of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway comprising the Albermarle and Chesapeake Canal and the Dismal Swamp Canal including Great Bridge Lock, Chesapeake, Virginia; Deep Creek Lock, Chesapeake, Virginia; and South Mills Lock, North Carolina. Contract personnel shall give all necessary orders and directions for operation of the locks. No one shall cause any movement of any vessel, boat or other floating thing in the locks or approaches except by or under the direction of the contract lock operator. All duties and responsibilities of the lockmaster set forth in this section shall be performed by the contract lock operator except that the responsibility for enforcing all laws, rules and regulations shall be vested in a government employee designated by the Norfolk District Engineer. The District Engineer will notify waterway users and the general public through appropriate notices and media concerning the location and identity of the designated government employee.
(2) Signals. Vessels desiring lockage in either direction shall give notice to the lockmaster at not more than three-quarters of a mile nor less than one-quarter of a mile from the lock, by two long and two short blasts of a whistle. When the lock is available, a green light, semaphore or flag will be displayed; when not available, a red light, semaphore or flag will be displayed. No vessels or rafts shall approach within 300 feet of any lock entrance unless signalled to do so by the lockmaster.
(3) Precedence at locks. (i) The vessel arriving first at a lock shall be first to lock through; but precedence shall be given to vessels belonging to the United States and to commercial vessels in the order named. Arrival posts or markers may be established ashore above or below the locks. Vessels arriving at or opposite such posts or markers will be considered as having arrived at the locks within the meaning of this paragraph.
(ii) The lockage of pleasure boats, house boats or like craft shall be expedited by locking them through with commercial craft (other than barges carrying petroleum products or highly hazardous materials) in order to utilize the capacity of the lock to its maximum. If, after the arrival of such craft, no separate or combined lockage can be accomplished within a reasonable time not to exceed the time required for three other lockages, then separate lockage shall be made.
(4) Entrance to and exit from locks. No vessel or raft shall enter or leave the locks before being signalled to do so. While waiting their turns, vessels or rafts must not obstruct traffic and must remain at a safe distance from the lock. They shall take position in rear of any vessels or rafts that may precede them, and there arrange the tow for locking in sections if necessary. Masters and pilots of vessels or in charge of rafts shall cause no undue delay in entering or leaving the lock, and will be held to a strict accountability that the approaches are not at any time unnecessarily obstructed by parts of a tow awaiting lockage or already passed through. They shall provide sufficient men to move through the lock promptly without damage to the structures. Vessels or tows that fail to enter the locks with reasonable promptness after being signalled to do so will lose their turn.
(5) Lockage of vessels. (i) Vessels must enter and leave the locks carefully at slow speed, must be provided with suitable lines and fenders, must always use fenders to protect the walls and gates, and when locking at night must be provided with suitable lights and use them as directed.
(ii) Vessels which do not draw at least six inches less than the depth on miter sills or breast walls, or which have projections or sharp corners liable to damage gates or walls, shall not enter a lock or approaches.
(iii) No vessel having chains or lines either hanging over the sides or ends, or dragging on the bottom, for steering or other purposes, will be permitted to pass a lock or dam.
(iv) Power vessels must accompany tows through the locks when so directed by the lockmaster.
(v) No vessel whose cargo projects beyond its sides will be admitted to lockage.
(vi) Vessels in a sinking condition shall not enter a lock or approaches.
(vii) The passing of coal from flats or barges to steamers while in locks is prohibited.
(viii) Where special regulations for safeguarding human life and property are desirable for special situations, the same may be indicated by printed signs, and in such cases such signs will have the same force as other regulations in this section.
(ix) The lockmaster may refuse to lock vessels which, in his judgment, fail to comply with this paragraph.
(6) Lockage of rafts. Rafts shall be locked through in sections as directed by the lockmaster. No raft will be locked that is not constructed in accordance with the requirements stated in paragraph (g) of this section. The party in charge of a raft desiring lockage shall register with the lockmaster immediately upon arriving at the lock and receive instructions for locking.
(7) Number of lockages. Tows or rafts locking in sections will generally be allowed only two consecutive lockages if one or more single vessels are waiting for lockage, but may be allowed more in special cases. If tows or rafts are waiting above and below a lock for lockage, sections will be locked both ways alternately whenever practicable. When there are two or more tows or rafts awaiting lockage in the same direction, no part of one shall pass the lock until the whole of the one preceding it shall have passed.
(8) Mooring. (i) Vessels and rafts when in the lock shall be moored where directed by the lockmaster by bow, stern and spring lines to the snubbing posts or hooks provided for that purpose, and lines shall not be let go until signal is given for vessel or raft to leave. Tying boats to the lock ladders is prohibited.
(ii) The mooring of vessels or rafts near the approaches to locks except while waiting for lockage, or at other places in the pools where such mooring interferes with general navigation of the waterway is prohibited.
(9) Maneuvering locks. The lock gates, valves, and accessories will be moved only under the direction of the lockmaster; but if required, all vessels and rafts using the locks must furnish ample help on the lock walls for handling lines and maneuvering the various parts of the lock under the direction of the lockmaster.
(f) [Reserved]
(g) Rafts, logging. (1) Rafts will be permitted to navigate a waterway only if properly and securely assembled. The passage of “bag” or “sack” rafts, “dog” rafts, or of loose logs over any portion of a waterway, is prohibited. Each section of a raft will be secured within itself in such a manner as to prevent the sinking of any log, and so fastened or tied with chains or wire rope that it cannot be separated or bag out so as to materially change its shape. All dogs, chains and other means used in assembling rafts shall be in good condition and of ample size and strength to accomplish their purposes.
(2) No section of a raft will be permitted to be towed over any portion of a waterway unless the logs float sufficiently high in the water to make it evident that the section will not sink en route.
(3) Frequent inspections will be made by the person in charge of each raft to insure that all fastenings remain secure, and when any one is found to have loosened, it shall be repaired at once. Should any log or section be lost from a raft, the fact must be promptly reported to the District Engineer, giving as definitely as possible the exact point at which the loss occurred. In all cases the owner of the lost log or section will take steps immediately to remove the same from the waterway.
(4) The length and width of rafts shall not exceed such maximum dimensions as may be prescribed by the District Engineer.
(5) All rafts shall carry sufficient men to enable them to be managed properly, and to keep them from being an obstruction to other craft using the waterway. To permit safe passage in a narrow channel rafts will, if necessary, stop and tie up alongside the bank. Care must be exercised both in towing and mooring rafts to avoid the possibility of damage to aids to navigation maintained by the United States or under its authorization.
(6) When rafts are left for any reason with no one in attendance, they must be securely tied at each end and at as many intermediate points as may be necessary to keep the timbers from bagging into the stream, and must be moored so as to conform to the shape of the bank. Rafts moored to the bank shall have lights at 500-foot intervals along their entire length. Rafts must not be moored at prominent projections of the bank, or at critical sections.
(7) Logs may be stored in certain tributary streams provided a clear channel at least one-half the width of the channel be left clear for navigation along the tributary. Such storage spaces must be protected by booms and, if necessary to maintain an open channel, piling should also be used. Authority for placing these booms and piling must be obtained by written permit from the District Engineer.
(8) The building, assembling, or breaking up of a raft in a waterway will be permitted only upon special authority obtained from the District Engineer, and under such conditions as he may prescribe.
(h) Dumping of refuse or oil in waterway, obstructions. Attention is invited to the provisions of sections 13 and 20 of the River and Harbor Act of March 3, 1899 (30 Stat. 1152, 1154; 33 U. S. C. 407, 415), and of sections 2, 3, and 4 of the Oil Pollution Act of June 7, 1924 (43 Stat. 604, 605; 33 U.S.C. 432-434), which prohibit the depositing of any refuse matter in these waterways or along their banks where liable to be washed into the waters; authorize the immediate removal or destruction of any sunken vessel, craft, raft, or other similar obstruction, which stops or endangers navigation; and prohibit the discharge of oil from vessels into the coastal navigable waters of the United States.
(i) Damage. Masters and owners of vessels using the waterways are responsible for any damage caused by their operations to canal revetments, lock piers and walls, bridges, hurricane gate chambers, spillways, or approaches thereto, or other Government structures, and for displacing or damaging of buoys, stakes, spars, range lights or other aids to navigation. Should any part of a revetment, lock, bridge, hurricane gate chamber, spillway or approach thereto, be damaged, they shall report the fact, and furnish a clear statement of how the damage occurred, to the nearest Government lockmaster or bridge tender, and by mail to the District Engineer, U.S. Engineer Office, in local charge of the waterway in which the damage occurred. Should any aid to navigation be damaged, they shall report that fact immediately to the Superintendent of Lighthouses at Norfolk, Virginia, if north of New River Inlet, North Carolina; to the Superintendent of Lighthouses at Charleston, South Carolina, if between New River Inlet, North Carolina, and St. Lucie Inlet, Florida; to the Superintendent of Lighthouses at Key West, Florida, if between St. Lucie Inlet and Suwanee River, Florida; and to the Superintendent of Lighthouses, New Orleans, Louisiana, if between Suwanee River and St. Marks, Florida.
(j) Trespass on property of the United States. Trespass on waterway property or injury to the banks, locks, bridges, piers, fences, trees, houses, shops or any other property of the United States pertaining to the waterway is strictly prohibited. No business, trading or landing of freight or baggage will be allowed on or over Government piers, bridges, or lock walls.
(k) Copies of regulations. Copies of the regulations in this section will be furnished free of charge upon application to the nearest District Engineer.
(a) The owner of or agency controlling the lock shall not be required to operate the navigation lock except from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the period of February 15 through October 15 each year, and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the remaining months of the year. During the above hours and periods the lock shall be opened upon demand for the passage of vessels. The hours of operation are based on local time.
(b) The owner of or agency controlling the lock shall place signs of such size and description as may be designated by the District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Jacksonville, Fla., at each side of the lock indicating the nature of the regulations of this section.
§ 207.170 Federal Dam, Oklawaha River, Moss Bluff, Fla.; pool level.
(a) The level of the pool shall normally be maintained at elevation 56.5 feet above sea level: Provided, That the level of the pool may be raised to not exceeding 58.5 feet above sea level at such times as may be authorized in writing by the District Engineer, Jacksonville, Fla., and subject to such conditions as he may specify.
(b) When, in the opinion of the District Engineer, an emergency exists requiring the lowering of the pool level to an elevation less than 56.5 above sea level either to safeguard the dikes or to increase the discharge from Lake Griffin in times of high water, the discharge past the dam shall be regulated in such manner as he may direct until he shall declare the emergency passed.
(a) The owner of or agency controlling the lock shall not be required to operate the navigation lock except from 7 a.m. to 12 noon, and from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., during the period of February 15 through October 15 each year; and from 8 a.m. to 12 noon, and from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., during the remaining months of each year. During the above hours and periods the lock shall be opened upon demand for the passage of vessels.
(b) The owner of the lock shall place signs, of such size and description as may be designated by the District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Jacksonville, Florida, at each side of this lock indicating the nature of the regulations of this section.
(a) The owner of or agency controlling the lock shall not be required to operate the navigation lock except from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, and from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., during the period of February 15 through October 15 each year; and from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon, and from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., during the remaining months of each year. During the above hours and periods the lock shall be opened upon demand for the passage of vessels.
(b) The owner of the lock shall place signs, of such size and descriptions as may be designated by the District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Jacksonville, Florida, at each side of this lock indicating the nature of the regulations.
(a) The owner of or agency controlling the locks shall be required to open the navigation locks upon demand for passage of vessels during the following hours and periods:
| Locks S-61, S-65, and S-65E | ||
| Monday through Friday | All year | 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. |
| Saturday and Sunday | Mar. 1 through Oct. 31 | 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. |
| Do | Nov. 1 through Feb. 28 | 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. |
| Lock S-65A | ||
| Seven days a week | All year | 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
| Locks S-65B, S-65C, and S-65D | ||
| Monday through Friday | All year | 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
| Saturday and Sunday | Mar. 1 through Oct. 31 | 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. |
| Do | Nov. 1 through Feb. 28 | 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. |
(b) The owner of or agency controlling the locks shall place signs, of such size and description as may be designated by the District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Jacksonville, Florida, at each side of the locks indicating the nature of the regulations of this section.
(a) The owner of or agency controlling the lock shall not be required to operate the navigation lock except from 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily. During the above hours the lock shall be opened upon demand for the passage of vessels.
(b) The owner of the lock shall place signs, of such size and description as may be designated by the District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Jacksonville, Florida at each side of this lock indicating the nature of the regulations of this section.
(a) The owner of or agency controlling the lock shall not be required to operate the navigation lock except from 7 a.m. to 12 noon, and from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., during the period of February 15 through October 15 each year; and from 8 a.m. to 12 noon, and from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., during the remaining months of each year. During the above hours and periods the lock shall be opened upon demand for the passage of vessels.
(b) The owner of or agency controlling the lock shall place signs, of such size and description as may be designated by the District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Jacksonville, Fla., at each side of the lock indicating the nature of the regulations in this section.
(a) The regulations in this section shall apply to:
(1) Waterways. All navigable waters of the U.S. tributary to or connected by other waterways with the Gulf of Mexico between St. Marks, Fla., and the Rio Grande, Tex. (both inclusive), and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway; except the Mississippi River, its tributaries, South and Southwest Passes, and the Atchafalaya River above its junction with the Morgan City-Port Allen Route.
(2) Locks and floodgates. All locks, floodgates, and appurtenant structures in the waterways described in paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
(3) Bridges, wharves, and other structures. All bridges, wharves, and other structures in or over these waterways.
(4) Vessels. The term “vessels” as used in this section includes all floating craft other than rafts.
(5) Rafts. The term “raft” as used in this section includes any and all types of assemblages of floating logs or timber fastened together for support or conveyance.
(b) Authority of District Engineers. The use, administration, and navigation of the waterways and structures to which this section applies shall be under the direction of the officers of the Corps of Engineers, U.S. Army, in charge of the respective districts, and their authorized assistants. The location of these Engineer Districts, and the limits of their jurisdiction, are as follows:
(1) U.S. District Engineer, Mobile, Ala. The St. Marks River, Fla., to the Pearl River, Mississippi and Louisiana; and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway from Apalachee Bay, Fla., to mile 36.4 east of Harvey Lock.
(2) U.S. District Engineer, Vicksburg, Miss. The Pearl River and its tributaries, Mississippi and Louisiana.
(3) U.S. District Engineer, New Orleans, La. From Pearl River, Mississippi and Louisiana, to Sabine River, Louisiana and Texas; and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway from mile 36.4 east of Harvey Lock, to mile 266 west of Harvey Lock.
(4) U.S. District Engineer, Galveston, Tex. The Sabine River, Louisiana and Texas, to the Rio Grande, Tex.; and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway from mile 266 west of Harvey Lock, to Brownsville, Tex.
(c) [Reserved]
(d) Locks and floodgates. (1) The term “lock” as used in this section shall include locks, floodgates, and appurtenant structures, and the area designated as the lock area including the lock approach channels.
(2) Authority of lockmasters. The term “lockmaster” as used in this section means the official in charge of operating a lock or floodgate. The lockmaster is responsible for the immediate management and control of the lock and lock area and for the enforcement of all laws, rules, and regulations for the use of the lock. He is authorized to give all necessary and appropriate orders and instructions to every person in the lock area, whether navigating the lock or not; and no one shall cause any movement of any vessel within the lock area unless instructed to do so by the lockmaster or his duly authorized assistants. The lockmaster may refuse passage through the lock to any vessel which, in his judgment, fails to comply with the regulations of this section.
(3) Sound signals. Vessels desiring passage through a lock shall notify the lockmaster by three long and distinct blasts of a horn, whistle, or calls through a megaphone, when within a reasonable distance from the lock. When the lock is ready for entrance, the lockmaster shall reply with three long blasts of a horn, whistle, or calls through a megaphone. When the lock is not ready for entrance, the lockmaster shall reply by four or more short, distinct blasts of a horn, whistle, or calls through a megaphone (danger signal). Permission to leave the lock shall be indicated by the lockmaster by one long blast.
(4) Visual signals. Signal lights and discs shall be displayed at all locks as follows:
(i) From sunset to sunrise. One green light shall indicate the lock is open to approaching navigation; one red light shall indicate the lock is closed to approaching navigation.
(ii) From sunrise to sunset. Large discs, identical in color and number to the light signals prescribed in paragraph (d)(4)(i) of this section will be displayed from a mast on or near the lock wall.
(5) Radiophone. Locks will monitor continuously VHF – Channel 14 (“Safety and Calling” Channel) and/or AM-2738 kHz for initial communication with vessels. Upon arrival at a lock, a vessel equipped with radio-phone will immediately advise the lock by radio of its arrival so that the vessel may be placed on proper turn. Information transmitted or received in these communications shall in no way affect the requirements for use of sound signals or display of visual signals, as provided in paragraphs (d) (3) and (4) of this section.
(6) Precedence at locks. The order of precedence for locking is:
(i) U.S. Government vessels, passenger vessels, commercial vessels, rafts, and pleasure craft.
(ii) The vessel arriving first at a lock will be locked through first. When vessels approach simultaneously from opposite directions, the vessel approaching at the same elevation as the water in the lock chamber will be locked through first. In order to achieve the most efficient utilization of the lock, the lockmaster is authorized to depart from the normal order of locking precedence, stated in paragraph (d)(6)(i) of this section, as in his judgment is warranted.
(iii) The lockage of pleasure boats, houseboats, or like craft may be expedited by locking them through with commercial craft (other than vessels carrying dangerous cargoes, as described in 46 CFR part 146). If, after the arrival of such craft, no combined lockage can be made within reasonable time, not to exceed three other lockages, then separate lockage shall be made.
(7) Entrance to and exits from locks. No vessel or tow shall enter or exit from a lock before being signaled to do so. While awaiting turn, vessels or tows must not obstruct navigation and must remain at a safe distance from the lock, taking position to the rear of any vessel or tows that precede them; and rearranging the tow for locking in sections, if necessary. Masters and pilots of vessels or tows shall enter or exit from a lock with reasonable promptness after receiving the proper signal. Appropriate action will be taken to insure that the lock approaches are not obstructed by sections of a tow either awaiting lockage or already locked through. Masters of vessels shall provide sufficient men to assist in the locking operation when deemed necessary by the lockmaster. Care shall be taken to insure prompt and safe passage of the vessel without damage to the structure.
(8) Lockage and passage of vessels. Vessels or tows shall enter and exit from locks under sufficient control to prevent damage to the lock, gates, guide walls, fenders, or other parts of the structure. Vessels shall be equipped with and use suitable fenders and adequate lines to protect the lock and to insure safe mooring during the locking operation. Vessels shall not meet or pass anywhere between the gate walls or fender system or in the approaches to locks.
(9) Vessels prohibited from locks. The following vessels shall not be permitted to enter locks or approach channels:
(i) Vessels in a sinking condition.
(ii) Vessels leaking or spilling cargo.
(iii) Vessels not having a draft of at least three (3) inches less than the depth over the sills or breast walls.
(iv) Vessels having projection or cargo loaded in such a manner that is liable to damage the structure.
(v) Vessels having chains, links, or drags either hanging over the sides or ends or dragging on the bottom for steering or other purposes.
(vi) Vessels containing flammable or dangerous cargo must have the hatch covers in place and securely fastened.
(10) Number of lockages. Tows locking in sections will generally be allowed only two consecutive lockages if other vessels are waiting for lockage unless otherwise decided by the lockmaster. If other tows are waiting above and below a lock, lockages will be made both ways alternately whenever practicable.
(11) Mooring in locks. (i) When in a lock, vessels and tows shall be moored where directed by the lockmaster by bow, stern, and spring lines to the snubbing posts or hooks provided for that purpose, and lines shall not be let go until the signal is given for the vessel to exit. Tying to the lock ladders is prohibited.
(ii) Mooring near the approaches to locks is prohibited except when the vessels or tows are awaiting lockage.
(12) Lock operating personnel. Vessels and tows using the locks may be required to furnish personnel to assist in locking through; however, the operation of the structure is the responsibility of the lockmaster, and personnel assisting in the lockage of the vessels and tows will follow the direction of the appropriate official on duty at the lock. No gates, valves or other accessories or controls will be operated unless under his direction.
(13) [Reserved]
(14) Lockage of rafts. Rafts shall be locked through as directed by the lockmaster. No raft will be locked that is not constructed in accordance with the requirements stated in paragraph (f) of this section. The person in charge of a raft desiring lockage shall register with the lockmaster immediately upon arriving at the lock and receive instructions for locking.
(e) Waterways. (1)-(5)(i) [Reserved]
(ii) Algiers Canal between the Mississippi River and Bayou Barataria, La., and on Harvey Canal, Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, mile 0 to mile 6 WHL, tows 74 feet in width will be allowed. Tows in excess of 55 feet wide desiring to move over Algiers Canal or Harvey Canal will obtain clearance from the lockmaster at Algiers Lock or Harvey Lock, respectively, before entering the canal. Overwidth tows will report clearing Algiers or Harvey Canal to the respective lockmaster and will rearrange tows to conform to prescribed dimensions immediately upon leaving the canal. The lockmaster will withhold permission for additional tows over 55 feet wide until all previously authorized tows moving in the opposite direction have cleared the waterway.
(iii)-(vi) [Reserved]
(vii) Vessels or tows shall not navigate through a drawbridge until the movable span is fully opened.
(6) Projections from vessels. Vessels or tows carrying a deck load which overhangs or projects over the side, or whose rigging projects over the side, so as to endanger passing vessels, wharves, or other property, shall not enter or pass through any of the narrow parts of the waterway without prior approval of the District Engineer.
(7) Meeting and passing. Passing vessels shall give the proper signals and pass in accordance with the Federal Rules of the Road. At certain intersections where strong currents may be encountered, sailing directions may be issued through navigation bulletins or signs posted on each side of the intersection.
(f) Rafts. The navigation regulations in this paragraph shall apply fully to the movement of rafts.
(1) Rafts will be permitted to navigate a waterway only if properly and securely assembled. Each raft shall be so secured as to prevent the loss or sinking of logs.
(2) All rafts shall carry sufficient men to enable them to be managed properly. It will be the responsibility of the owner to remove logs from the waterway that have broken loose from the raft.
(3) Building, assembling, or breaking up of a raft within a waterway may be permitted; however, the work must be done in an area that will not restrict the use of the waterway by other users. The work area must be cleared of loose logs so that they will not enter the waterway and become a hazard to navigation.
(g) Damage. Should any damage be done to a revetment, lock, floodgates, bridge, or other federally owned or operated structure, the master of the vessel shall report the accident to the nearest lockmaster or bridgetender as soon as possible after the accident. Damage to aids to navigation and to nonfederally owned bridges must be reported to the Commander, Eighth Coast Guard District, New Orleans, La.
(h) Marine accidents. Masters, mates, pilots, owners, or other persons using the waterways covered by this section shall report to the District Engineer at the earliest possible date any accident on the waterway which causes any vessel to become an obstruction to navigation. The information to be furnished the District Engineer shall include the name of the vessel, its location, and the name and address of the owner. The owner of a sunken vessel shall properly mark the vessel as soon as practicable after sinking.
(i) Trespass on U.S. property. (1) Trespass on or injury to waterway property of the United States is prohibited. No business, trading, or landing of freight, will be allowed on Government property without permission of the District Engineer.
(2) The District Engineer may establish policy pertaining to mooring, exchanging crews, loading and unloading supplies, and making emergency repairs in the vicinity of locks so long as navigation is not impeded thereby.
(j) Liability. The regulations of this section will not affect the liability of the owners and operators of vessels for any damage caused by their operations to the waterway or to the structures therein.
(a) Between March 15 and September 15 each year, pleasure boats, houseboats, and other craft not employed for commercial purposes, will be locked through only at 6:00 and 11:45 a.m., and 6:30 p.m., except in cases of emergency; but whenever a lockage is made for a commercial boat, other craft may likewise pass through if there is room in the lock. At all other times lockages shall be made in accordance with § 207.180.
(b) The lock tender or one in charge of the lock shall be the judge as to whether the boat presenting itself for lockage is a commercial or pleasure boat.
(a) Application. The regulations in this section shall apply to the operation of the Brazos River Floodgates and the Colorado River Locks at Mile 400.8 and Mile 441.5, respectively, west of Harvey Lock, La., on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, and navigation of the tributary Colorado River Channel in the vicinity of said locks.
(b) Definitions. The term current means the velocity of flow of water in the river. It is expressed in statute miles per hour. The term “head differential” means the difference measured in feet between the water level in the river and that in the waterway when the floodgates or lock gates are closed. The term “Lockmaster” means the official in charge of the floodgates or locks.
(c) Operation of floodgates and locks – (1) Unlimited passage. The floodgates and locks shall be opened for the passage of single vessels and towboats with single or multiple barges when the current in the river is less than 2 miles per hour and the head differential is less than 0.7 foot. When the head differential is less than 0.7, the Colorado River locks shall normally be operated as floodgates, using only the riverside gates of each lock.
(2) Limited passage. When the current in either river exceeds 2 miles per hour or the head differential at the Brazos River floodgates is between the limits of 0.7 foot and 1.8 feet, both inclusive, or the head differential at the Colorado River locks is 0.7 foot or greater, passage shall be afforded only for single vessels or towboats with single loaded barges or two empty barges. When two barges are rigidly assembled abreast of each other and the combined width of both together is 55 feet or less, they shall be considered as one barge. Each section of an integrated barge shall be considered as one barge, except when it is necessary to attach a rake section to a single box section to facilitate passage, the two sections shall be considered as one barge. It shall be the responsibility of the master, pilot or other person in charge of a vessel to determine whether a safe passage can be effected, give due consideration to the vessel’s power and maneuverability, and prevailing current velocity, head differential, weather and visibility. If conditions are not favorable, passage shall be delayed until conditions improve and a safe crossing is assured.
(3) Gate closures. The Brazos River Floodgates shall be closed to navigation when the head differential exceeds 1.8 feet. The Colorado River Locks shall be closed to navigation when the current in the river exceeds a critical velocity as determined by the District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Galveston, Tex. The Brazos River Floodgates or the Colorado River Locks shall be closed to navigation when in the opinion of said District Engineer it is required for the protection of life and property, or it is to the advantage of the Government to permit uninterrupted emergency or maintenance operations, including dredging.
(4) Mooring facilities. Mooring facilities located on both banks of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway on the approaches to the floodgates and locks are for the mooring of vessels when the floodgates or locks are closed to navigation or tows are limited to single barges. Vessels awaiting passage shall be moored parallel to the bank and as close to the bank as possible. Barges shall be moored fore and aft with two lines, each to a separate mooring facility. Beaching of vessels in lieu of mooring them is prohibited. The mooring facilities are numbered and vessels making fast to them shall notify the Lockmaster giving the number of each facility being used.
(5) [Reserved]
(6) Communication – (i) Radio. The floodgates and locks are equipped with short wave radio equipment transmitting and receiving on VHF – FM Channels 12, 13, 14 and 16. Call letters for the floodgates are WUI 411 and for the locks are WUI 412.
(ii) Telephone. The floodgates and locks are equipped with telephone facilities. The floodgates may be reached by phoning Freeport, Tx, 713-233-1251; the locks may be reached by phoning Matagorda, Tx, 713-863-7842.
(7) Arrival posts. Arrival posts 10 feet high and 10 inches in diameter have been established on the approaches to the locks and floodgates. They are painted with alternate horizontal bands of red and white 3 inches wide. Arrival at the floodgates or locks shall be determined as provided in paragraph (d)(4) of § 207.180.
(d) Navigation of the Colorado River Channel – (1) Traffic signals. (i) Light and sound signals directed both upstream and downstream on the Colorado River are mounted on top of a galvanized skeleton steel tower 85 feet high located on the northeast point of land at the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway crossing of the river. They will be operated from the control house of the East Lock of the Colorado River Locks to direct the interchange of traffic in the Colorado River and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway.
(ii) Vessels navigating the Colorado River and desiring passage either upstream or downstream through the crossing, or into the crossing and through a lock into the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, shall give notice to the Lockmaster by two long and distinct blasts of a whistle or horn when within a distance of not more than one-half mile nor less than one-fourth mile from the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway crossing. When the locks and the crossing are clear of vessels, the Lockmaster shall reply by two long and distinct blasts of a whistle or horn and display a green light from the signal tower indicating that the vessel in the river may proceed across the crossing or into the main stem of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway either eastbound or westbound. When there are vessels in the river crossing or in the locks, the Lockmaster shall reply by four or more short blasts of a whistle or horn (danger signal) and display a red light from the signal tower indicating the vessel in the river shall wait at least a quarter of a mile from the crossing for clearance. When the locks and crossing are clear of vessels, the lockmaster shall indicate to the waiting vessel by two long and distinct blasts of a whistle or horn and display of a green light from the signal tower indicating that the vessel may proceed across the crossing or into the main stem of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway either eastbound or westbound. During periods when the red light may be obscured by fog, mist, or rain, an audible signal consisting of a long blast followed by a short blast of a whistle or horn, repeated every 30 seconds, shall be sounded from the signal tower as an adjunct to the red light.
(2) Signs. Large signs with silver reflective background and stop sign red letters are erected one-fourth mile upstream and downstream from the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway on the Colorado River. The legend states “DO NOT PROCEED BEYOND THIS POINT WHEN SIGNAL TOWER LIGHT IS RED.” These signs must be obeyed.
The foregoing regulations are supplementary to the regulations in § 207.180.
(a) Mississippi River bank protection works provided by United States. Except in case of great emergency, no vessel or craft shall anchor over revetted banks of the river, and no floating plant other than launches and similar small craft shall land against banks protected by revetment except at regular commercial landings. In all cases, every precaution to avoid damage to the revetment works shall be exercised. The construction of log rafts along mattressed or paved banks or the tying up and landing of log rafts against such banks shall be performed in such a manner as to cause no damage to the mattress work or bank paving. Generally, mattress work extends out into the river 600 feet from the low water line. Information as to the location of revetted areas may be obtained from, and will be published from time to time by, the District Engineers, Corps of Engineers, New Orleans, Louisiana, Vicksburg, Mississippi, and Memphis, Tennessee, and the President, Mississippi River Commission, Vicksburg, Mississippi.
(b) Mississippi River below Baton Rouge, La., including South and Southwest Passes – (1) Supervision. The use, administration, and navigation of the waterways to which this paragraph applies shall be under the supervision of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, New Orleans, Louisiana.
(2)-(3) [Reserved]
(4) Cable and pipeline crossings. Any cable or pipeline crossing or extending into the waterways shall be marked by large signs with 12-inch black letters on a white background readable from the waterway side, placed on each side of the river near the point where the cable or pipeline enters the water, and at a sufficient height to be readable above any obstructions normally to be expected at the locality such as weeds or moored vessels.
(5) Marine accidents. Masters, mates, pilots, owners, or other persons using the waterway to which this paragraph applies shall notify the District Engineer by the most expeditious means available of all marine accidents, such as fire, collision, sinking, or stranding, where there is possible obstruction of the channel or interference with navigation or where damage to Government property is involved, furnishing a clear statement as to the name, address, and ownership of the vessel or vessels involved, the time and place, and the action taken. In all cases, the owner of the sunken vessel shall take immediate steps properly to mark the wreck.
(a) [Reserved]
(b) Locks – (1) Authority of lockmasters. (i) Locks staffed with Government personnel. The lockmaster shall be charged with the immediate control and management of the lock and of the area set aside as the lock area, including the lock approach channels. He shall insure that all laws, rules, and regulations for the use of the lock and lock area are duly complied with, to which end he is authorized to give all necessary orders and directions in accordance therewith both to employees of the Government and to any and every person within the limits of the lock or lock area, whether navigating the lock or not. No one shall cause any movement of any vessel or other floating thing in the lock or approaches except by or under the direction of the lockmaster or his assistants. For the purpose of the regulations in this section, the “lock area” is considered to extend from the downstream to the upstream arrival posts.
(ii) Locks staffed with contract personnel. Contract lock operators shall give all necessary orders and direction for operation of the locks. No one shall cause any movement of any vessel or other floating object in the locks or approaches except by or under the direction of the contract lock operator. All duties and responsibilities of the lockmasters set forth in this section shall be performed by the contract lock operator except that the responsibility for enforcing all laws, rules and regulations shall be vested in an offsite government employee designated by the Vicksburg District Engineer.
(2) Sound signals. (i) Vessels desiring passage through a lock in either direction shall give notice to the lockmaster by one long and one short distinct blast of a horn or whistle when not less than three-fourths mile from the lock. When carrying dangerous cargo, the signal will be one long and two short blasts of the horn or whistle. When the lock is ready for entrance, the lockmaster shall reply with one long blast of a horn or whistle. When the lock is not ready for entrance, the lockmaster shall reply by four or more short, distinct blasts of a horn or whistle (danger signal). Permission to leave the lock shall be indicated by the lockmaster by one short blast. A distinct blast is defined as a clearly audible blast of any length. A long blast means a blast of from 4 to 6 seconds’ duration. A short blast is of about 1 second’s duration.
(ii) Vessels that are not equipped with a sound signal desiring passage through a lock shall give notice to the lockmaster by one long blast of the horn located at either end of the lock wall. The horn may be activated by pulling the properly marked chain or rope hanging from the horn down to the water surface. One long blast means a blast of from 4 to 6 seconds’ duration.
(3) Visual signals. Signal lights will be displayed outside each lock gate to supplement the sound signals, as follows:
(i) One green light to indicate that the lock is open to approaching navigation.
(ii) One red light to indicate that the lock is not open to approaching navigation. Vessels shall stand clear.
(iii) Navigation over the dam is possible during high water. When this condition exists, a continuous flashing red light, visible upstream and downstream, will be displayed to indicate that traffic will bypass the lock and pass over the dam on the Ouachita and Black Rivers.
(iv) A navigation pass is not provided as part of the Red River Locks and Dams. When water levels rise to within 2 feet of the top of the lock walls, operation of the locks will cease until the water level falls below this level. These stages can reasonably be expected to occur once in 10 years. No vessel, tow, or raft shall attempt to navigate over the lock or other structures at high river stages. United States Coast Guard radiotelephone broadcasts and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers navigation bulletins should be monitored for information on lock operations.
(4) Radiotelephone. Two-way radio equipment is provided at all locks. The “Safety and Calling” channel (Channel 16, frequency of 156.8 mhz), will be monitored at all times for initial communication with vessels. Information transmitted or received in these communications shall in no way affect the requirements for the use of sound signals or display of visual signals as provided in paragraphs (b)(2) and (3) of this section.
(5) Precedence at locks. (i) The vessel arriving first at a lock will be first to lock through. In the case of vessels approaching the lock simultaneously from opposite directions, the vessel approaching at the same elevation as the water in the lock chamber will be locked through first. Precedence shall be given to vessels belonging to the United States, passenger vessels, commercial vessels, rafts, and pleasure craft, in the order named. Arrival posts or markers will be established ashore above and below the locks. Vessels arriving at or opposite such posts or markers will be considered as having arrived at the lock within the meaning of this paragraph (b)(5). The lockmaster may prescribe such departure from the normal order of precedence stated above, as in his judgment, is warranted under prevailing circumstances to achieve best lock utilization.
(ii) The lockage of pleasure boats, houseboats, or like craft may be expedited by locking them through with commercial craft (other than barges carrying dangerous cargoes). If, after the arrival of such craft, no combined lockage can be accomplished within a reasonable time, not to exceed the time required for three other lockages, then separate lockages shall be made. Dangerous cargoes are described in 46 CFR part 146.
(iii) Vessels, tows, or rafts navigating on the Ouachita and Black Rivers with overall dimensions greater than 80 feet wide, 600 feet long, and 9 feet draft, or tows or rafts requiring breaking into two or more sections to pass through the lock may transit the lock at such time as the lockmaster determines that they will neither unduly delay the transit of craft of lesser dimensions, nor endanger the lock structure and appurtenances because of wind, current, or other adverse conditions. These craft are also subject to such special handling requirements as the lockmaster finds necessary at the time of transit.
(iv) The maximum dimensions on the Red River Waterway of a vessel tow attempting to pass through the lock during normal pool stages in a single passage are 80 feet wide, 705 feet long, and 9 feet draft. Tows requiring breaking into two or more sections to pass through the lock may transit the lock at such times as the lockmaster/lock operator determines that they will neither unduly delay the transit of craft of lesser dimensions, nor endanger the lock structure and appurtenances because of wind, current, or other adverse conditions. These craft are also subject to such special handling requirements as the lockmaster/lock operator finds necessary at the time of transit.
(6) Entrance to an exit from locks. No vessel or raft shall enter or leave locks before being signaled to do so. While waiting their turn, vessels or rafts must not obstruct navigation and must remain at a safe distance from locks. Before entering a lock they shall take position in the rear of any vessels or rafts that precede them, and there arrange the tow for locking in sections if necessary. Masters and pilots of vessels or persons in charge of rafts shall cause no undue delay in entering or leaving locks upon receiving the proper signal. They shall take such action as will insure that the approaches are not at any time unnecessarily obstructed by parts of a tow awaiting lockage or already passed through. They shall provide sufficient men to move through locks promptly without damage to the structures. Vessels or tows shall enter locks with reasonable promptness after being signaled to do so.
(7) Lockage and passage of vessels. (i) Vessels shall enter and leave locks under such control as to prevent any damage to the locks, gates, guide walls, guard walls, and fenders. Vessels shall be provided with suitable lines and fenders, shall always use fenders to protect the walls and gates, and when locking at night shall be provided with suitable lights and use them as directed. Fenders on vessels shall be water-soaked or otherwise fire proofed before being utilized in the lock or approaches. Vessels shall not meet or pass each other anywhere between the guide walls or fender system at the approaches to locks.
(ii) Vessels which do not have a draft of at least 2 feet less than the depth over sills, or which have projections liable to damage gates, walls, or fenders, shall not enter the approaches to or pass through locks. Information concerning depth over sills may be obtained from the lockman on duty.
(iii) Vessels having chains, lines, or drags either hanging over the sides or ends or dragging on the bottom for steering or other purposes will not be permitted to pass locks or dams.
(iv) Towing vessels shall accompany all tows or partial tows through locks.
(v) No vessel whose cargo projects beyond its sides will be admitted to lockage.
(vi) Vessels in a sinking condition shall not enter locks or approaches.
(vii) The lockmaster may refuse to lock vessels which in his judgment fail to comply with the regulations in this paragraph.
(viii) This section shall not affect the liability of the owners and operators of boats for any damage caused by their operations to locks or other structures.
(8) Number of lockages. Tows or rafts locking in sections will generally be allowed only two consecutive lockages if individual vessels are waiting for lockage, but may be allowed more in special cases. If tows or rafts are waiting above and below a lock for lockage, sections will be locked both ways alternately whenever practicable. When two or more tows or rafts are waiting lockage in the same direction, no part of one shall pass the lock until the whole of the one preceding it shall have passed.
(9) Mooring. (i) Vessels and rafts when in a lock shall be moored where directed by the lockmaster by bow, stern, and spring lines to the bitts provided for that purpose and lines shall not be let go until the signal is given for the vessel or raft to leave. Tying to the lock ladders is prohibited.
(ii) The mooring of vessels or rafts near the approaches to locks except while waiting for lockage, or at other places in the pools where such mooring interfers with general navigation, is prohibited.
(10) Operating locks. The lock gates, valves, and accessories will be moved only under the direction of the lockmaster; but, if required, all vessels and rafts using the locks shall furnish ample help on the lock walls for handling lines under the direction of the lockmaster.
(c) Trespass on U.S. property. Trespass on lock grounds or other waterway property or injury to the banks, lock entrances, locks, cribs, dams, piers, fences, trees, buildings, or any other property of the United States pertaining to the waterway is strictly prohibited. No landing of freight, passengers, or baggage will be allowed on or over Government piers, lock walls, guide or guard walls, except by permission of the lockmaster. No person except employees of the United States or persons assisting with the locking operations under the direction of the lockmaster will be allowed on the dam, lock walls, guide walls, guard walls, abutments, or appurtenant structures.
(d) Vessels to carry regulations. A copy of the regulations in this section shall be kept at all times on board each vessel regularly navigating the waterways to which the regulations in this section apply. Copies may be obtained free of charge at any of the locks or from the Vicksburg District Engineer, Vicksburg, Mississippi, upon request.
(a) Signals. Vessels navigating the canal will be governed by the Pilot Rules for Western Rivers (rivers emptying into the Gulf of Mexico and their tributaries) prescribed by the U.S. Coast Guard. (See part 95 of this title.)
(b) Rafts. Rafts will be permitted to navigate the canal only if properly and securely assembled. Each section of a raft shall be so secured within itself as to prevent the sinking of any log, and so fastened with chains or wire rope that it cannot be separated or bag out or materially change its shape. All logs, chains, and other means used in assembling rafts shall be in good condition and of ample size and strength to accomplish their purpose. No section of a raft will be permitted to be towed unless the logs float sufficiently high in the water to make it evident that the section will not sink en route. Rafts shall not be of greater dimensions than 50 feet wide by 600 feet long, and if longer than 300 feet they shall be handled by two tugs; and in all cases they must be handled by sufficient tug power to make headway and guide the raft so as to give half the channel to passing vessels.
(c) Mooring. At stages below 20 feet on the Vicksburg Gage, no vessel or raft shall be moored along the west bank of the canal between points Latitude 32°21′16″, Longitude 90°53′05″ and Latitude 32°20′55″, Longitude 90°53′18″, which is approximately 1200 feet above and 1200 feet below the public boat launch (foot of Clay Street) at Vicksburg City Front. No vessel or raft shall be moored along the west bank of the canal at any stage from the mouth of the Yazoo Diversion Canal where it enters into the Mississippi River to Latitude 32°20′21″, Longitude 90°53′44″, which is approximately 1200 feet from the mouth of the canal. No vessel or raft shall be moored along the east bank of the canal at any stage from the mouth of the Yazoo Diversion Canal where it enters into the Mississippi River to Latitude 32°20′12″, Longitude 90°53′41″, which is approximately 750 feet from the mouth of the canal. When tied up, boats, barges, or rafts shall be moored by bow and stern lines parallel to the bank and as close in as practicable. Lines shall be secured at sufficiently close intervals to insure the vessel or raft will not be drawn away from the bank by winds, current, or other passing vessels. No vessel or raft shall be moored along the banks of the canal for a period longer than five (5) calendar days without written permission from the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg District Office, 4155 E. Clay St., Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180-3435.
(d) [Reserved]
(e) Refuse in canal. No person shall roll or throw any stones, ashes, cinders, barrels, logs, log butts, sawdust, shavings, refuse, or any other material into the canal or the approach thereto, or place any such material on the bank or berm so that it is liable to be rolled, thrown, or washed into the canal.
(f) Preservation of works of improvement. Masters and pilots of all craft using the canal shall avoid damaging any revetment, dike, floodwall, or other work of improvement placed in or adjacent to the canal. They shall not disturb any gages or marks set as aids to navigation in the canal or approaches thereto.
(g) Fairway. A clear channel not less than 175 feet wide as established by the District Engineer shall be left open at all times to permit free and unobstructed navigation by all types of vessels.
§ 207.270 Tallahatchie River, Miss., between Batesville and the mouth; logging.
(a) The floating of “sack”, rafts, or of loose timbers, logs, or cribs is prohibited.
(b) Rafts shall be made up of logs parallel with each other, secured, and held closely together by cross sticks, chains, or cables placed across each crib and at the joints between cribs. No raft shall be over 60 feet wide or 800 feet long.
(c) In rafting nonbuoyant timber each crib must contain self-buoyant logs in such proportion of “floaters” to “sinkers” as will safely float the whole; and in assembling such cribs, extra strong connections must be used to prevent the breaking up of a crib or the detachment of individual logs.
(d) No raft shall be moved at river stages less than that corresponding to a reading of 3
(e) A raft in transit must be accompanied by sufficient men, or by power boats of sufficient capacity to properly manage the movement of the raft and to keep it from being an obstruction to other craft navigating the river, or from forming jams at bridges.
(f) Rafts in transit must be so floated, and when not in transit be so tied to the bank, as not to interfere with the passage of boats.
(g) When rafts are left with no one in attendance they must be securely tied at each end and at as many intermediate points as will prevent them from bagging into the stream. When left at night a white light shall be exposed at each end of the raft.
(h) This section shall apply to the portion of the Tallahatchie River, Miss., between Batesville, Panola County, Miss., and the mouth.
(a) Applicability of regulations. These regulations apply to all locks and appurtenant structures, wharves, and other Corps of Engineers structures in the following waterways: The White River between Mississippi River and Arkansas Post Canal, Arkansas; Arkansas Post Canal, Arkansas; Arkansas River between Dam No. 2, Arkansas, and Verdigris River, Oklahoma; Verdigris River between Arkansas River and Catoosa, Oklahoma; and reservoirs on these waterways between Mississippi River, Arkansas, and Catoosa, Oklahoma.
(b) Authority of district engineers. The use, administration, and navigation of the structures to which this section applies shall be under the direction of the officers of the Army Corps of Engineers, detailed in charge of the respective districts, and their authorized assistants. The cities in which these district engineers are located, and the limits of their jurisdictions, are as follows:
(1) District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Little Rock, Arkansas. From Mississippi River, Arkansas, to Arkansas-Oklahoma State line at Fort Smith, Arkansas.
(2) District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Tulsa, Oklahoma. From Arkansas-Oklahoma State line at Fort Smith, Arkansas, to Catoosa, Oklahoma.
(c) Authority of lockmasters. The lockmaster shall be charge with the immediate control and management of the lock and of the area set aside as the lock area. The lockmaster shall ensure that all laws, rules, and regulations for the use of the lock and lock area are duly complied with, to which end he/she is authorized to give all necessary orders and directions both to employees of the Government and to any person within the limits of the lock area, whether navigating the lock or not. No one shall cause any movement of any vessel or other floating thing in the lock area except by or under the direction of the lockmaster. Failure to comply with directions given by the lockmaster pursuant to the regulations in this section may result in refusal of lockage. For the purpose of the regulations in this section, the “lock area” is considered to be between the upstream and downstream arrival points. The district engineer may extend the limits of the lock area consistent with the safe and efficient use of the waterway.
(d) Precedence at locks. (1) Precedence shall be given to vessels owned by the United States, licensed commercial passenger vessels operating on a published schedule or regularly operating in the “for hire” trade, commercial tows, rafts, and pleasure craft, in the order named. Precedence being equal, the first vessel to arrive at a lock will normally be the first to lock through; however, the lockmaster may depart from this procedure to achieve optimum utilization of the lock or in accordance with the order of precedence stated above and in paragraphs (d)(2) and (h) of this section. Arrival points have been established ashore upstream and downstream of the locks. Vessels arriving at these markers or the mooring cells immediately upstream and downstream of the lock will be considered as having arrived at the lock within the meaning of this subparagraph.
(2) Vessels or tows, with overall dimensions greater than 105 feet wide or 595 feet long may transit the lock at such time as the lockmaster determines that they will neither unduly delay the transit of craft of lesser dimensions, nor endanger the lock structure and appurtenances because of wind, current, or other adverse conditions. These craft are also subject to such special handling requirements as the lockmaster deems necessary at the time of transit.
(e) Safety rules for vessels using navigation locks. (1) Leaking vessels may be excluded from the locks.
(2) Smoking, open flames, and activities capable of producing a flammable atmosphere such as painting will not be permitted in the lock chamber.
(3) All deckhands handling lines during locking procedures shall wear a personal flotation device.
(f) Dangerous cargo barges. The following rules are prescribed for all tows containing dangerous cargoes as defined in Title 46, Code of Federal Regulations. These rules are applicable to both loaded barges and empty barges.
(1) All hatches on barges used to transport dangerous cargoes shall be closed before the tow enters the lock area.
(2) Prior to entering the lock area, towboat pilots shall furnish the name of product, the source of shipment, the company which made the shipment, and the consignee. If a towboat is not equipped with a radio or its radio is out of service, pilots shall furnish this information to the lockmaster while the tow is in the lock chamber. The shipping papers required by title 46, Code of Federal Regulations, shall be available for review by the lockmaster. Lockage shall be refused when this information is not furnished to the lockmaster.
(3) Fenders shall be water-soaked or otherwise spark proofed.
(4) Smoking, open flames, chipping, or other spark producing activity are prohibited in the “lock area.”
(5) Simultaneous lockage of other vessels with vessels carrying dangerous cargoes or containing flammable vapors shall normally not be permitted. if significant delays are occurring at a lock, such simultaneous lockages, except with pleasure craft, may be permitted by the lockmaster, when he/she determines such action safe and appropriate, provided:
(i) The first vessel entering or the last vessel exiting shall be secured before the other enters or leaves.
(ii) All masters involved have agreed to the joint use of the lock.
(g) General locking procedures. (1) In case two or more boats or tows are to enter for the same lockage, their order of entry and exit shall be determined by the lockmaster.
(2) Tows entering a lock shall come to a complete stop at a point designated by the district engineer before proceeding to the mooring position.
(3) When entering or exiting locks, tow speeds shall not exceed 200 feet per minute (rate of slow walk) or the rate of travel whereby the tow can be stopped by checking should mechanical difficulties develop. When navigating over Norrell Dam during high water, vessels shall reduce speed to the minimum necessary to maintain steerageway. Pilots should check with the individual lockmasters concerning prevailing conditions. It is also recommended that pilots check their ability to reverse their engines prior to beginning an approach. Towboat engines shall not be turned off in the lock unless authorized by lockmaster.
(4) The sides and ends of all vessels passing through any lock shall be free from protrusions of any kind which might damage the lock structure.
(5) All vessels shall be provided with suitable fenders. When entering and exiting locks, one deckhand, or more if the lockmaster so directs, shall be stationed at the bow and stern of tows. These deckhands shall maintain their stations while tows are moving adjacent to any part of a lock. They shall protect the lock walls by the use of hand-held fenders. In all cases, two deckhands shall be stationed at the bows of tows 100 feet wide or wider when entering locks. They shall remain at their stations until the bows of such tows pass the recessed miter gates.
(6) Masters and pilots must use every precaution to prevent unnecessary delay in entering or leaving locks. Vessels failing to enter locks with reasonable promptness when signaled to do so shall lose their turn. Rearranging or switching of barges in the locks or in approaches is prohibited unless approved or directed by the lockmaster.
(7) No vessel shall enter a lock unless its draft is at least two feet less than the least depth of water over the sills. Information concerning controlling depth over sills can be obtained from the lockmaster at each lock or by inquiry at the office of the district engineer of the district in which the lock is located.
(8) Vessels awaiting their turn to lock shall be positioned so that they will not interfere with vessels leaving the lock. However, to the extent practicable under the prevailing conditions, vessels and tows shall be positioned so as to minimize approach time.
(9) Number of lockages. (i) Tows or rafts locking in sections will generally be allowed only two consecutive lockages if other vessels are waiting lockage, but may be allowed more in special cases. No part of a tow shall pass a lock until the whole of the one preceding it shall have passed. The lockmaster may prescribe a departure from the normal order of precedence to achieve the best lock utilization.
(ii) One deckhand, or more if the lockmaster so directs, shall tend the lines at the bow and stern of each section of a tow that transits a lock or moors to the river walls.
(10) Vessels shall enter and leave locks under such control as to prevent any damage to the walls and gates.
(11) Placing or discharging refuse of any description into the lock, on the lock walls, on the esplanade, or on any other government property is prohibited.
(h) Lockage of pleasure craft. In order to fully utilize the capacity of the lock, lockmasters may expedite the lockage of pleasure craft by locking them through with commercial vessels, except vessels carrying volatile cargoes or other substances likely to emit toxic, flammable, or explosive vapors. If the lockage of pleasure craft cannot be accomplished within the time required for three single lockages, a separate lockage of pleasure craft shall be made. Pleasure craft operators are advised that the locks have a pull chain located at the end of each river wall which signals the lockmaster that lockage is desired.
(i) Locking rafts and floating dredge discharge line. While awaiting lockage, rafts and tows containing floating dredge discharge line shall not obstruct the lock approaches. They shall be properly and securely assembled to assure adequate control while entering and exiting locks. The passage of loose logs through a lock is prohibited. Lockage will be refused to rafts unless the logs float sufficiently high to make it evident that the raft will not sink.
(j) Mooring – (1) At locks. (i) When in the locks, all vessels shall be moored as directed by the lockmaster. Vessels shall be moored with bow and stern lines leading in opposite directions to prevent the vessel from “running” in the lock. All vessels will have one additional line available on the head of the tow for emergency use. The pilot of a vessel shall remain at his station in the pilot house and the deckhands shall stand by the mooring lines during the entire locking procedure. When the vessel is securely moored, the pilot shall not cause movement of the propeller except in an emergency or unless directed by the lockmaster. Tying to lock ladders is strictly prohibited.
(ii) Mooring of any vessel will not be permitted at or between the arrival points without permission of the lockmaster.
(2) Outside of locks. (i) Vessels over 40 feet in length shall not land or anchor against revetted banks without written permission of the district engineer, except in case of emergency. When an emergency landing is necessary, adjacent locks shall be notified. In all cases, every precaution to avoid damage to the revetment works shall be exercised. The construction of log rafts along mattressed or paved banks or the tying up and landing of log rafts against such banks require the permission of the district engineer.
(ii) Government mooring facilities at the junction of main stem and secondary channels are to provide temporary mooring for tows awaiting transfer of barges to or from ports, docks, or fleeting areas located on the secondary channels. These facilities shall not be used for storage of barges or fleeting activities. The maximum permissible time of mooring at the facilities shall be determined by the district engineer.
(k) Locking signals. Vessels must approach the locks with caution and not enter or leave the locks until signaled to do so by the lockmaster.
(1) Signal by radio. Requests for lockage by radio will be the primary signal for vessels equipped with VHF-FM radios operating in the FCC authorized Maritime Band. District engineers will advise all known interested parties of the channels available for use in communicating with the locks. Pilots of commercial tows should contact the locks at least one-half hour before arrival in order that they may be informed of current river and traffic conditions that may affect the safe passage of their tows.
(2) Sound signals. In addition to radio communication, the following sound signals are prescribed for use during lockage. Sound signals given by vessels and locks shall be given by means of a horn. The term prolonged blast means a blast of from four to six second’s duration. The term short blast means a blast of about one second’s duration.
(i) Vessels desiring a single lockage shall give notice to the lockmaster by one prolonged blast of the horn followed by one short blast. If a double lockage is required, vessels shall give one prolonged blast of the horn followed by two short blasts. These signals are not required from pleasure craft not equipped with horns. Locking procedures for pleasure craft are prescribed in paragraph (h).
(ii) When the lock is ready for entrance, the lockmaster shall give one prolonged blast of the horn to signal permission to enter the lock chamber.
(iii) The lockmaster shall give permission to leave the lock chamber by one short blast of the horn.
(iv) Five or more short and rapid blasts of the lock horn will be used as a means of attracting attention, to indicate caution, or to signal danger. This signal will be used to attract the attention of the masters and crews of vessels using the lock or navigating in the lock area and to indicate that something unusual involving danger or requiring special caution is happening or is about to happen. When this signal is given by the lockmaster, the masters and crews of vessels in the vicinity shall immediately become alert to determine the reason for the signal and shall take the necessary steps to cope with the situation.
(3) Visual signals. Signal lights are displayed outside each lock gate to supplement the radio and sound signals. Vessels will be governed as follows:
(i) One flashing green light to indicate that the lock is open to approaching navigation.
(ii) One flashing red light to indicate that the lock is not open to approaching navigation. Vessels shall stand clear.
(iii) Flashing amber and green lights to indicate that one or both lock gates can not be fully recessed or other unusual conditions exist. Vessels can enter the lock with caution.
(iv) In the absence of any of the above visual signals, pilots shall signal for lockage by radio or horn and wait for the lockmaster to acknowledge their signal.
(l) Navigation lights on locks and dams. (1) The following navigation lights will be displayed at all locks except Norrell Lock and Lock No. 2 during hours of darkness and heavy fog.
(i) Three green lights visible through an arc of 360 degrees arranged in a vertical line on the end of the upstream river wall.
(ii) Two green lights visible through an arc of 360 degrees arranged in a vertical line on the end of the downstream river wall.
(iii) A single red light visible through an arc of 360 degrees on the ends of the upstream and downstream land walls.
(2) The following navigation lights will be displayed at Lock No. 2 during hours of darkness and heavy fog. They shall also be displayed at Norrell Lock during hours of darkness and heavy fog except when navigation is passing over the dam.
(i) Three green lights visible through an arc of 360 degrees arranged in a vertical line on the end of the upstream river wall.
(ii) Two green lights visible through an arc of 360 degrees arranged in a vertical line on the end of the downstream river wall.
(iii) A single red light visible through an arc of 360 degrees on the dolphin located furthest upstream in line with the land wall and on the dolphin located furthest downstream in line with the land wall.
(3) The following navigation lights will be displayed at Norrell Lock and Dam during hours of darkness and heavy fog when navigation is passing over the dam. During daylight hours a yellow and black disc will be displayed on each end (upstream and downstream) of the river wall to signal navigation over the dam.
(i) Three red lights visible through an arc of 360 degrees arranged in a vertical line on the end of the upstream river wall.
(ii) Two red lights visible through an arc of 360 degrees arranged in a vertical line on the end of the downstream river wall.
(iii) A single red light visible through an arc of 360 degrees on the dolphin located furthest upstream in line with the land wall and on the dolphin located furthest downstream in line with the land wall.
(iv) A single, flashing blue light visible through an arc of 360 degrees located on the end of the dam opposite the lock.
(m) Restricted areas at locks and dams. All waters immediately above and below each dam, as posted by the respective district engineers, are hereby designated as restricted areas. No vessel or other floating craft shall enter any such restricted area without permission of the lockmaster. The limits of the restricted areas at each dam will be determined by the responsible district engineer and marked by signs installed in conspicuous and appropriate locations.
(n) Trespass on lock and dam property. (1) Trespass on locks or dams or other United States property pertaining to the locks or dams is strictly prohibited except in those areas specifically permitted by the lockmaster. Any person committing a willful injury to any United States property or personnel will be prosecuted.
(2) No fishing will be permitted from the lock or dam structures.
(3) No one but employees of the United States shall move any lock machinery unless directed by the lockmaster. Tampering or meddling with the machinery or other parts of the lock is strictly forbidden.
(o) Repair and construction of navigation structures. To avoid damage to plant and structures connected with the construction or repair of locks and dams, vessels passing structures in the process of construction or repair shall reduce their speed and navigate with special caution while in the vicinity of such work.
(p) Reporting the navigation incidents. In furtherance of maintaining navigation safety the following rules are prescribed for all navigation interests:
(1) Any incident resulting in uncontrolled barges shall immediately be reported to the nearest lock and the appropriate U.S. Coast Guard Office. The report shall include information as to the number of loose barges, their cargo, and the time and location where they broke loose. The lockmaster shall be kept informed of the progress being made in bringing the barges under control so that he/she can initiate whatever actions may be warranted.
(2) Masters, owners, or other persons using the waterways to which the regulations in this section apply shall report to the nearest lockmaster or the district engineer by the most expeditious means available all marine accidents; such as fire, collision, sinking, or grounding, where there is possible obstruction of the channel or interference with navigation; furnishing a clear statement as to the name, address, and ownership of the vessel or vessels involved; the time and place; and the action taken. In all cases, the owner of a sunken vessel shall take immediate steps to mark the wreck properly.
(i) Sunken or sinking barges shall be reported to the nearest lock both downstream and upstream of the location in order that traffic passing those points may be advised of the hazards. The appropriate U.S. Coast Guard Office shall also be notified.
(ii) Whenever it is necessary to report an incident involving uncontrolled, sunken or sinking barges, the cargo in the barges shall be precisely identified.
(iii) The owners or masters of vessels sunk in the navigable waters of the United States shall provide the appropriate district engineer with a copy of the sunken vessel report furnished to the appropriate U.S. Coast Guard Marine Inspection Office.
(q) [Reserved]
(r) Liability for damage. This section shall not affect the liability of the owners and operators of vessels for any damage caused by their operations. Should any Government property be damaged as the result of the operation of a vessel, the master of the vessel shall report the accident to the nearest lockmaster or the appropriate district engineer.
(s) Persistent violation of regulations. If the owner or operator of any vessel persistently violates the regulations of this section or any orders given in pursuance thereof, after due notice of same, lockage may be refused by the district engineer. The lockmaster may refuse lockage if deemed necessary to protect government property in the vicinity of the lock.
(t) Vessels to carry regulations. A copy of these regulations shall be kept at all times on board each commercial vessel engaged in navigating the waterway. Copies may be obtained from any lock or district engineer’s office on request. Masters of such vessels are also required to have on board current copies of the navigation charts and applicable Notices to Navigation Interest.
(a) Authority of lockmasters – (1) Locks staffed with Government personnel. The provisions of this paragraph apply to all waterways in this section except for Cordell Hull Lock located at Mile 313.5 on the Cumberland River in Tennessee. The lockmaster shall be charged with the immediate control and management of the lock, and of the area set aside as the lock area, including the lock approach channels. He/she shall see that all laws, rules, and regulations for the use of the lock and lock area are duly complied with, to which end he/she is authorized to give all necessary orders and directions in accordance therewith, both to employees of the government and to any and every person within the limits of the lock and lock area, whether navigating the lock or not. No one shall cause any movement of any vessel, boat, or other floating thing in the lock or approaches except by or under the direction of the lockmaster or his/her assistants. In the event of an emergency, the lockmaster may depart from these regulations as he deems necessary. The lockmasters shall also be charged with the control and management of federally constructed mooring facilities.
(2) Locks staffed with contract personnel. The provisions of this paragraph apply to Cordell Hull Lock located at Mile 313.5 on the Cumberland River in Tennessee. Contract personnel shall give all necessary orders and directions for operation of the lock. No one shall cause any movement of any vessel, boat or other floating thing in the locks or approaches except by or under the direction of the contract lock operator. All duties and responsibilities of the lockmaster set forth in this section shall be performed by the contract lock operator except that responsibility for enforcing all laws, rules, and regulations shall be vested in a government employee designated by the Nashville District Engineer. The district engineer will notify waterway users and the general public through appropriate notices and media concerning the location and identity of the designated government employee.
(b) Safety rules for vessels using navigation locks. The following safety rules are hereby prescribed for vessels in the locking process, including the act of approaching or departing a lock:
(1) Tows with flammable or hazardous cargo barges, loaded or empty. (i) Stripping barges or transferring cargo is prohibited.
(ii) All hatches on barges used to transport flammable or hazardous materials shall be closed and latched, except those barges carrying a gas-free certificate.
(iii) Spark-proof protective rubbing fenders (“possums”) shall be used.
(2) All vessels. (i) Leaking vessels may be excluded from locks until they have been repaired to the satisfaction of the lockmaster.
(ii) Smoking, open flames, and chipping or other spark-producing activities are prohibited on deck during the locking cycle.
(iii) Painting will not be permitted in the lock chamber during the locking cycle.
(iv) Tow speeds shall be reduced to a rate of travel such that the tow can be stopped by checking should mechanical difficulties develop. Pilots should check with the individual lockmasters concerning prevailing conditions. It is also recommended that pilots check their ability to reverse their engines prior to beginning an approach. Engines shall not be turned off in the lock until the tow has stopped and been made fast.
(v) U.S. Coast Guard regulations require all vessels to have on board life saving devices for prevention of drowning. All crew members of vessels required to carry work vests (life jackets) shall wear them during a lockage, except those persons in an area enclosed with a handrail or other device which would reasonably preclude the possibility of falling overboard. All deckhands handling lines during locking procedure shall wear a life jacket. Vessels not required by Coast Guard regulations to have work vests aboard shall have at least the prescribed life saving devices, located for ready access and use if needed. The lockmaster may refuse lockage to any vessel which fails to conform to the above.
(c) Reporting of navigation incidents. In furtherance of increased safety on waterways the following safety rules are hereby prescribed for all navigation interests:
(1) Any incident resulting in uncontrolled barges shall immediately be reported to the nearest lock. The report shall include information as to the number of loose barges, their cargo, and the time and location where they broke loose. The lockmaster or locks shall be kept informed of the progress being made in bringing the barges under control so that he can initiate whatever actions may be warranted.
(2) Whenever barges are temporarily moored at other than commercial terminals or established fleeting areas, and their breaking away could endanger a lock, the nearest lock shall be so notified, preferably the downstream lock.
(3) Sunken or sinking barges shall be reported to the nearest lock both downstream and upstream of the location in order that other traffic passing those points may be advised of the hazards.
(4) In the event of an oil spill, notify the nearest lock downstream, specifying the time and location of the incident, type of oil, amount of spill, and what recovery or controlling measures are being employed.
(5) Any other activity on the waterways that could conceivably endanger navigation or a navigation structure shall be reported to the nearest lock.
(6) Whenever it is necessary to report an incident involving uncontrolled, sunken or sinking barges, the cargo in the barges shall be accurately identified.
(d) Precedence at locks. (1) The vessel arriving first at a lock shall normally be first to lock through, but precedence shall be given to vessels belonging to the United States. Licensed commercial passenger vessels operating on a published schedule or regularly operating in the “for hire” trade shall have precedence over cargo tows and like craft. Commercial cargo tows shall have precedence over recreational craft, except as described in paragraph (f) of this section.
(2) Arrival posts or markers may be established ashore above and/or below the locks. Vessels arriving at or opposite such posts or markers will be considered as having arrived at the locks within the meaning of this paragraph. Precedence may be established visually or by radio communication. The lockmaster may prescribe such departure from the normal order of precedence as in his judgment is warranted to achieve best lock utilization.
(e) Unnecessary delay at locks. Masters and pilots must use every precaution to prevent unnecessary delay in entering or leaving locks. Vessels failing to enter locks with reasonable promptness when signalled to do so shall lose their turn. Rearranging or switching of barges in the locks or in approaches is prohibited unless approved or directed by the lockmaster. This is not meant to curtail “jackknifing” or set-overs where normally practiced.
(f) Lockage of recreational craft. In order to fully utilize the capacity of the lock, the lockage of recreational craft shall be expedited by locking them through with commercial craft: Provided, That both parties agree to joint use of the chamber. When recreational craft are locked simultaneously with commercial tows, the lockmaster will direct, whenever practicable, that the recreational craft enter the lock and depart while the tow is secured in the lock. Recreational craft will not be locked through with vessels carrying volatile cargoes or other substances likely to emit toxic or explosive vapors. If the lockage of recreational craft cannot be accomplished within the time required for three other lockages, a separate lockage of recreational craft shall be made. Recreational craft operators are advised that many locks have a pull chain located at each end of the lock which signals the lockmaster that lockage is desired. Furthermore, many Mississippi River locks utilize a strobe light at the lock to signal recreational type vessels that the lock is ready for entry. Such lights are used exclusively to signal recreational craft.
(g) Simultaneous lockage of tows with dangerous cargoes. Simultaneous lockage of other tows with tows carrying dangerous cargoes or containing flammable vapors normally will only be permitted when there is agreement between the lockmaster and both vessel masters that the simultaneous lockage can be executed safely. He shall make a separate decision each time such action seems safe and appropriate, provided:
(1) The first vessel or tow in and the last vessel or tow out are secured before the other enters or leaves.
(2) Any vessel or tow carrying dangerous cargoes is not leaking.
(3) All masters involved have agreed to the joint use of the lock chamber.
(h) Stations while awaiting a lockage. Vessels awaiting their turn to lock shall remain sufficiently clear of the structure to allow unobstructed departure for the vessel leaving the lock. However, to the extent practicable under the prevailing conditions, vessels and tows shall position themselves so as to minimize approach time when signaled to do so.
(i) Stations while awaiting access through navigable pass. When navigable dams are up or are in the process of being raised or lowered, vessels desiring to use the pass shall wait outside the limits of the approach points unless authorized otherwise by the lockmaster.
(j) Signals. Signals from vessels shall ordinarily be by whistle; signals from locks to vessels shall be by whistle, another sound device, or visual means. when a whistle is used, long blasts of the whistle shall not exceed 10 seconds and short blasts of the whistle shall not exceed 3 seconds. Where a lock is not provided with a sound or visual signal installation, the lockmaster will indicate by voice or by the wave of a hand when the vessel may enter or leave the lock. Vessels must approach the locks with caution and shall not enter nor leave the lock until signaled to do so by the lockmaster. The following lockage signals are prescribed:
(1) Sound signals by means of a whistle. These signals apply at either a single lock or twin locks.
(i) Vessels desiring lockage shall on approaching a lock give the following signals at a distance of not more than one mile from the lock;
(a) If a single lockage only is required: One long blast of the whistle followed by one short blast.
(b) If a double lockage is required: One long blast of the whistle followed by two short blasts.
(ii) When the lock is ready for entrance, the lock will give the following signals:
(a) One long blast of the whistle indicates permission to enter the lock chamber in the case of a single lock or to enter the landward chamber in the case of twin locks.
(b) Two long blasts of the whistle indicates permission to enter the riverward chamber in the case of twin locks.
(iii) Permission to leave the locks will be indicated by the following signals given by the lock:
(a) One short blast of the whistle indicates permission to leave the lock chamber in the case of a single lock or to leave the landward chamber in the case of twin locks.
(b) Two short blasts of the whistle indicates permission to leave the riverward chamber in the case of twin locks.
(iv) Four or more short blasts of the lock whistle delivered in rapid succession will be used as a means of attracting attention, to indicate caution, and to signal danger. This signal will be used to attract the attention of the captain and crews of vessels using or approaching the lock or navigating in its vicinity and to indicate that something unusual involving danger or requiring special caution is happening or is about to take place. When this signal is given by the lock, the captains and crews of vessels in the vicinity shall immediately become on the alert to determine the reason for the signal and shall take the necessary steps to cope with the situation.
(2) Lock signal lights. At locks where density of traffic or other local conditions make it advisable, the sound signals from the lock will be supplemented by signal lights. Flashing lights (showing a one-second flash followed by a two-second eclipse) will be located on or near each end of the land wall to control use of a single lock or of the landward lock of double locks. In addition, at double locks, interrupted flashing lights (showing a one-second flash, a one-second eclipse and a one-second flash, followed by a three-second eclipse) will be located on or near each end of the intermediate wall to control use of the riverward lock. Navigation will be governed as follows:
(i) Red light. Lock cannot be made ready immediately. Vessel shall stand clear.
(ii) Amber light. Lock is being made ready. Vessel may approach but under full control.
(iii) Green light. Lock is ready for entrance.
(iv) Green and amber. Lock is ready for entrance but gates cannot be recessed completely. Vessel may enter under full control and with extreme caution.
(3) Radio communications. VHF-FM radios, operating in the FCC authorized Maritime Band, have been installed at all operational locks (except those on the Kentucky River and Lock 3, Green River). Radio contact may be made by any vessel desiring passage. Commercial tows are especially requested to make contact at least one half hour before arrival in order that the pilot may be informed of current river and traffic conditions that may affect the safe passage of his tow.
(4) All locks monitor 156.8 MHz (Ch. 16) and 156.65 MHz (Ch. 13) and can work 156.65 MHz (Ch. 13) and 156.7 MHz (Ch. 14) Ch. 16 is the authorized call, reply and distress frequency, and locks are not permitted to work on this frequency except in an emergency involving the risk of immediate loss of life or property. Vessels may call and work Ch. 13, without switching, but are cautioned that vessel to lock traffic must not interrupt or delay Bridge to Bridge traffic which has priority at all times.
(k) Rafts. Rafts to be locked through shall be moored in such manner as not to obstruct the entrance of the lock, and if to be locked in sections, shall be brought to the lock as directed by the lockmaster. After passing the lock the sections shall be reassembled at such distance beyond the lock as not to interfere with other vessels.
(l) Entrance to and exit from locks. In case two or more boats or tows are to enter for the same lockage, their order of entry shall be determined by the lockmaster. Except as directed by the lockmaster, no boat shall pass another in the lock. In no case will boats be permitted to enter or leave the locks until directed to do so by the lockmaster. The sides of all craft passing through any lock shall be free from projections of any kind which might injure the lock walls. All vessels shall be provided with suitable fenders, and shall be used to protect the lock and guide walls until it has cleared the lock and guide walls.
(m) Mooring – (1) At locks. (i) All vessels when in the locks shall be moored as directed by the lockmaster. Vessels shall be moored with bow and stern lines leading in opposite directions to prevent the vessel from “running” in the lock. All vessels will have one additional line available on the head of the tow for emergency use. The pilothouse shall be attended by qualified personnel during the entire locking procedure. When the vessel is securely moored, the pilot shall not cause movement of the propellers except in emergency or unless directed by the lockmaster. Tying to lock ladders is strictly prohibited.
(ii) Mooring of unattended or nonpropelled vessels or small craft at the upper or lower channel approaches will not be permitted within 1200 feet of the lock.
(2) Outside of locks. (i) No vessel or other craft shall regularly or permanently moor in any reach of a navigation channel. The approximate centerline of such channels are marked as the sailing line on Corps of Engineers’ navigation charts. Nor shall any floating craft, except in an emergency, moor in any narrow or hazardous section of the waterway. Furthermore, all vessels or other craft are prohibited from regularly or permanently mooring in any section of navigable waterways which are congested with commercial facilities or traffic unless it is moored at facilities approved by the Secretary of the Army or his authorized representative. The limits of the congested areas shall be marked on Corps of Engineers’ navigation charts. However, the District Engineer may authorize in writing exceptions to any of the above if, in his judgment, such mooring would not adversely affect navigation and anchorage.
(ii) No vessel or other craft shall be moored to railroad tracks, to riverbanks in the vicinity of railroad tracks when such mooring threatens the safety of equipment using such tracks, to telephone poles or power poles, or to bridges or similar structures used by the public.
(iii) Except in case of great emergency, no vessel or craft shall anchor over revetted banks of the river, and no floating plant other than launches and similar small craft shall land against banks protected by revetment except at regular commercial landings. In all cases, every precaution to avoid damage to the revetment works shall be exercised. The construction of log rafts along mattressed or paved banks or the tying up and landing of log rafts against such banks shall be performed in such a manner as to cause no damage to the mattress work or bank paving. Generally, mattress work extends out into the river 600 feet from the low water line.
(iv) Any vessel utilizing a federally constructed mooring facility (e.g., cells, buoys, anchor rings) at the points designated on the current issue of the Corps’ navigation charts shall advise the lockmaster at the nearest lock from that point by the most expeditious means.
(n) Draft of vessels. No vessel shall attempt to enter a lock unless its draft is at least three inches less than the least depth of water over the guard sills, or over the gate sills if there be no guard sills. Information concerning controlling depth over sills can be obtained from the lockmaster at each lock or by inquiry at the office of the district engineer of the district in which the lock is located.
(o) Handling machinery. No one but employees of the United States shall move any lock machinery except as directed by the lockmaster. Tampering or meddling with the machinery or other parts of the lock is strictly forbidden.
(p) Refuse in locks. Placing or discharging refuse of any description into the lock, on lock walls or esplanade, canal or canal bank is prohibited.
(q) Damage to locks or other work. To avoid damage to plant and structures connected with the construction or repair of locks and dams, vessels passing structures in the process of construction or repair shall reduce their speed and navigate with special caution while in the vicinity of such work. The restrictions and admonitions contained in these regulations shall not affect the liability of the owners and operators of floating craft for any damage to locks or other structures caused by the operation of such craft.
(r) Trespass of lock property. Trespass on locks or dams or other U.S. property pertaining to the locks or dams is strictly prohibited except in those areas specifically permitted. Parties committing any injury to the locks or dams or to any part thereof will be responsible therefor. Any person committing a willful injury to any U.S. property will be prosecuted. No fishing will be permitted from lock walls, guide walls, or guard walls of any lock or from any dam, except in areas designated and posted by the responsible District Engineer as fishing areas. Personnel from commercial and recreational craft will be allowed on the lock structure for legitimate business reasons; e.g., crew changes, emergency phone calls, etc.
(s) Restricted areas at locks and dams. All waters immediately above and below each dam, as posted by the respective District Engineers, are hereby designated as restricted areas. No vessel or other floating craft shall enter any such restricted area at any time. The limits of the restricted areas at each dam will be determined by the responsible District Engineer and market by signs and/or flashing red lights installed in conspicuous and appropriate places.
(t) [Reserved]
(u) Operations during high water and floods in designated vulnerable areas. Vessels operating on these waters during periods when river stages exceed the level of “ordinary high water,” as designated on Corps of Engineers’ navigation charts, shall exercise reasonable care to minimize the effects of their bow waves and propeller washes on river banks; submerged or partially submerged structures or habitations; terrestrial growth such as trees and bushes; and man-made amenities that may be present. Vessels shall operate carefully when passing close to levees and other flood protection works, and shall observe minimum distances from banks which may be prescribed from time to time in Notices to Navigation Interests. Pilots should exercise particular care not to direct propeller wash at river banks, levees, revetments, structures or other appurtenances subject to damage from wave action.
(v) Navigation lights for use at all locks and dams except on the Kentucky River and Lock 3, Green River. (1) At locks at all fixed dams and at locks at all movable dams when the dams are up so that there is no navigable pass through the dam, the following navigation lights will be displayed during hours of darkness:
(i) Three green lights visible through an arc of 360° arranged in a vertical line on the upstream end of the river (guard) wall unless the intermediate wall extends farther upstream. In the latter case, the lights will be placed on the upstream end of the intermediate wall.
(ii) Two green lights visible through an arc of 360° arranged in a vertical line on the downstream end of the river (guard) wall unless the intermediate wall extends farther downstream. In the latter case, the lights will be placed on the downstream end of the intermediate wall.
(iii) A single red light, visible through an arc of 360° on each end (upstream and downstream) of the land (guide) wall.
(2) At movable dams when the dam has been lowered or partly lowered so that there is an unobstructed navigable pass through the dam, the navigation lights indicated in the following paragraphs will be displayed during hours of darkness until lock walls and weir piers are awash.
(i) Three red lights visible through an arc of 360° arranged in a vertical line on the upstream end of the river (guard) wall.
(ii) Two red lights visible through an arc of 360° arranged in a vertical line on the downstream end of the river (guard) wall.
(iii) A single red light visible through an arc of 360° on each end (upstream and downstream) of the land (guide) wall.
(3) After lock walls and weir piers are awash they will be marked as prescribed in paragraph (x) of this section.
(4) If one or more bear traps or weirs are open or partially open, and may cause a set in current conditions at the upper approach to the locks, this fact will be indicated by displaying a white circular disk 5 feet in diameter, on or near the light support on the upstream end of the land (guide) wall during the hours of daylight, and will be indicated during hours of darkness by displaying a white (amber) light vertically under and 5 feet below the red light on the upstream end of the land (guide) wall.
(5) At Locks No. 1 and 2, Green River, when the locks are not in operation because of high river stages, a single red light visible through an arc of 360° will be displayed on each end (upstream and downstream) of the lock river (guard) will at which time the lights referred to above will not be visible.
(w) Navigation lights for use at locks and dams on the Kentucky River and Lock 3, Green River. A single red light visible through an arc of 360° shall be displayed during hours of darkness at each end of the river wall or extending guard structures until these structures are awash.
(x) Buoys at movable dams. (1) Whenever the river (guard) wall of the lock and any portion of the dam are awash, and until covered by a depth of water equal to the project depth, the limits of the navigable pass through the dam will be marked by buoys located at the upstream and downstream ends of the river (guard) wall, and by a single buoy over the end or ends of the portion or portions of the dam adjacent to the navigable pass over which project depth is not available. A red nun-type buoy will be used for such structures located on the left-hand side (facing downstream) of the river and a black can-type buoy for such structures located on the right-hand side. Buoys will be lighted, if practicable.
(2) Where powerhouses or other substantial structures projecting considerably above the level of the lock wall are located on the river (guard) wall, a single red light located on top of one of these structures may be used instead of river wall buoys prescribed above until these structures are awash, after which they will be marked by a buoy of appropriate type and color (red nun or black can buoy) until covered by a depth of water equal to the project depth. Buoys will be lighted, if practicable.
(y) Vessels to carry regulations. A copy of these regulations shall be kept at all times on board each vessel regularly engaged in navigating the rivers to which these regulations apply. Copies may be obtained from any lock office or District Engineer’s office on request. Masters of such vessels are encouraged to have on board copies of the current edition of appropriate navigation charts.
1. Muskingum River Lock & Dam 1 has been removed. Ohio River slackwater provides navigable channel for recreational craft to Lock 2 near Devola, Ohio. Muskingum River Locks 2 thru 11 inclusive have been transferred to the State of Ohio and are operated during the recreational boating season by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Inquiries regarding Muskingum River channel conditions and lock availability should be directed to the aforementioned Department.
2. Little Kanawha River Lock and Dam 1 has been removed, thus permitting recreational craft to navigate up to Lock 2 near Slate, W. Va. Operation of Locks 2 thru 5 on the Little Kanawha River has been discontinued.
3. Big Sandy River: Lock 1 has been removed, thus permitting recreational craft to navigate to Lock 2, near Buchanan, Ky. Operation of Lock 2 and Lock 3 near Fort Gay, W. Va. has been discontinued. Operation of Lock and Dam 1 on Levisa Fork near Gallup, Ky., and Lock and Dam 1 on Tug Fork near Chapman, Ky. has been discontinued.
4. Operation of the following Green River Locks has been discontinued: Lock 4 near Woodbury, Ky., Lock 5 near Glenmore, Ky., and Lock 6 near Brownsville, Ky.
5. Operation of Barren River Lock and Dam No. 1 near Richardsville, Ky. has been discontinued.
6. Operation of Rough River Lock and Dam No. 1 near Hartford, Ky. has been discontinued.
7. Operation of Osage River Lock and Dam 1 near Osage City, Mo., has been discontinued.
8. Operation of the 34 locks in the Illinois and Mississippi (Hennepin) Canal, including the feeder section, has been discontinued.
9. Operation of the Illinois and Michigan Canal has been discontinued.
(a) [Reserved]
(b) General. The regulations in this section shall implement those contained in paragraph(s) of § 207.300.
§ 207.310 Mississippi River at Keokuk, Iowa; operation of power dam by Mississippi River Power Co.
(a) All previous regulations of the Secretary of War relating to the use of the Mississippi River for the generation of power by the Mississippi River Power Co., including the memorandum of March 24, 1908, approved by the Secretary of War, March 26, 1908, are rescinded, and the following regulations will govern the operation of the dam until further orders:
(b) Excepting as specially provided in this section the normal flow of the river shall be discharged below the dam at all times of day and night.
(c) The Mississippi River Power Co. shall not during the period of navigation raise the level of its pond behind the Keokuk Dam when the natural flow of the Mississippi River is falling or when such natural flow is less than approximately 64,000 cubic feet per second, which corresponds to a normal stage of 6 feet above low water at Keokuk, Iowa, except upon the written permission of the U.S. District Engineer in charge of this locality, such permit to state the period which such ponding may cover and the maximum variation in stage below the dam which may be caused by each ponding.
(d) The granting of permits by the District Engineer shall be governed by the provision of the law authorizing the construction of the dam and its accessories, as follows:
(e) The power company when proposing to raise or lower the pond, either under general authority or special permission, shall give due notice to the District Engineer or his authorized agent of its intention.
(f) The power company shall hold all records relating to operations affecting the river discharge open to the inspection of the District Engineer or his authorized agent.
(g) It shall be the duty of the district engineer or his authorized agent to observe closely and carefully the operations of the power company and to maintain in addition to such as may be maintained by the power company, such river and pool gages as may be advisable, and make from time to time such examinations as may be necessary for determining the effect of the operation of the power dam and accessories on the river channels.
(h) The Department of the Army approves the method of regulating the flow below the Keokuk Dam by estimating the flow 24 hours in advance and maintenance of the stage corresponding to such flow as indicated by the river gage at U.S. Lock (the method employed during 1917). The general rules stated in paragraph (g) of this section are not intended to apply to unavoidable small compensating variations in pond level behind the dam inherent in such method of regulation.
§ 207.320 Mississippi River, Twin City Locks and Dam, St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minn.; pool level.
In accordance with the provisions of Article 8 of Federal Power Commission License of June 7, 1923 (Project No. 362-Minn., Ford Motor Co.), this section is prescribed for the control of the pool level created by the Twin City Locks and Dam, Minneapolis, in the interest of navigation, and supersedes rules and regulations made effective January 1, 1928, by the Secretary of War:
(a) The pool above the dam shall not be allowed to drop below elevation 744.5 (Cairo datum), except after loss or lowering of flashboards and before replacement or raising of same, during the navigation season; nor below elevation 743.3 during the period when the river is closed to navigation. The variation of pool level shall not exceed 0.5 foot per day whenever the pool is below elevation 745.5, and in addition, during the period when the river is closed to navigation, the maximum rate of such variation shall not exceed 0.1 foot per hour; except that during the navigation season, increases in pool level at rates greater than that specified may be made to eliminate wasting of water during an increase in river flow.
(b) Whenever, due to high flows, the pool above the dam is above elevation 746.5, all flashboards on the crest of the dam shall be removed or in the lowered position.
(c) To protect navigation in cases of emergency, such as the stranding of a boat or the loss of a pool below the Twin City Dam, etc., the licensee shall temporarily discharge water at such rates, subject to the limitations of paragraph (a) of this section, as may be directed by the U.S. District Engineer in charge of the locality.
(d) It shall be the duty of the U.S. District Engineer in charge of the locality to notify the licensee of the periods during which the river shall be considered open to navigation.
(e) It shall be the further duty of the said District Engineer or his authorized agent, by frequent inspections, to determine whether paragraphs (a) to (d) of this section are being observed. In case of noncompliance he shall so notify the licensee and report the facts to the Chief of Engineers.
§ 207.330 Mississippi River between Winnibigoshish and Pokegama dams, Leech River between outlet of Leech Lake and Mississippi River, and Pokegama reservoir; logging.
(a) Parties engaged in the transportation of loose logs, timbers, and rafts of logs, poles, posts, ties, or pulpwood, on the waters described in this section, shall conduct their operations so as to interfere as little as possible with navigation by steamboats, launches, or other craft, or with the operations of other parties using the waters for purposes similar to their own, and, so far as may be possible, shall prevent the formation of log jams.
(b) In case of the formation of a jam, the owner of the logs, poles, posts, ties, or pulpwood, causing the jam, or the representatives in charge of the drive or tow, shall cause the same to be broken with the least practicable delay.
(c) Steamboats, launches, or other craft desiring to pass through a body of floating logs, poles, or ties shall be given all reasonable and necessary assistance in doing so by the representatives in charge of the logs, poles, posts, ties, or pulpwood causing the obstruction.
(d) Any individual, firm, or corporation banking logs, poles, posts, ties, or pulpwood on the shores or within the banks of any of the waters covered by this section, which are to be transported during the navigation season, shall so place them as to maintain a clear navigable channel width of not less than 20 feet.
(e) Parties using the river for rafted poles, posts, ties, or pulpwood shall not tie rafts up to the bank two or more abreast; shall not tie up where there will be less than 50 feet of clear waterway between their raft and the other bank or between their raft and another tied to the opposite bank; and shall not tie more than three rafts along any bank without leaving an opening for a landing.
§ 207.340 Reservoirs at headwaters of the Mississippi River; use and administration.
(a) Description. These reservoirs include Winnibigoshish, Leech Lake, Pokegama, Sandy Lake, Pine River and Gull Lake.
(b) Penalties. The River and Harbor Act approved August 11, 1888 (25 Stat. 419, 33 U.S.C. 601) includes the following provisions as to the administration of the headwater reservoirs:
And it shall be the duty of the Secretary of War to prescribe such rules and regulations in respect to the use and administration of said reservoirs as, in his judgment, the public interest and necessity may require; which rules and regulations shall be posted in some conspicuous place or places for the information of the public. And any person knowingly and willfully violating such rules and regulations shall be liable to a fine not exceeding five hundred dollars, or imprisonment not exceeding six months, the same to be enforced by prosecution in any district court of the United States within whose territorial jurisdiction such offense may have been committed.
(c) Previous regulations now revoked. In accordance with the above act, the Secretary of War prescribed regulations for the use and administration of the reservoirs at the headwaters of the Mississippi River under date of February 11, 1931, which together with all subsequent amendments are hereby revoked and the following substituted therefor.
(d) Authority of officer in charge of the reservoirs. The accumulation of water in, and discharge of water from the reservoirs, including that from one reservoir to another, shall be under the direction of the U.S. District Engineer, St. Paul, Minnesota, and of his authorized agents subject to the following restrictions and considerations:
(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, the discharge from any reservoir may be varied at any time as required to permit inspection of, or repairs to, the dams, dikes or their appurtenances, or to prevent damage to lands or structures above or below the dams.
(2) During the season of navigation on the upper Mississippi River, the volume of water discharged from the reservoirs shall be so regulated by the officer in charge as to maintain as nearly as practicable, until navigation closes, a sufficient stage of water in the navigable reaches of the upper Mississippi and in those of any tributary thereto that may be navigated and on which a reservoir is located.
(e) Passage of logs and other floating bodies. Logs and other floating bodies may be sluiced or locked through the dams, but prior authority for the sluicing of logs must be obtained from the District Engineer when this operation necessitates a material change in discharge.
(f) Obstructions to flow of water. No person shall place floating bodies in a stream or pond above or below a reservoir dam when, in the opinion of the officer in charge, such act would prevent the necessary flow of water to or from such dam, or in any way injure the dam and its appurtenances, its dikes and embankments; and should floating bodies lying above or below a dam constitute at any time an obstruction or menace as beforesaid, the owners of said floating bodies will be required to remove them immediately.
(g) Trespass. No one shall trespass on any reservoir dam, dike, embankment or upon any property pertaining thereto.
§ 207.350 St. Croix River, Wis. and Minn.
(a) Logging regulations for river above Lake St. Croix. (1) During the season of navigation from May 1 to September 30, the full natural run of water in the river shall be permitted to flow between 1 a.m. on Thursday and 4 p.m. on Sunday of each week, and during the time between 1 p.m. on Wednesday and 4 p.m. on Sunday of each week no logs shall be sluiced into the river between St. Croix Falls, Wis., and Stillwater, Minn.
(2) Except during the period above mentioned, the parties engaged in handling logs upon the river shall have the right to sluice, drive, and float loose logs and to regulate the flow of water in the river as may best suit their convenience, all reasonable caution being taken to avoid log jams.
(3) This paragraph shall remain in force until modified or rescinded. (Act of May 9, 1900, 31 Stat. 172; 33 U.S.C. 410)
(b) Power dam at Taylors Falls. (1) That between April 1 and October 31, whenever the natural river flow exceeds 1,600 feet per second, the reduced flow shall be not less than 1,600 feet per second, and that whenever the natural flow be less than 1,600 feet per second, then the reduced flow shall not be less than such natural flow: Provided, That the District Engineer in charge of the locality may vary these requirements temporarily, as the interests of navigation, in his judgment, require, prompt report of his action in such instances to be made to the Chief of Engineers.
(2) The Northern States Power Co. shall establish automatic water-stage recorders of a type approved by the district engineer at the following localities:
(i) On the Nevers Pond near the dam.
(ii) On the St. Croix hydroplant pond near the dam.
(iii) On the St. Croix hydroplant tailrace.
(iv) On the St. Croix River near Osceola.
(v) On the St. Croix River near Marine.
(3) The gages are to be installed and maintained by the Northern States Power Co. in a manner satisfactory to the District Engineer, but their operation and inspection is to be under the sole direction of the District Engineer, who will retain the original records, furnishing the Northern States Power Co. with duplicates of the gage records.
§ 207.360 Rainy River, Minn.; logging regulations for portions of river within jurisdiction of the United States.
(a) During the season of navigation, parties engaged in handling logs upon such portion of the river shall have the right to sluice, drive, and float logs in such manner as may best suit their convenience: Provided, A sufficient channel for safe navigation by boats is maintained between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. from the opening of navigation to September 15th; between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. from September 16th to October 31st; and between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. from November 1st to the close of navigation.
(b) Owners of loose logs running in the river must maintain a sufficient force of men on the river to keep the logs in motion and to prevent the formation of log jams or accumulation of logs on the several rapids; and said log owners must also construct and maintain for the control and direction of floating logs, such guide booms on said rapids and at other points on said river, as may be considered necessary by the District Engineer in charge of the District.
(c) Owners of sack and brail rafts must so handle the same as not to interfere with the general navigation of the river or with the approaches to regular boat landings.
§ 207.370 Big Fork River, Minn.; logging.
(a) During the season of navigation, parties engaged in handling logs upon the river shall have the right to sluice, drive, and float logs in such manner as may best suit their convenience: Provided, A sufficient channel is maintained at all times for the navigation of steamboats, flatboats, and other small craft.
(b) A sufficient force of men must accompany each log drive to prevent the formation of log jams and to maintain an open channel for navigation.
(c) This section shall remain in force until modified or rescinded.
§ 207.380 Red Lake River, Minn.; logging regulations for portion of river above Thief River Falls.
(a) Parties wishing to run logs on Red Lake River must provide storage booms near the head of the river to take care of said logs.
(b) No one will be permitted to turn into the river at any time more logs than he can receive at his storage boom.
(c) Tows arriving at the head of the river shall turn their logs into the river successively in the order of their arrival, and such logs shall be at once driven to the owner’s storage boom.
(d) Parties authorized to run logs on the river shall have the use of the river on successive days in rotation to run their logs from their storage boom down, but not more than 1,000,000 feet, board measure, shall be released from the storage booms on any one day. Said parties must provide a sufficient force of log drivers to keep their logs in motion throughout the section of river above mentioned, so as to avoid obstructing the general navigation of the river.
(e) When a drive is made it shall be so conducted that not more than 1,500,000 feet, board measure, of logs shall pass any point on the river in 24 hours. The decision of the agent appointed by the United States shall be final as to the quantity of logs running at any time.
(f) This section shall remain in force until modified or rescinded.
§ 207.390 [Reserved]
(a) Controlling works. The controlling works shall be so operated that the water level in the Chicago River will be maintained at a level lower than that of the lake, except in times of excessive storm run-off into the river or when the level of the lake is below minus 2 feet, Chicago City Datum.
(1) The elevation to be maintained in the Chicago River at the west end of the lock will be determined from time to time by the U.S. District Engineer, Chicago, Illinois. It shall at no time be higher than minus 0.5 foot, Chicago City Datum, and at no time lower than minus 2.0 feet, Chicago City Datum, except as noted in the preceding paragraph.
(b) Lock – (1) Operation. The lock shall be operated by the Metropolitan Sanitary District of Chicago under the general supervision of the U.S. District Engineer, Chicago, Illinois. The lock gates shall be kept in the closed position at all times except for the passage of navigation.
(2) Description of lock.
| Feet | |
|---|---|
| Clear length | 600 |
| Clear width | 80 |
| Depth over sills | 1 24.4 |
1 This depth is below Chicago City Datum which is the zero of the gages mounted on the lock. The clear depth below Low Water Datum for Lake Michigan, which is the plane of reference for U. S. Lake Survey Charts, is 23.0 feet.
(3) Authority of lockmasters. The lockmaster shall be charged with the immediate control and management of the lock, and of the area set aside as the lock area, including the lock approach channels. He shall see that all laws, rules and regulations for the use of the lock and lock area are duly complied with, to which end he is authorized to give all necessary orders and directions in accordance therewith, both to employees of the Government and to any and every person within the limits of the lock or lock area, whether navigating the lock or not. No one shall cause any movement of any vessel, boat, or other floating thing in the lock or approaches except by or under the direction of the lockmaster or his assistants.
(4) Signals. (i) Signals from vessels for lockage shall be by whistle, horn or by idling or standing near the ends of the lock guide walls. Signals from the lockmaster shall be by the traffic light and horn and/or by voice with or without electrical amplification. In case of emergency, the lockmaster may signal the vessel by wave of hand or lantern, and the signals thus given shall have the same weight as though given by visual or sound devices at the lock. Vessels must approach the lock with caution and shall not enter or leave the lock until signaled to do so by the lockmaster. The following lockage signals and duration of sound signals are prescribed. A long blast shall be of 4 second duration; a short blast shall be of 1 second duration.
(a) Vessel signals. Inbound vessels at a distance of not more than 4,000 feet from the lock and outbound vessels immediately after crossing under the Lake Shore Drive bridge shall signal for lockage by 2 long and 2 short blasts of a whistle or horn.
(b) Lock signals. (1) When the lock is ready for entrance, the traffic light will show green, and vessels under 500 gross tons shall come ahead under caution and enter the lock; vessels of 500 gross tons or more shall come to a stop along the guide wall, as prescribed in paragraph (b)(5) of this section. Should the traffic light be out of order or be invisible due to thick weather, vessels shall upon 1 long blast of the lock horn approach and moor to the south guide wall or continue into the lock if so directed by the lockmaster.
(2) When the lock is not ready for entrance, the traffic light will show red, and vessels shall not pass beyond the end of the south guide wall: Provided, however, That vessels may approach and moor to said wall if authorized by 1 long blast of the lock horn.
(3) Permission to leave the lock shall be indicated by 1 short blast of the lock horn.
(4) Caution or danger will be indicated by 4 or more flashes of the red traffic light or 4 or more short blasts of the lock horn delivered in rapid succession.
(ii) When in the lock, vessels shall not blow whistle signals for tugs, bridges, landings, etc., without the lockmaster’s permission.
(iii) The master and chief engineer of each vessel of 500 gross tons or more shall be on duty at their respective stations when passing through the lock.
(5) Stop before entering. All vessels or tows of 500 gross tons or more shall come to a full stop at the point indicated by the sign reading “Stop” on the south guide wall and shall not proceed into the lock until so directed by the lockmaster.
(6) Maximum draft. Vessels drawing within 6 inches of the depth over the sills shall not be permitted lockage except under special permission from the lockmaster.
(7) Precedence at locks. The vessel arriving first at a lock shall be first to lock through; but precedence shall be given to vessels belonging to the United States and to commercial vessels in the order named. Arrival posts or markers may be established ashore above or below the locks. Vessels arriving at or opposite such posts or markers will be considered as having arrived at the locks within the meaning of this paragraph.
(8) Lockage of pleasure boats. The lockage of pleasure boats, house boats or like craft shall be expedited by locking them through with commercial craft (other than barges carrying petroleum products or highly hazardous materials) in order to utilize the capacity of the lock to its maximum. If, after the arrival of such craft, no separate or combined lockage can be accomplished within a reasonable time, not to exceed the time required for three other lockages, then separate lockage shall be made.
(9) Speed of approach and departure. Vessels of 500 gross tons or more when approaching the lock shall navigate at a speed not exceeding 2 miles per hour, and when leaving the lock shall navigate at a speed not exceeding 6 miles per hour. While entering or leaving the lock, the propellers of vessels of 500 gross tons or more shall be operated at slow speed so as not to undermine or injure the concrete paving on the bottom of the lock chamber. Tugs assisting vessels in lockage, and Coast Guard and fire vessels, may navigate at a higher speed when authorized by the lockmaster. Vessels of less than 500 gross tons shall operate at reasonable speed.
(10) Mooring. (i) Vessels shall be moored in the lock or along its approach walls in such manner as may be directed by the lockmaster. Tying to lock ladders, lamp standards, or railings is strictly prohibited. Commercial vessels and tows of 500 gross tons or more shall, in general, have at least one line out when entering the lock and shall be moored in the lock with two bow and two stern lines, which shall lead forward and aft at each end of the vessel or tow. When the gates are closed, commercial vessels shall not be permitted to work their wheels. Said vessels shall have at least two seamen ashore to handle the mooring lines while they are in the lock.
(ii) Mooring lines shall not be cast off until after the lock gates have been opened fully into their recesses, and the signal given to leave the lock. The lines leading aft shall be released first. The lines leading forward shall not be released until the vessel has started to move forward, so as to prevent the vessel from drifting back into the lock gates.
(11) [Reserved]
(12) Unnecessary delay at lock. Masters and pilots must use every precaution to prevent unnecessary delay in entering of leaving the lock. Vessels failing to enter lock with reasonable promptness, when signaled to do so, shall lose their turn. Vessels arriving at the lock with their tows in such shape so as to impede lockage, shall lose their turn.
(13) Depositing refuse prohibited. The depositing of ashes or refuse matter of any kind in the lock; the passing of coal from barges or flats while in the lock; and the emission of dense smoke from any vessel while passing through the lock, is forbidden.
(14) Vessels denied lockage. The lockmaster may deny the privilege of passage through the lock to any vessel with sharp or rough projecting surfaces of any kind, or overhanging rigging, or any vessel which is badly leaking or in a sinking condition.
(15) Fenders. All barges and oil tankers must be provided with suitable nonmetallic fenders so as to eliminate damage to the lock or approach walls and reduce fire hazard. Said fenders shall be used as may be directed by the lockmaster.
(16) Operating machinery. Lock employees only shall be permitted to operate the lock gates, valves, signals or other appliances. Tampering or meddling with machinery or other parts of the lock is strictly forbidden.
(17) [Reserved]
(18) Vessels to carry regulations. A copy of the regulations in this section shall be kept at all times on board each vessel regularly engaged in navigating this lock. Copies may be obtained without charge from the lockmaster.
(19) Failure to comply with regulations. Any vessel failing to comply with this section or any orders given in pursuance thereof, may in the discretion of the lockmaster be denied the privilege of passage through or other use of the lock or appurtenant structures.
(a) Controlling Works. (1) The controlling works shall be so operated that the water level at the downstream end of the lock will be maintained at a level lower than that of Lake Michigan, except in times of excessive storm run-off into the Illinois Waterway, or when the lake level is below minus 2 feet, Chicago City Datum.
(2) The elevation to be maintained at the downstream end of the lock shall at no time be higher than minus 0.5 feet, Chicago City Datum, and at no time lower than minus 2.0 feet, Chicago City Datum, except as noted in paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
(b) Lock – (1) Operation. The Thomas J. O’Brien Lock and Dam is part of the Illinois Waterway which is a tributary of the Mississippi River. All rules and regulations defined in § 207.300, Ohio River, Mississippi River above Cairo, Illinois, and their tributaries; use, administration and navigation shall apply.
(a) The use, administration, and navigation of the canal and canal grounds shall be under the direction of the District Engineer, Engineer Department at Large, in charge of the locality, and his authorized agents. The term “canal” shall include all of the natural waters of the St. Marys River on the U.S. side of the International Boundary and all of the canalized waterway and the locks therein between the western or upstream limit, which is a north and south line tangent to the west end of the Northwest Pier, and the eastern or downstream limit, which is a north and south line tangent to the northeast corner of the old Fort Brady Reservation, the distance between limits being 1.9 miles. The term “canal grounds” shall include all of the United States part and other lands, piers, buildings, water level regulation works, hydroelectric power plant, and other appurtenances acquired or constructed for the channel improvement and use of the waterway.
Rules and regulations governing the movements of vessels and rafts in St. Marys River from Point Iroquois, on Lake Superior, to Point Detour, on Lake Huron, prescribed by the U.S. Coast Guard pursuant to 33 U.S.C. 475, are contained in part 92 of this title.
(b) Masters of all registered vessels approaching and desiring to use the locks shall, upon arriving at Sailors Encampment, Little Rapids Cut, and Brush Point, report the name of the vessel and its draft to the Coast Guard Lookout Stations at those points.
(c) Approach requirements. Upon approaching the canal, vessel masters shall request lock dispatch by radiotelephone to the Corps of Engineers Chief Lockmaster at St. Marys Falls Canal dispatch tower (Radio Call WUE-21). Every up bound vessel requiring lock transit shall request lock dispatch immediately before initiating the turn at Mission Point at the intersection of Course 1, Bayfield Channel, and Course 2, Little Rapids Cut. Every down bound vessel shall call when approximately one-half mile downstream from Big Point.
(d) When in the locks, vessels shall not blow whistle signals for tugs, supply vessels, or persons unless authorized to do so by the District Engineer or his authorized agents.
(e)(1) Manning requirements. On all vessels of 400 gross tons or over navigating the canal under their own power, the following ship’s personnel shall be on duty. In the pilot house, on the bridge, the master. One mate and one able seaman shall be on watch and available to assist; in the engine room, the engineering watch officer. The chief engineer shall be available to assist. During transit of the locks, all vessels of 400 gross tons or over equipped with power operated mooring deck winches shall have, in addition to the winch operators, mates or signalman at the forward and after ends of the vessel to direct operations from points providing maximum vision of both the winch operators and canal linesmen.
(2) Linehandlers – (i) Cargo vessels equipped with bow thrusters and friction winches. Two line handlers from the vessel are required on the piers under normal weather conditions. Lockmasters can ask for three persons under severe weather conditions. If a vessel is experiencing mechanical problems or in extreme severe weather situations, the lockmaster may require four vessel-supplied line handlers on the pier.
(ii) Vessels with non-friction winches or lack of both bow and stern thrusters. Four vessel-supplied line handlers are required on the pier at all times.
(f) Vessel restrictions – (1) Speed limits. Within the limits of the canal, vessels approaching the locks shall not navigate at a speed greater than 2
(2) Use of bow/stern thrusters. Bow and/or stern thruster use shall be kept to a minimum while transiting the Soo Locks. Thrusters shall not be used while the thrusters are opposite lock gates. They may be used sparingly for short durations within the lock to maintain the ship position near the mooring wall or in an emergency. Thrusters shall be at zero thrust during the period the ship is stopped and moored to the wall with all lines out, and during raising and lowering of pool levels within the chamber.
(g) For passage through the canal, vessels or boats owned or operated by the U.S. Government may be given precedence over all others.
(h) Vessel lockage order – (1) Arrival. All registered vessels will be passed through the locks in the order of their arrival at the dispatch point unless otherwise directed by the District Engineer or his authorized agents. When a vessel that has stopped on its own business is ready to proceed, it is not entitled to precedence over other vessels already dispatched.
(2) Departure. The following order of departure procedure will apply to vessels leaving the MacArthur Lock and Poe Lock simultaneously or at approximately the same time:
(i) The first vessel to leave will be the vessel in the lock which is ready for vessel release first. The vessel in the other lock will be restrained by the gates remaining closed and the wire rope fender remaining in the down position.
(A) On down bound passages, the vessel retained shall not leave the lock until such time as the bow of the vessel leaving first reaches the end of the East Center pier.
(B) On up bound passages, the vessel retained shall not leave the lock until such time as the bow of the vessel leaving first reaches the railroad bridge.
(ii) When a 1,000 foot vessel is ready to depart the Poe Lock and a vessel has left the MacArthur Lock already, the 1,000 foot vessel may start to leave once the bow of the other vessel reaches the end of the respective nose pier.
(iii) Vessels will remain in radio contact with each other and with the Chief Lockmaster at all times until clear of the lock area.
(iv) The need for a deviation from the procedures set forth in paragraph (h)(2)(i) of this section will be determined on a case by case basis by the Chief Lockmaster. If two vessels masters agree to a different departure scheme, they both shall notify the Chief Lockmaster and request a change.
(i) Unless otherwise directed, all vessels or boats approaching the locks shall stop at the points indicated by signs placed on the canal piers until ordered by the District Engineer or his authorized agents to proceed into the lock.
(j) Vessels and boats shall not proceed to enter or leave a lock until the lock gates are fully in their recesses and the lockmaster has given directions for starting.
(k) Upon each passage through the canal, the master or clerk of the vessel or craft shall report to the canal office, upon the prescribed form, a statement of passengers, freight, and registered tonnage, and such other statistical information as may be required by the blank forms provided for the purpose.
(l) No business, trading, or loading or landing of freight, baggage, or passengers will be allowed on or over the canal piers or lock walls, or over the other piers within the limits of the canal grounds, except by prior authority of the District Engineer or his authorized agents.
(m) No person shall throw material of any kind into the canal, or litter the grounds with any refuse.
(n) The releasing of vessel steam, water, or waste from side discharge openings upon the piers or lock walls, the cleaning of boiler flues in the locks or canal, or the emission of dense smoke from the stack of any vessel while passing through the locks, is forbidden.
(o) No person shall enter or navigate the canal with a boat or other craft which, when entering or while navigating the canal, shall have an iron or irons projecting from it or a rough surface or surfaces on it which would be liable to damage the lock walls or canal piers.
(p) No person shall cause or permit any vessel or boat of which he is in charge or on which he is employed to in any way obstruct the canal or delay in passing through it, except upon prior authority of the District Engineer or his authorized agents.
(q) No person shall enter upon any part of the canal grounds except as permitted, either generally or in specific instances, by the District Engineer or his authorized agents. No person shall willfully or carelessly injure, tamper with, or damage the canal or any of the Government buildings, works or structures, trees or shrubbery, or other public property pertaining to the canal or canal grounds.
(r) Tug assist procedure – (1) Self-powered vessels. Mariners are advised that often times adverse local weather conditions, i.e., high winds, current conditions and/or inclement weather, exists as vessels approach, enter and/or depart the Soo Locks. These conditions combined with close quarters slow speed maneuvering, particularly with large vessels not equipped with bow or stern thrusters, may cause control difficulties for certain classes of vessels. Therefore, any vessel requesting lockage which in the opinion of the vessel master in consultation with the pilot on board, where applicable may experience severe control problems due to the above conditions, must request assistance by one or more tugs to ensure full control over the vessel at all times. Vessel masters and pilots must consult with the lockmaster concerning local conditions well in advance of arrival at the lock to allow tug assistance to be arranged if necessary. These guidelines apply to all vessels.
(2) Non self-powered vessels. All barges or other vessels navigating within the canal and not operating under their own power, whether approaching or leaving the locks, are required to be assisted by one or more tugs of sufficient power to ensure full control at all times.
(s) Smoking and open flames are prohibited on the canal grounds within 50 feet of any tanker transiting the canal and locks, and on board the tanker transiting the locks except in such places as may be designated in the ship’s regulations.
(t) All oil tankers, barges, and other vessels which are used for transporting inflammable liquids, either with or without cargo, shall, if not equipped with fixed timber fenders, be prevented from contacting any unfendered pier, lock wall, or other structure by an adequate number of suitable fenders of timber, rubber, or rope placed between the vessel and such unfendered structure.
(u) The locks will be opened and closed to navigation each year as provided in paragraphs (u) (1) and (2) of this section except as may be authorized by the Division Engineer. Consideration will be given to change in these dates in an emergency involving disaster to a vessel or other extraordinary circumstances.
(1) Opening date. At least one lock will be placed in operation for the passage of vessels on March 25. Thereafter, additional locks will be placed in operation as traffic density demands.
(2) Closing date. The locks will be maintained in operation only for the passage of down bound vessels departing from a Lake Superior port before midnight (2400 hours) of January 14, and of upbound vessels passing Detour before midnight (2400 hours) of January 15. Vessel owners are requested to report in advance to the Engineer in charge at Sault Ste. Marie, the name of vessel and time of departure from a Lake Superior port on January 14 before midnight, and of vessels passing Detour on January 15 before midnight, which may necessitate the continued operation of a lock to permit passage of vessel.
(v) The maximum overall dimensions of vessels that will be permitted to transit MacArthur Lock are 730 feet in length and 75 feet in width, except as provided in paragraph (v)(1) of this section. Further, any vessel of greater length than 600 feet must be equipped with deck winches adequate to safely control the vessel in the lock under all conditions including that of power failure.
(1) Whenever the Poe Lock is out of service for a period exceeding 24 hours the District Engineer may allow vessels greater than 730 feet in length, but not exceeding 767 feet in length to navigate the MacArthur Lock. Masters of vessels exceeding 730 feet in length shall be required to adhere to special handling procedures as prescribed by the District Engineer.
(w) The maximum overall dimensions of vessels that will be permitted to transit the New Poe Lock without special restrictions are 100 feet in width, including fendering, and 1,000 feet in length, including steering poles or other projections. Vessels having overall widths of over 100 feet and not over 105 feet including fendering, and overall lengths of not more than 1,100 feet, including projections, will be permitted to transit the New Poe Lock at such times as determined by the District Engineer or his authorized representative that they will not unduly delay the transit of vessels of lesser dimensions, or endanger the lock structure because of wind, ice, or other adverse conditions. These vessels also will be subject to such special handling requirements as may be found necessary by the Area Engineer at time of transit. Vessels over 1,000 feet in length will be required to be equipped with six mooring cables and winches ready for use to assist in safe transit of the lock.
(x) Masters or other persons refusing to comply with the regulations in this section or any orders given in pursuance thereof, or using profane, indecent, or abusive language, may, in the discretion of the District Engineer or his authorized agents, be denied the privileges of the locks and canal grounds.
§ 207.441 St. Marys Falls Canal and Locks, Mich.; security.
(a) Purpose and scope of the regulations. The regulations in this section are prescribed as protective measures. They supplement the general regulations contained in § 207.440 the provisions of which shall remain in full force and effect except as modified by this section.
(b) Restrictions on transit of vessels. The following classes of vessels will not be permitted to transit the U.S. locks or enter any of the United States approach canals:
(1)-(3) [Reserved]
(4) Tanker vessels – (i) Hazardous material. Cleaning and gas freeing of tanks on all hazardous material cargo vessels (as defined in 49 CFR part 171) shall not take place in a lock or any part of the Soo Locks approach canals from the outer end of the east center pier to the outer end of the southwest pier.
(ii) Approaching. Whenever a tank vessel is approaching the Soo Locks and within the limits of the lock piers (outer ends of the southwest and east center piers) either above or below the locks, no other vessel will be released from the locks in the direction of the approaching tank vessel, unless the tank vessel is certified gas free or is carrying non-combustible products, until the tank vessel is within the lock chamber or securely moored to the approach pier. Whenever a tank vessel is within a Soo Lock Chamber, the tank vessel, unless certified gas free or is carrying non-combustible products, will not be released from the lock until the channel within the limits of the lock piers either above or below the lock, in the direction of the tank vessel, is clear of vessels or vessels therein are securely moored to the approach pier. This limits movement to a single vessel whenever a tank vessel is within the limits of the lock piers either above or below the locks, unless the tank vessel is certified gas free or is carrying non-combustible products. Tank vessels to which this paragraph (b)(4)(ii) applies include those vessels carrying fuel oil, gasoline, crude oil or other flammable liquids in bulk, including vessels that are not certified gas free where the previous cargo was one of these liquids.
(iii) Locks park. Except as provided in paragraph (b)(5) of this section, tankers with any type cargo will be permitted to transit the MacArthur Lock when the locks park is closed. The exact dates and times that the park is closed varies, but generally these periods are from midnight to 6 a.m. June through September with one or two hour closure extensions in the early and late seasons. Tankers carrying non-combustible products that will not react hazardously with water or tankers that have been purged of gas or hazardous fumes and certified gas free will be allowed to transit the MacArthur Lock when the park is open.
(5) Carrying explosives. All vessels, except U.S. vessels of war and public vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101, carrying explosives are prohibited from transiting the U.S. Locks.
(c) Personnel restrictions. Masters of vessels are responsible for the conduct of crew and passengers while transiting St. Marys Falls Canal and Locks and for strict compliance with the regulations. The following procedures are established for the control of persons embarking or debarking from vessels while transiting the locks:
(1) The master or mate and not more than three deckhands will be permitted to go ashore from transiting vessels and then only for normal operations and business incident to the transit. A maximum of four men will be permitted ashore at any one time from any one ship.
(2) Personnel – (i) Embarking. Personnel, including technicians, repairmen, and company officials will be permitted to embark at the locks if they are in possession of a letter addressed to the Area Engineer, St. Marys Falls Canal, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, from the vessel’s master, the operators of the vessel, or the Lake Carriers’ Association, requesting that the individual named therein be permitted to embark on a particular vessel. United States vessel personnel must also be in possession of a specially validated seaman’s document issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. Their papers will be presented to the civilian guard on duty at the main gate on Portage Avenue who will arrange escort from the gate to the vessel. Luggage will be subject to inspection.
(ii) Debarking. The vessel master will furnish prior notification to the Chief Lockmaster at St. Marys Falls Canal Tower (Radio Call WUD-31) that he has vessel personnel, technicians, repairmen or company officials aboard for whom he requests authority to debark. If authority to debark is granted such personnel will be furnished a letter by the vessel master, addressed to the Area Engineer, St. Marys Falls Canal, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, giving the name and position of the individual concerned. Personnel will not debark until they have been properly identified by a licensed officer of the vessel and the letter furnished to the escort provided from the civilian guard detail who will escort personnel to the gate. In the event a person debarking for medical attention is a litter case, notification will be given sufficiently in advance to permit the Chief Lockmaster to route the vessel to the MacArthur Lock in order that the long carry over the lock gates may be avoided. The Area Engineer will make the necessary arrangements for clearance of ambulances and medical personnel into the lock area.
(3) No passengers or guest passengers will be permitted to embark or debark at St. Marys Falls Canal except in emergency when medical attention is required.
(4) Letters cited in paragraph (c)(2) of this section are valid only for a single passage through the lock area. In the event frequent access to the area is required a request for extended access with reasons therefor will be submitted to the Area Engineer, St. Marys Falls Canal, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, who may arrange for the necessary clearance.
(5) Emergency needs to embark or debark which develop with insufficient time to follow the procedure outlined in this paragraph will be approved or disapproved by the Area Engineer, St. Marys Falls Canal, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, according to the circumstances of the individual case, and requests therefor should be promptly directed to him.
§ 207.460 Fox River, Wis.
(a) Use, administration and navigation of the locks and canals – (1) Navigation. The Fox River and Wolf River navigation seasons will commence and close as determined by the district engineer, Corps of Engineers, in charge of the locality, depending on conditions and need for lock service. Days and hours of lock operation will also be determined by the district engineer. Public notices will be issued announcing or revising the opening and closing dates and operating schedules at least 10 days in advance of such dates.
(2) Authority of lockmaster. The movement of all boats, vessels, tows, rafts and floating things, both powered and nonpowered, in the canals and locks, approaches to the canals, and at or near the dams, shall be subject to the direction of the lockmaster or his duly authorized representatives in charge at the locks.
(3) Signals. All boats approaching the locks shall signal for lockage by four distinct whistles of short duration. Locks will not be opened on such audible signal during the period when advance notice is required if the services of the lock tender are required elsewhere to meet prior requests for lockages.
(4) Mooring in locks. All craft being locked shall be secured to the mooring posts on the lock walls. Large craft shall use one head line and at least one spring line. Lines shall remain fastened until the signal is given by the lock tender for the craft to leave the lock.
(5) Delays in canals. No boat, barge, raft or other floating craft shall tie up or in any way obstruct the canals or approaches, or delay entering or leaving the locks, except by permission from proper authority. Boats wishing to tie up for some hours or days in the canals must notify the Project Engineer directly or through a lock tender, and proper orders on the case will be given. Boats so using the canals must be securely moored in the places assigned, and if not removed promptly on due notice, will be removed, as directed by the Project Engineer at the owner’s expense. Boats desiring to tie up in the canals for the purpose of unloading cargoes over the canal banks must, in each case, obtain permission in advance from the District Engineer. Request for such permission shall be submitted through the Project Engineer.
(6) Provisions for lockage service. (i) Commercial vessels, barges, rafts and tows engaged in commerce will be provided lockages during the same period as provided for pleasure boats (see paragraph (a)(6)(iv) of this section).
(ii) Pleasure boats, powered and non-powered, houseboats and similar craft will be provided with not more than one lockage each way through the same lock in a 24-hour period.
(iii) All small vessels or craft, such as skiffs, sculls, sailing boats, etc., shall be passed through locks in groups of not less than six at one lockage, or may be granted separate lockage if the traffic load at the time permits.
(iv) Lockage may be provided during certain hours other than announced at the intermediate locks provided prior requests are made to the Corps of Engineers, Fox River Project Office. Requests may be made either in writing, by telephone or in person to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fox River Project Office, 1008 Augustine Street, Kaukauna, Wisconsin 54130, telephone: 414-766-3531.
(7) Injury to locks or fixtures. Vessel operators shall use great care not to strike any part of the locks or sluice walls, or any gate or appurtenance thereto, or machinery for operating the gates, or the walls protecting the banks of the canals. All boats using the canals shall be free from projecting irons or rough surfaces that would be liable to damage the locks or any part of the canals, and they must be provided with fenders to be used in guarding the lock walls, etc., from injury. Boats will not be permitted to enter or leave the locks until the lock gates are fully in the gate recesses, and the lock tender has directed the boat to proceed. No vessel shall be raced or crowded alongside another vessel, or be moved at such speed as will cause excessive swells or wash. Speed shall be kept at a minimum consistent with safe navigation.
(8) Handling gates. No one, unless authorized by the lock tender, shall open or close any gate, or valve, or in any way interfere with the employees in the discharge of their duties. The lock tender may call for assistance from the master of any boat using the lock should such aid be needed.
(9) Draft of boats. No boat shall enter a canal or lock whose actual draft exceeds the least depth of water in the channel of the canal as given by the Project Engineer.
(10) Right-of-way. Boats going downstream shall have the right-of-way over boats going upstream. Ordinarily, the boats or tows arriving first at any of the locks shall have precedence in passage except that those vessels which have given advance notice, when such notice is required, shall have precedence over other vessels when such notifying vessel is ready for passage. In all cases boats and barges belonging to the United States, or employed upon public works, shall have precedence over all others, and commercial passenger boats shall have precedence over tows. All boats not taking advantage of the first lawful opportunity to pass shall lose their turn. When lockage has started on tows requiring multiple lockages, all units of the tow will be locked ahead of other vessels traveling in the same direction. In the case of tows requiring two lockages, any craft awaiting lockage in the opposite direction will have priority over the second lockage of the tow.
(11) Boats and rafts without power. No boat or raft without power except small boats controlled by sails or oars shall be brought through the canal unless accompanied by a power operated boat.
(12) Dumping of refuse in waterway. No refuse or other material shall be thrown or dumped from vessels into the natural river, improved channels, canals and locks or placed on any bank of the river or berm of the canals so that it is liable to be thrown or washed into the waterway. (Sec. 13 of the River and Harbor Act of Mar. 3, 1899 (30 Stat. 1152; 33 U.S.C. 407), prohibits the depositing of any refuse matter in any navigable water or along the banks thereof where the same shall be liable to be washed into such navigable water.)
(13) Drawing off water. No water shall be drawn by any party or parties from any portion of the Fox River canals, or of the Fox River, including its lakes, improved channels and unimproved channels, to such extent as to lower the water surface below the crest of that dam next below the place where such draft of water is affected.
(14) Obstructing navigation. Anyone who shall willfully or through carelessness in any way obstruct the free navigation of the waterway, or by violation of any of the laws or regulations governing the waterway and those using it, delay or inconvenience any boat having the right to use the waterway, shall be responsible for all damages and delays, and for all expenses for removing the obstructions. (Sec. 20 of the River and Harbor Act of Mar. 3, 1899 (30 Stat. 1154; 33 U.S.C. 415), authorizes the immediate removal or destruction of any sunken vessel, craft or similar obstruction, which impedes or endangers navigation.)
(15) [Reserved]
(16) Trespass on U.S. property. Trespass on waterway property or injury to the banks, locks, dams, canals, piers, fences, trees, buildings or any other property of the United States pertaining to the waterway is strictly prohibited. No business, trading or landing of freight or baggage will be allowed on or over Government property, unless a permit or lease approved by the Secretary of the Army has been secured.
(17) Neenah dam outlet works. (i) During periods of high water, when determined to be necessary by the District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Chicago, to reduce the threat of flooding, it shall be the duty of the person owning, operating, or controlling the dam across the Neenah Channel of the Fox River at Neenah, Wis., acting as agent of the United States, to open or close, or cause to be opened or closed, pursuant to paragraph (a)(17)(ii) of this section, the outlet works of said dam to regulate the passage of water through said outlet works.
(ii) The outlet works of said dam shall be opened when and to the extent directed by the District Engineer or his authorized field representatives, and said outlet works shall thereafter be closed when and to the extent directed by the said District Engineer or his authorized field representative.
(b) Use of the United States drydock on Fox River at Kaukauna, Wis. (1) The drydock being a part of the Fox River improvement, its use will be governed by the general regulations for the use, administration, and navigation of that river, so far as they may be applicable.
(2) The drydock at Kaukauna, when not required for repairs or construction by the United States, may be used by private parties or corporations under certain restrictions and under the supervision and direction of the U.S. District Engineer in charge of the locality or his authorized agent.
(3) The drydock will be loaned to private parties only when no private drydock is available at the time and for the purpose desired. Applicants will be required to establish over their signature the fact that due effort has been made to secure the use of a private drydock and none can be had.
(4) Private parties desiring to use the Kaukauna drydock will give notice to the U.S. Assistant Engineer in local charge at Appleton, Wis., as long in advance as practicable, stating when use of the dock is wanted, nature of repairs required, and the dimensions and character of boat. No boat will enter the dock until the permission of the U.S. District Engineer or the Assistant Engineer above referred to has been obtained.
(5) All private parties or corporations using the Kaukauna drydock will furnish all material and labor, including blocking, when necessary, required for prompt execution of their work, and will also furnish all labor for properly operating, under the immediate personal supervision of an authorized canal employee, gates, and sluices of the drydock. No gate or sluice of the drydock will be operated, or in any way meddled with, except by permission of and under the personal supervision of such authorized canal employee.
(6) No boat will be allowed to occupy the Kaukauna drydock for a longer period than 2 days when other boats are waiting to use the dock, except in cases when, in the opinion of the U.S. District Engineer or his authorized agent, circumstances necessitate and justify a longer use than 2 days. The U.S. District Engineer or his authorized agent is authorized to remove from the drydock any boat using or occupying such dock without his authority, and the expense of such removal will be paid by the party or parties owning such boat.
(7) The wages of all mechanics and laborers, due from private parties for repairs carried on in the Kaukauna drydock, must be paid before the boat leaves the dock.
(8) Repair shop, timber shed, tools, etc., owned by the Government at and near the drydock shall not be used by parties allowed to occupy the drydock.
(9) Lumber and all material needed by parties allowed to use the drydock may be deposited in the drydock yards at such places as may be directed, but only for such time as repairs are being made, and residue must be entirely removed when the boat leaves the dock; general storage will not be permitted.
(10) All refuse and old material taken from boats under repairs must be removed or disposed of, as may be directed, by the owner of the boat or his employees without expense to the Government, and before the boat leaves the dock, and to the satisfaction of the agent in charge of the dock.
(11) The Government charges for the authorized and necessary use and occupancy of the Kaukauna drydock by private boats shall be, until further orders, as follows:
(i) Docking charges (including lay time for the calendar day on which vessel is docked): Tugs, motor boats, and dredges, 75 cents per linear foot; $25 minimum charge. Barges, dump scows, and derrick boats, 65 cents per linear foot; $20 minimum charge.
(ii) Lay-day charges (excluding Sundays and national holidays, unless repairs are made on such Sundays and holidays): For all vessels, 20 cents per linear foot per calendar day or part thereof; $7 per calendar day or part thereof, minimum charge.
(12) The charges for all use or occupancy of the Kaukauna drydock by a boat or private parties, after repairs on such boat have, in the opinion of the U.S. District Engineer or authorized agent, been so far completed as to permit safe removal from the dock, or after such removal has been ordered by the U.S. District Engineer or his authorized agent, shall be $50 per day or part of a day, in addition to any penalties incurred for violation of any of the regulations prescribed by law for the government of the dock and those using it.
(13) The dock will be considered in use by a boat from the time the dock is placed at its disposal until the boat is out of the dock.
(14) The length of all vessels shall be the over-all length measured on the main deck from stem to stern.
(15) The charges for the use of the drydock shall be paid within 10 days from date of bill, which will be submitted to the owner by the District Engineer as promptly as possible after the vessel leaves the dock. If charges are not so paid, the vessel shall be liable to the amount of the charges and the cost of collection in the manner prescribed by law, and the owner of the vessel shall be denied the use of the drydock until all charges and the cost of collection have been paid to the United States.
(16) This section supersedes the regulations for the use of this drydock approved April 10, 1906, which regulations are hereby revoked.
(a) Authority of canal officers. The movement of all boats and floating things in the canal and in the approaches thereto shall be under the direction of the superintendent or his authorized assistants, and their orders and instructions must be obeyed.
(b) Signals. On entering the canal at either entrance, steamers or tugs must blow their whistles for 1 minute in order to warn craft approaching from opposite direction and give them time to guard against collisions, by tying up if necessary. All steamers approaching others going in the opposite direction shall slacken speed so as to pass in safety. Compliance is required with rule V of the rules and regulations for the government of pilots, adopted by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Rule V. Whenever a steamer is nearing a short bend or curve in the channel where, from the height of the banks or other cause, a steamer approaching from the opposite direction cannot be seen for a distance of half a mile, the pilot of such steamer, when he shall have arrived within half a mile of such curve or bend, shall give a signal by one long blast of the steam whistle, which signal shall be answered by a similar blast by the pilot of any approaching steamer that may be within hearing. Should such signal be so answered by a steamer upon the farther side of such bend, then the usual signals for the meeting and passing shall immediately be given and answered; but if the first alarm signal of such pilot be not answered, he is to consider the channel clear and govern himself accordingly.
(c) Speed. The rate of speed while passing through the canal shall not exceed 5 miles per hour.
(d) Keeping in the center. The center must be kept all the way through, except in passing other craft. In case of grounding, the rapid or strong working of boat’s engines is strictly forbidden.
(e)-(g) [Reserved]
(h) Rafts. (1) The passage of bag or sack rafts, or of loose logs, into or through the canal is prohibited.
(2) Rafts shall be made up with logs parallel to each other, in the direction of raft lengths, secured and held closely together by frequent cross-sticks, chains, or cables.
(3) Rafts shall not be of greater dimensions, either way, than 50 feet wide by 600 feet long, and if longer than 300 feet shall be handled by two tugs.
(4) No raft shall pass through the canal, unless by special permission of the superintendent or his authorized assistants, who will direct a time for passing that will least interfere with other navigation.
(5) Masters of tugs and other persons in charge of rafts are required to avoid damaging the canal revetments, and displacing buoys, spars, or the pedestal of any range light aiding navigation through the canal. They shall keep careful watch when passing aids to navigation, and should any be accidentally displaced, shall report the fact at the earliest possible moment to the superintendent or his authorized assistants.
(i)-(l) [Reserved]
(m) Refuse in canal. No person shall roll or throw any stones, ashes, cinders, or other material into the canal or the approaches thereto, or place any such material on any bank or berm of the canal so that it is liable to be thrown or roll in.
(n)-(o) [Reserved]
(a) General. The use, administration, and navigation of the lock shall be under the direction and supervision of the District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Detroit, Mich., and his authorized agents.
(b) Authority of lockmaster. The lockmaster shall be charged with the immediate control and management of the lock, and of the area set aside as the lock area, including the lock approach channels. He shall see that all laws, rules, and regulations for the use of the lock and lock area are duly complied with, to which end he is authorized to give all necessary orders and directions in accordance therewith, both to the employees of the Government and to any and every person within the limits of the lock area, whether navigating the lock or not. No one shall cause any movement of any boat, craft or other floating object in the lock or approaches except by or under the direction of the lockmaster or his assistants.
(c) Operation. The lock operating season will commence and close as determined by the district engineers, Corps of Engineers in charge of the locality, depending on conditions and the need for lockage services. Public notices will be issued announcing the opening and closing dates at least 15 days in advance of such dates.
(d) Maximum allowable dimensions of craft. (1) Overall length – 60 feet.
(2) Overall width – 16 feet.
(3) Height above water – 15 feet when upper pool is at low water datum.
(4) Draft – 6 feet when lower pool is at low water datum.
(e) Signals. (1) Craft desiring lockage in either direction shall give notice to the lock tenders, when not farther than 200 yards from the lock, by one long blast (of 10 seconds duration) followed by one short blast (of 3 seconds duration) of whistle, horn, or siren.
(2) Craft not equipped with whistle, horn, or siren may signal for lockage by use of the signal provided for this purpose located near the extreme end of the guide wall to the starboard side of the craft, both upbound and downbound.
(f) The procedures for transit of lock. (1) Stand clear of the lock while the red signal light shows.
(2) When the green signal light shows and the lock horn sounds three blasts, approach and enter the lock.
(3) Full control of the craft must be maintained while entering the lock.
(4) After entrance to the lock is complete, the craft shall be securely moored to the cleats and bitts situated on the lock wall.
(5) While moored in the lock, the operator of the craft shall maintain constant attention to the mooring lines, to provide slack or retain tautness as needed.
(6) The craft shall remain securely moored until the exit lock gate is fully open and the lock horn sounds one blast.
(7) When the exit lock gate is fully open and the lock horn has sounded one blast, the craft shall immediately leave the lock under full control of its operator.
(g) Precedence at lock. The craft arriving first at the lock shall be first to lock through; but precedence will be given to craft belonging to the United States or other local government entities, such as state, county, or municipality. Arrival posts may be established above and below the lock. Craft arriving at or opposite such posts or markers will be considered as having arrived at the locks within the meaning of this paragraph.
(a) All boats, barges, and vessels entering the harbor will be required to take such positions as may be assigned them by the officer in charge, who will direct their movements, either from the breakwater or from the Government tug on the harbor.
(b) In the absence of any directions as to position, boats, barges, and vessels entering the harbor will observe the following rule: The first steam vessel, or the first steam vessel with consort in tow, on entering the harbor for shelter, will proceed to the upper end of the breakwater. All steam vessels, and all steam vessels with consorts in tow, entering later, will place themselves in a compact position close to those preceding them. Sailing craft will so locate themselves that they will not lie in the way of other vessels entering the harbor. All vessels of every description will in no way place themselves so as to interfere with the work of reconstruction of piers, or repairs, that may be in progress at the time.
(c) The use of chains in making fast to the breakwater will not be permitted. Lines must be attached to the snubbing posts only, and outboard anchors taken in.
(d) Steam craft with barges or vessels in tow will, if practicable, at once place them compactly alongside the breakwater, either taking in the towlines entirely or passing them on the breakwater so as not to interfere in any way with the landing or departure of boats or vessels between them. If impracticable to place them alongside the breakwater, they will each drop anchor and at once take in all towlines extending from one to the other.
(e) Passenger boats will, in general, have the preference as to location and attention by the officer in charge. Rafts will give way to all documented craft.
(f) All classes of boats, barges, vessels, or other floating property making fast to the breakwater must at once place such fenders between themselves and the breakwater as may be thought necessary by the officer in charge to prevent chafing or other damage.
(g) The unloading of wood, coal, ballast, stone, or freight of any class upon the breakwater is expressly prohibited, except in certain cases allowed by special permission from the officer in charge.
(h) Each and every piece of floating property made fast to the breakwater, or anchored in the harbor, must keep outboard from sunset to sunrise a conspicuous white light, and must have upon it and in immediate charge of it a watchman during the entire time such floating property is in the harbor. All colored lights must be at once taken in, or covered, on dropping anchor or making fast to the breakwater.
(a)-(c) [Reserved]
(d) No vessel shall moor or anchor to any structure of the United States without the consent of the District Engineer, U.S. Army, in charge of the locality, or his authorized agent.
(e) No vessel shall moor or anchor in or along any improved channel or basin in such manner as to interfere with improvement or maintenance operations therein. Whenever in the opinion of the District Engineer any vessel is so moored or anchored, the owner thereof shall cause said vessel to be moved upon notification from and within the time specified by said District Engineer.
(a)-(b) [Reserved]
(c) No vessel or other craft shall moor or anchor to any structure of the United States without the consent of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers.
(d) No vessel or other craft shall moor or anchor in or along any improved channel or basin in such a manner as to interfere with the improvement or maintenance operations therein. Whenever in the opinion of the District Engineer any vessel or craft is so moored or anchored, the owner thereof shall cause such vessel or craft to be moved upon notification from, and within the time specified by, the District Engineer.
(a)-(b) [Reserved]
(c) No vessel shall moor or anchor to any structure of the United States without the consent of the District Engineer, U.S. Army, in charge of the locality, or his authorized agent.
(d) No vessel shall moor or anchor in or along any improved channel or basin in such manner as to interfere with improvement or maintenance operations therein. Whenever in the opinion of the District Engineer any vessel is so moored or anchored, the owner thereof shall cause said vessel to be moved upon notification from and within the time specified by said District Engineer.
(a)-(b) [Reserved]
(c) No vessel shall moor or anchor to any structure of the United States without the consent of the District Engineer, U.S. Army, in charge of the locality, or his authorized agent.
(d) No vessel shall moor or anchor in or along any improved channel or basin in such manner as to interfere with improvement or maintenance operations therein. Whenever in the opinion of the District Engineer any vessel is so moored or anchored, the owner thereof shall cause said vessel to be moved upon notification from and within the time specified by said District Engineer.
(a) The term “canal” when used in this section will mean all of the Black Rock Waterway, including Black Rock Lock, and all of the lands, piers, buildings, and other appurtenances acquired by letters patent from the State of New York, or constructed for the use of the waterway; the southerly limit thereof being at the southerly end of Bird Island Pier, and the northerly limit being at the downstream end of the guide pier, Black Rock Lock, a length of 3.7 miles.
(b) The canal and all of its appurtenances and the use, administration and navigation thereof shall be in charge of the District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, in charge of the locality, or his authorized agents.
(c) The movement of all vessels, boats, or other floating things in the canal shall be under the direction of the authorized agents of the District Engineer in charge, and their orders and instructions must be obeyed.
(d) For passage through the canal, vessels or boats belonging to the U.S. Government shall have precedence over all others.
(e) All registered vessels or boats must pass through the canal in order of their arrival at the canal limits, unless otherwise directed in accordance with this section.
(f) [Reserved]
(g) No vessel shall pass or approach within
(h) No vessel or boat shall anchor in or moor along the canal except at localities specially designated by the District Engineer or his agent; and no business, trading, or landing of freight or baggage, except such articles as may be readily carried in the hand, will be allowed on or over the canal lands or structures, without the permission of the District Engineer or his agent.
(i) No person or operator of a vessel in the Black Rock Canal, lock or approaching channels shall throw or discharge or permit to be thrown or discharged any solid material of any kind or any petroleum product of any kind into the canal, lock or appurtenant waters.
(j) All vessels and tows shall be navigated with care so as not to strike or disturb the channel buoys or channel markers. If a buoy or other channel marker is accidentally struck, damaged or displaced, the fact shall be reported immediately to the Black Rock Lock, foot of Bridge Street, Buffalo, N.Y., telephone 876-5454.
(k) Ferry Street Bridge: The clearheadroom under the bridge at low water datum is 17.3 feet for a width of 86 feet from the pivot pier, thence decreasing to 12.3 feet at the left (westerly) abutment.
(1) All vessels and boats which cannot pass under the bridge shall, on approaching the bridge, reduce speed sufficiently to enable them to come to a dead stop, without touching the bridge, in case the movable span cannot be lifted. If the wind is dangerously strong, passage of the bridge shall not be attempted by large vessels without the aid of a tug or tugs.
(2) Vessels and boats bound north shall have the right-of-way and priority for passage through the bridge over those bound south.
(3) All vessels and boats desiring passage through the bridge shall signal therefor by one long and two short whistle blasts.
(4) Upon receiving the opening signal, the bridge operator shall answer by giving the same signal on the bridge whistle and he shall then proceed at once to lift the bridge.
(5) In case the bridge cannot be lifted, for any cause, the bridge operator shall answer a vessel signal by giving five short whistle blasts; and the vessel shall then be stopped until the bridge is ready to be lifted, when the bridge operator shall give the whistle signal for passage and the vessel may proceed.
(6) In case the bridge is disabled so that it cannot be lifted for one-half hour or more pending repairs, red flags will be displayed on the bridge in daytime and two red lantern lights, one above the other, at night; and when such signals are displayed no vessel or boat shall signal for or attempt passage through the bridge.
(l) Radio control of vessel movement in Black Rock Canal. (1) The movement of vessels in the Black Rock Canal will be controlled by radio communication between the Black Rock Lock and the vessels desiring to use the canal. Vessels will not be permitted to meet or pass in the channel of restricted width between the southerly end of Bird Island (approximately 3,500 feet northerly along the canal from the North Breakwater South End Light) and the International Railway Bridge near the southerly entrance to the Black Rock Lock. Vessels less than 150 feet in length and tugs towing a single barge under 150 feet in length are not to be included in this special condition. In addition to the control of vessel movements in the restricted section of the canal, radio communications will also be utilized to facilitiate the passage of vessels through the entire canal and the Black Rock Lock.
(2) Radio communication will be the only means of control of vessel traffic in the canal in order to prevent a meeting or passing of vessels in the restricted area, and therefore it is mandatory that all vessels over 150 feet in length and tugs towing a barge or barges over 150 feet in combined length of tow be equipped with radio communication equipment operating on designated frequencies. Any vessel lacking such equipment will not be permitted to enter the canal unless arrangements are made with the Black Rock Lock by land telephone to 876-5454 or marine ship-to-shore facilities immediately before entering the canal.
(3) The Black Rock Lock radio communication equipment operates on VHF(FM) frequencies as follows: VHF – 156.8 Mcs – Channel 16 – Safety and Calling, VHF – 156.7 Mcs – Channel 14 – Working; VHF – 156.6 Mcs – Channel 12 Working. A listening watch is maintained on VHF Channel 16.
(4) In order that positive control may be maintained it is mandatory that the following procedures be followed in communicating by radio with the Black Rock Lock:
(i) Vessels desiring to enter the Black Rock Canal from either the Buffalo Outer Harbor or the Buffalo River shall call the Black Rock Lock on VHF Channel 16 or by land telephone approximately 15 minutes before the estimated time of arrival at Buffalo Harbor Traffic Lighted Bell Buoy 1 located at latitude N. 42°50.1′ and longitude W. 78°55.4′. Information to be furnished the Black Rock Lock Operator should include the name of the vessel, position, destination, length, draft (forward and aft) and the type of cargo. A second call shall be made to the lock when the vessel is abreast of the Buffalo Harbor Light on the southerly end of the detached West Breakwater. Information furnished the vessel by the Lock Operator will assure the vessel operator of the proper time to enter the Black Rock Canal with a view to safety and minimum delay.
(ii) Vessels desiring to enter the Black Rock Canal from either the Buffalo Outer Harbor or the Buffalo River shall call the Black Rock Lock on VHF Channel 16 or by land telephone to 876-5454 immediately before departing a dock and again when abreast of the North Breakwater South End Light on the southerly end of the North Breakwater.
(iii) In any radio communication from a vessel to the Black Rock Lock, and VHF(FM) frequencies will be utilized.
(iv) In any radio communication from a vessel to the Black Rock Lock, the VHF (FM) frequencies will be utilized if available in preference to the MF (AM) frequencies.
(v) When an initial radio contact has been made with the Black Rock Lock the vessel entering the canal shall maintain a standby watch at the radio until the passage through the canal and lock is completed.
(vi) Failure to comply with the foregoing procedures could result in considerable delay to a vessel and possibly in a collision between vessels in the restricted section of the canal.
(m) Black Rock Lock. All vessels and boats desiring to use the lock shall signal by two long and two short whistle blasts.
(1) Northbound vessels and boats shall not be brought to within less than 300 feet of the upper lock gates, nor shall southbound vessels be brought to within less than 200 feet of the lower lock gates, until the lock is made ready and the lockmaster in charge signals the vessel to enter the lock.
(2) Vessels and boats shall not moor to the approach walls of the lock at either end, for any other purpose than waiting for lockage, except by direction or permission of the lockmaster.
(3) Commercial vessels will receive preference in passage through the locks. Small vessels such as row, sail, and motor boats, bent on pleasure only, will be passed through the lock in company with commercial vessels when small vessels can be safely accommodated or in the absence of commercial vessels may be passed through the lock individually or together in one lockage on the hour if northbound and on the half hour if southbound. However, commercial vessels will receive preference which could delay the passage of pleasure craft. Pleasure craft will not be permitted to pass through the lock with vessels carrying inflammable cargo. Vessels and other large boats when in the lock shall fasten one head line and one spring line to the snubbing posts on the lock walls, and the lines shall not be cast off until the signal is given by the lockmaster for the boats to leave the lock.
(4) Vessels and boats will be passed through the lock in order of their arrival except that the lockmaster may order a small vessel to lock through in company with another vessel, irrespective of the former’s order of arrival.
(5) All vessels and boats shall be maneuvered with great care so as not to strike any part of the lock walls, or any gate or appurtenance thereto, or machinery for operating the gates, or the walls protecting the lock approaches.
(6) Vessels and boats shall not enter or leave until the lock gates are fully in their recesses, and the lockmaster has given direction for starting.
(7) [Reserved]
(8) Trespass on lock property is strictly prohibited. However, in that portion of the Black Rock Canal lying between the International Railway Bridge and the northerly end of the westerly lower guide pier, the following conditions shall apply to the embarking or disembarking of crew members or passengers of a vessel transiting the lock:
(i) Only the master or mate and two or three linesmen will be permitted to go ashore from transiting vessels and then only for normal operations and business incident to the transit. A maximum of only four (4) men will be permitted to go ashore from any one ship.
(ii) No crew members will be permitted to board a ship at the locks unless previously requested in writing by the master or owners, and approved by canal authorities.
(iii) No crew member may leave a ship while it is in transit in the lock or canal unless certified in advance as an emergency by the vessel master and approved by canal authorities.
(iv) No guest passengers will be permitted to either board or disembark at the canal or locks.
(9) Schedule of Seasonal Operation:
(i) March 23 through June 14 – 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., daily.
(ii) June 15 through September 6-24 hours, daily.
(iii) September 7 through November 30 – 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., daily.
(iv) December 1 through March 22 – 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., daily. During the navigation season the hours may be extended by the district engineer, depending on conditions and the need for lockage service. Public notices will be issued announcing the opening and closing dates at least 10 days in advance of such dates.
(10) Non-operational hours lockings. In addition to the above schedule of operating hours, commercial vessels may be locked through during non-operational hours with prior arrangements made through the U.S. Army Engineer District, Buffalo. Requests for non-operational hours lockings shall be made at least 24 hours in advance by calling (716) 876-5454, extension 2284 or by radio as described in paragraph (l) of this section, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except holidays. Requests shall include the approximate time of arrival and the name and call letters of the vessel or, if the vessel is not equipped to receive radio messages, a telephone number at which messages may be received for the vessel. If a requested lockage must be delayed, prompt notification shall be given by telephone or radio.
(a)-(b) [Reserved]
(c) No vessel shall moor or anchor to any structure of the United States without the consent of the District Engineer, U.S. Army, in charge of the locality, or his authorized agent.
(d) No vessel shall moor or anchor in or along any improved channel or basin in such manner as to interfere with improvement or maintenance operations therein. Whenever in the opinion of the District Engineer any vessel is so moored or anchored, the owner thereof shall cause said vessel to be moved upon notification from and within the time specified by said District Engineer.
(a)-(c) [Reserved]
(d) Vessels shall observe the following rule in mooring to the breakwater: The first self-propelled vessel stopping at the harbor for shelter will proceed to the upstream end of the breakwater and moor along either side of it. All similar vessels entering later will place themselves in a compact position close to those preceding them. Passenger vessels will, in general, have preference as to location of moorage. Sailing craft will so locate themselves that they will not lie in the way of other vessels entering the harbor. All vessels of every description will place themselves so as not to interfere with any work of reconstruction or repair that may be in progress at the time.
(e) The use of chains in making fast to the breakwater is prohibited. Lines must be attached to the snubbing posts only, and outboard anchors taken in.
(f) Vessels with other craft in tow will, if practicable, at once, moor them compactly along the breakwater, either taking in the towlines or placing the slack in them upon the breakwater in such a manner as not to interfere with other vessels. If necessary to moor alongside of other vessels moored to the breakwater, the towlines shall be taken in or disposed of in such a manner as not to interfere with the departure of vessels moored between them and the breakwater.
(g) Vessels of every description mooring to the breakwater, must place suitable fenders between themselves and the breakwater to protect the timber walings on the breakwater from damage.
(h) The unloading of freight of any class upon the breakwater is expressly prohibited, except in accordance with special permission from the said District Engineer or his representative.
(i) Each and every vessel made fast to the breakwater, or anchored in the harbor without a line made fast to the shore or shore dock, must have at least one experienced person upon it during the entire time said vessel is thus moored in the harbor.
(a) Sacramento Deep Water Ship Channel Barge Lock and Approach Canals; use, administration and navigation – (1) General. The lock, its approach channels and all its appurtenances, including the highway and railroad bridge, shall be under the jurisdiction of the District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Sacramento, Federal and Courts Building, 650 Capitol Avenue, Sacramento, California. His designated representative at the locality shall be the lockmaster, who will be in immediate charge of movement and position of all water traffic while at or near the locks and in the barge canals.
(2) Immediate control. The lockmaster shall be charged with the immediate control and management of the lock, bridge, and of the area set aside as the lock area, including the entrance channels. He shall see that all laws, rules and regulations for the use of the lock, bridge and the lock area are duly complied with, to which end he is authorized to give all necessary orders and directions in accordance therewith, both to employees of the Government and to any and every person within the Government lock area. Crews shall render such assistance in the lockage of their craft as may be required by the lockmaster.
(3) Signals – (i) Sound. All craft desiring lockage shall signal by two long blasts followed by two short blasts of the whistle, delivered at a distance of one-half mile from the lock. When the lock is ready for entrance, notice will be given by one long blast from the control house. Permission to leave the lock will be one short blast given by the lockmaster.
(ii) Visual lock traffic signals. Visual signals are located outside of each lock gate on the north guide wall, and will be used in conjunction with sound signals. When the red light is flashing, lock cannot be made ready for entrance immediately, vessel must stand clear. When the amber light is flashing, lock is being made ready, prepare for lockage. When the green light is flashing, lock is ready for entrance, the vessel may proceed with caution into the lock.
(iii) Visual river traffic signals. Visual signals are located on the south bank of the barge canal at the confluence with the Sacramento River and also 1,950 feet upstream on the west bank of the Sacramento River. When the red light is on, a river-bound vessel of a size making passing in the canal hazardous is in the lock or canal. Approaching vessel shall stand clear of canal to permit out-going vessel to pass. When the amber light is on, a river-bound vessel of a size to permit passing is in the lock or canal. Vessel may enter canal with caution. When the green light is on, vessel may enter canal and proceed under full control.
(iv) Radio. The lock is equipped with two-way radio operating on a frequency of 156.60 mc. The frequency is monitored by the lock personnel. Vessels equipped with two-way radio may communicate with the crew operating the lock but communications or signals so received will only augment and not replace the sound and visual signals.
(4) Permissible dimensions of vessels and tows. The lock chamber has a maximum usable width of 86 feet and length of 600 feet. The sill at the harbor end and the bottom of the lock chamber are −13.0 feet elevation, CofE datum, and usually provides a depth of water ranging from 14.0 feet at LLW to 19.4 feet at HHW, with greater depths during large floods in the delta. The sill at the river end is at −10.0 feet elevation, CofE datum, and usually provides a depth of water ranging from 14.6 feet at LLW to 16.8 feet at HHW, with greater depths when the river is high. The depth of water at any time is indicated by staff gages located on the south wall of the lock, riverward and harborward of each lock gate and at the center of the lock. A vessel must not attempt to enter the lock if its beam or length is greater than indicated above, or if its draft exceeds the depth of water indicated by the gages, with due allowance for clearance.
(5) Precedence at lock. Ordinarily, craft will be locked through in order of arrival; however, depending upon whether the lock is full or empty, this precedence may be modified at the discretion of the lockmaster if boats are approaching from the opposite direction and are within reasonable distance of the lock at the time of the approach by the first boat. When several craft are to pass, precedence shall be given as follows:
(6) Loss of turn. Boats that fail to enter the lock with reasonable promptness, after being authorized to do so, shall lose their turn.
(7) Multiple lockage. The lockmaster shall decide whether one or more vessels may be locked through at the same time.
(8) Speed. Vessels shall not be raced or crowded alongside another in the barge canals. When entering the barge canals and lock, speed shall be reduced to a minimum consistent with safe navigation. As a general rule, when a number of vessels are entering the lock, the following vessel shall remain at least 200 feet astern of the vessel ahead. No overtaking, except when directed by lockmaster, will be permitted.
(9) Lockage of small boats – (i) General. The lockage of pleasure boats, skiffs, fishing boats and other small craft will be coordinated with the lockage of commercial craft. If no commercial craft are scheduled to be locked through within a reasonable time, not to exceed one hour after the arrival of the small craft at the lock, separate lockage will be made for such small craft.
(ii) Signals. Small boats desiring to use the lock will sound two long blasts followed by two short blasts of the horn. When the lock is ready for entrance, the lockmaster will notify the small boat by one long blast of the horn; or through the public address system. Permission to leave the lock will be given by the lockmaster by one short blast of the horn.
(10) Mooring in lock. All boats, when in the lock, shall be moored to the fastenings provided for that purpose, by bow and stern lines and other spring lines as may be necessary, and the lines shall not be let go until the signal is given by the lockmaster for the craft to leave the lock.
(11) Waiting for lockage. The mooring or anchoring of boats or other craft in the approaches to the lock, where such mooring will interfere with navigation of the lock is prohibited. All boats, barge tows and other craft to be passed through the lock shall lie in designated waiting areas in such manner as not to interfere with the navigation of the lock or its approaches, and, if a barge tow is to be divided into sections for locking, the sections shall be brought into the lock as directed by the lockmaster. After passing through the lock, the sections shall be reassembled at such a distance from the entrance as not to obstruct or interfere with navigation of the lock or its approaches.
(12) Delay in lock. Boats or barges must not obstruct navigation by unnecessary delays in entering or leaving the lock.
(13) Damage to lock or other structures. The regulations contained in this paragraph shall not relieve the owners and operators of vessels from liability for any damage by their operations to the lock or other structures. They must use great care not to strike any part of the lock, any gate or appurtenance thereto, or machinery for operating the gates, or the walls protecting the banks of the approach canals. All boats with metal nosings or projecting irons, or rough surfaces that would be liable to damage the gates or lock walls, will not be permitted to enter the lock unless provided with suitable buffers and fenders.
(14) Tows. Tows shall be made up outside the canal entrance. All vessels engaged in towing other vessels not equipped with a rudder shall use two tow lines or a bridge and one tow line. If the vessel in tow is equipped with a rudder, one tow line may be used. All tow lines or hawsers must be hauled as short as practicable for safe handling of tows.
(15) Crew to move craft. The pilots in charge of tows and persons in charge of other craft must provide a sufficient number of men to handle lines in mooring craft and to move barges and other craft into and out of the lock easily and promptly.
(16) Handling valves, gates, bridges and machinery. No person, unless authorized by the lockmaster shall open or close any bridge, gate, valve or operate any machinery in connection with the lock; but the lockmaster may, under emergency conditions, call for assistance from the master of any boat using the lock, should such aid be necessary, and when rendering such assistance, the man so employed shall be strictly under the orders of the lockmaster.
(17) Landing of freight. No one shall land freight or baggage on or over the walls of the lock so as in any way to delay or interfere with navigation or the operation of the lock.
(18) Refuse in lock. No material of any kind shall be thrown or discharged into the lock, and no material of any kind shall be deposited into the lock area.
(19) [Reserved]
(20) Persistent violation of regulations. If the owner or pilot of any boat persistently violates the regulations of this paragraph after due notice of the same, lockage may be refused by the lockmaster at the time of the violation or subsequent thereto, as required in the interest of public safety or protection of Government property.
(21) Other laws and regulations. In all other respects, the existing Federal laws, rules and regulations affecting navigable waters of the United States will govern in the use, administration and navigation of the ship channel, lock and its approaches.
(a) Administration – (1) Administrative jurisdiction. The canal and locks and all appurtenances shall be in the charge of the District Engineer, Portland District, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, 319 S.W. Pine Street, Portland, Oregon 97208. The representative of the District Engineer at the locality shall be the lockmaster, who shall receive his orders and instructions from the district engineer. In case of emergency, however, the lockmaster shall have authority to take such steps as may be immediately necessary without waiting for instruction from the district engineer.
(2) Operational jurisdiction. The lock master shall be charged with the immediate control and management of the canal and locks and the grounds and public property pertaining thereto. He shall see that all laws, rules and regulations, for the use of the canal and grounds are duly complied with, to which end he is authorized to give all necessary orders and directions in accordance therewith, both to employees of the Government and to any and every person within the limits of the canal and locks or grounds pertaining thereto, whether navigating the canal or not. In case of the absence or disability of the lock master, his duty shall be performed by an assistant or other employee to be designated by the District Engineer.
(b) Use and navigation – (1) Authority of lock master. The lock master or his assistants shall direct the movement, operation, and moorage of all vessels, boats, rafts, barges, or other floating things using the locks, while they are in the locks, the canal basin, or in either the upstream or downstream lock approaches. Crews of vessels, boats, rafts, barges, or other floating things seeking lockage shall render such assistance as the lock master or his assistants may require.
(2) Signals. All vessels desiring lockage shall signal the same by one long and one short blast of the whistle, delivered at a distance of approximately 1,000 feet from the locks. Requests for lockage may also be made by contacting the lockmaster on VHF-FM radio on channel 14, at WUJ 363, Willamette Falls Locks or by telephone or otherwise notifying the lockmaster’s office. Notice to vessels desiring lockage will be given by red and green traffic lights. Vessels may enter locks on green lights, but must await green signal when lights are red. Permission to leave the lock will be given in the same manner. In the event a failure occurs and the referenced lights cannot be operated, the lockmaster will indicate by voice or by hand or lantern signals when vessels may enter or leave the locks.
(3) Controlling dimensions. For lockage purposes the maximum length of space available is 175 feet and the maximum clear width available is 37 feet. All vessels, boats, rafts, barges, or other floating things of less size than the foregoing dimensions can pass through the locks. The controlling water depth over the intermediate miter sills throughout the locks is 6.5 feet. However, the depth on the sill of the upstream gate at low water is 7.5 feet and over the downstream sill is 8.4 feet. The elevation of the upstream sill is 43.7 feet and of the downstream sill is −6.4 feet, corresponding to the elevations shown on the gages provided at both the downstream and upstream approaches to the locks. All vessels, boats, rafts, barges, and other floating things of which the dimensions or draft are greater than will permit clearing any of the above indicated elevations shall be prohibited from entering the locks. All vessels, boats, rafts, barges or other floating things entering the locks in violation of the above shall be responsible for all resulting damages.
(4) Precedence at locks. Ordinarily the vessel, boat, raft, barge, or other floating thing arriving first at the lock will be locked through first. In the event of a simultaneous approach from opposite directions ascending craft will ordinarily be locked through first. When several boats are to be passed through the locks, the order of precedence shall be as follows:
(i) To boats owned by the United States or employed upon river and harbor improvement work.
(ii) To passenger boats.
(iii) To freight and tow boats.
(iv) To rafts.
(v) To small vessels and pleasure craft.
(5) Entrance to locks. The lock master shall decide whether one or more vessels may be locked through at the same time. No one shall attempt to enter the locks with a vessel or attempt to cause a vessel to enter the locks until he is authorized by the lock master to do so. No one shall take a vessel, or cause a vessel to be taken, within the limits of 500 feet above the upper gate and 300 feet below the lower gate, except for the purpose of entering the locks; and not for this purpose until it has been indicated to him by a proper person by signal that the lock is ready to receive the vessel. All vessels within the foregoing limits must be operated under “slow bell” and be kept constantly under control.
(6) Lockage of small boats. Pleasure boats, skiffs, fishing boats, and other small craft may be passed through the locks singularly, in groups, or as part of a lockage of other than pleasure craft. A continual flow of traffic in one direction will not be interrupted or reversed to accommodate these small pleasure boats. However, any such small boat will be accommodated at such time as the lock master upon receipt of a request for lockage deems such action will not interfere with other traffic. The decision of the lock master shall be final as to whether craft requesting lockage is defined as a pleasure boat.
(7) Use of canal locks. No person, unless authorized by the lockmaster or his assistants, shall open or close any bridge, lock gate, wicket gate, or operate any lock machinery, or in any way interfere with any mechanism or appliance connected with the operation of the locks, nor shall anyone interfere with the employees in the discharge of their duties. The lockmaster or his assistants may call for aid from the persons in charge of any craft, vessel, or raft using the lock should such aid be necessary. Persons rendering such assistance shall be strictly under the orders of the lockmaster. The Government reserves the right to refuse lockage to any vessel, craft or raft when the persons in charge thereof refuse to give such assistance when it is requested. The persons in charge of vessels with tows or rafts, barges and other craft must provide sufficient personnel, lines and towing equipment of sufficient power to insure at all times full control of such tows, rafts, barges and other craft while moving into and through the locks, unless otherwise prearranged with the lockmaster. A copy of these regulations shall be kept on board each vessel regularly engaged in navigating the locks. Copies may be obtained without charge from the lockmaster or from the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, 319 S.W. Pine Street, Post Office Box 2946, Portland, Oregon 97208.
(8) Petroleum vessels. All tankers, barges, and other floating equipment, used for transporting inflammable liquids, either with or without cargo, shall be equipped with fixed timber fenders and, if not so equipped, shall have aboard an adequate number of suitable fenders of timber, rubber, or rope which are to be placed between the vessel and unfendered lock structures. All such barges or other vessels navigating without power within the canal or locks must be assisted by one or more tugs of sufficient power to insure full control at all times whether passing upstream or downstream through the locks with or without cargo.
(9) Mooring in locks. All boats, barges, rafts, and other craft when in the locks shall be moored by head and spring lines and such other lines as may be necessary to the fastenings provided for that purpose; and the lines shall not be unloosed until the signal is given for the vessel to leave the lock.
(10) Mooring while waiting for lockage. The mooring of boats, tows or other craft in the approaches to the locks where such mooring will interfere with navigation or other vessels to or from the locks is prohibited.
(11) Delays. Boats, barges, rafts, or other craft must not obstruct navigation by unnecessary delay in entering or leaving the locks. Vessels failing to enter the locks with reasonable promptness, when signaled to do so, and vessels arriving at the locks with their tows in such shape so as to impede lockage shall forfeit their turn.
(12) Landing of freight. No freight or baggage shall be unloaded on or over the walls of the canal or locks. Freight and baggage consigned to the Willamette Falls locks shall be unloaded only at such places as may be provided for this purpose or as directed by the lock master.
(13) Refuse in canal or locks. No refuse or other material shall be thrown or dumped from vessels into the canal and locks, or deposited in the lock area, or placed on the berm of the canal so that it is liable to be thrown or washed into the waterway. Violations of this paragraph (b)(13) shall be subject to sections 13 and 16 of the River and Harbor Act of March 3, 1899 (33 U.S.C. 407, 411).
(14) Damage to locks or other structures. The regulations contained in this section shall not affect the liability of the owners and operators of vessels for any damage caused by their operations to the locks or other structures. Persons in charge of vessels and log rafts passing through the locks must use great care to prevent the vessels or log rafts from striking any gate or appurtenance thereto. All boats or barges with metal nosings, or projecting irons, or rough surfaces, and log rafts with dragging cables that may damage any part of the lock structures will not be permitted to enter the locks unless said craft are provided with suitable protective buffers and fenders and log rafts are free of loose, dragging cables.
(c) [Reserved]
(d) Trespass. No one shall trespass on the grounds or buildings, and everyone shall be deemed guilty of trespass within the meaning of this paragraph who shall willfully or carelessly damage or disfigure the canal and locks or any part thereof, or any building or appliance on the grounds, or who shall carry on business or trading of any sort, or shall build any fishing stand or lead, or set any fish net within the limits of the reservation, or do any act to or on the grounds or buildings which would be recognized by law as a trespass.
(e) Definitions. Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (b)(6) of this section, whenever such a word as “vessel”, “boat”, “barge”, “raft”, or the like is used in this section, it shall include all types of floating things which may be subject to lockage. Failure to refer specifically to a type of floating thing by its name shall not mean exclusion thereof from applicability of this section.
(a) General. All locks, approach channels, and all lock appurtenances, shall be under the jurisdiction of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, U.S. Army, in charge of the locality. The district engineer may, after issuing a public notice and providing a 30-day opportunity for public comment, set (issue) a schedule for the daily lockage of recreational vessels. Recreational vessels are pleasure boats such a row, sail, or motor boats used for recreational purposes. Commercial vessels include licensed commercial passenger vessels operating on a published schedule or regularly operating in the “for hire” trade. Any recreational schedule shall provide for a minimum of one scheduled recreation lockage upstream and downstream (two lockages) each day. At the discretion of the district engineer, additional lockages may be scheduled. Each schedule and any changes to the schedule will be issued at least 30 days prior to implementation. Prior to issuing any schedule or any change to the schedule, the district engineer will consider all public comments and will evaluate the expected energy situation, water supply, and recreation use of the lock to determine the seasonal need for the schedule or change in schedule. The district engineer’s representative at the locks shall be the project engineer, who shall issue orders and instructions to the lockmaster in charge of the lock. Hereinafter, the term “lockmaster” shall be used to designate the person in immediate charge of the lock at any given time. In case of emergency and on all routine work in connection with the operation of the lock, the lockmaster shall have authority to take action without waiting for instructions from the project engineer.
(b) Lockage control. The Lock Master shall be charged with immediate control and management of the lock, and of the area set aside as the lock area, including the lock approach channels. Upstream and downstream approach channels extend to the end of the wing or the guide wall, whichever is longer. At Bonneville lock the upstream approach channel extends to the mooring tie offs at Fort Rains and the downstream approach channel extends to the downstream tip of Robins Island. The Lock Master shall demand compliance with all laws, rules and regulations for the use of the lock and lock area and is authorized to issue necessary orders and directions, both to employees of the Government or to other persons within the limits of the lock or lock area, whether navigating the lock or not. Use of lock facilities is contingent upon compliance with regulations, Lock Master instructions and the safety of people and property.
(c) Authority of Lock Master. No one shall initiate any movement of any vessel in the lock or approaches except by or under the direction of the Lock Master. (“Vessel” as used herein includes all connected units, tugs, barges, tows, boats or other floating objects.)
(d) Signals – (1) Radio. All locks are equipped with two-way FM radio operating on channel 14, frequency of 156.700 MHz, for both the calling channel and the working channel. Vessels equipped with two-way radio desiring a lockage shall call WUJ 33 Bonneville, WUJ 34 The Dalles, WUJ 35 John Day, WUJ 41 McNary, WUJ 42 Ice Harbor, WUJ 43 Lower Monumental, WUJ 44 Little Goose, or WUJ 45 Lower Granite, at least one-half hour in advance of arrival since the Lock Master is not in constant attendance of the locks. Channel 14 shall be monitored constantly in the vessel pilot house from the time the vessel enters the approach channel until its completion of exit. Prior to entering the lock chamber, the commercial freight or log-tow vessel operator shall report the nature of any cargo, the maximum length, width and draft of the vessel and whether the vessel is in any way hazardous because of its condition or the cargo it carries or has carried.
(2) Pull-cord signal stations. Pull-cord signal stations marked by large instructional signs and located near the end of the upstream and downstream lock entrance walls may be used in place of radios to signal the Lock Master for a lockage.
(3) Entering and exit signals. Signal lights are located outside each lock gate. When the green (go) light is on, all vessels will enter in the sequence prescribed by the Lock Master. When the red (stop) light is on, the lock is not ready for entrance and vessels shall stand clear. In addition to the above visual signals, the Lock Master will signal that the lock is ready for entrance by sounding one long blast on the lock air horn. The Lock Master will signal that the lock is ready for exit by lighting the green exit light and sounding one short blast on the air horn.
(4) Craft lockage-readiness signal. Upon query from Lock Master, a vessel operator will signal when he is properly moored and ready for the lockage to begin.
(e) Permissible dimensions of vessels. Nominal overall dimensions of vessels allowed in the lock chamber are 84 feet wide and 650 feet long. Depth of water in the lock depends upon river levels which may vary from day to day. Staff gauges showing the minimum water level depth over gate sills are located inside the lock chamber near each lock gate and outside the lock chamber near the end of both upstream and downstream guide walls, except at Bonneville where the staff gauges show water levels in feet above MSL and are located on the southern guide walls at the upstream and downstream miter gates. Bonneville’s upstream sill elevation is 51 feet MSL and the downstream sill elevation is −12 feet MSL. Depth over sill at Bonneville is determined by subtracting the sill elevation from the gauge reading. Vessels shall not enter the navigation lock unless the vessel draft is at least one foot less than the water depth over the sill. Information concerning allowable draft for vessel passage through the locks may be obtained from the Lock Master. Minimum lock chamber water level depth is 15 feet except at Ice Harbor where it is 14 feet and at Bonneville where it is 19 feet. When the river flow at Lower Granite exceeds 330,000 cubic feet per second the normal minimum 15-foot depth may be decreased to as little as eight feet.
(f) Precedence at lock. Subject to the order of precedence, the vessel or tow arriving first; at the lock will be locked through first, however, this precedence may be modified at the discretion of the lockmaster. If immediate passage is required, lockage of vessels owned or operated by the United States shall take precedence. The precedence of all other vessels shall be as follows:
(1) When a recreational vessel lockage schedule is in effect, at the appointed time for lockage of recreation craft, recreation craft shall take precedence; however, commercial vessels may be locked through with recreation craft if safety and space permit. At other than the appointed time, the lockage of commercial and tow vessels shall take precedence and recreational craft may (only) lock through with commercial vessels only as provided in paragraph (h) of this section.
(2) If a recreational vessel lockage schedule is not in effect, commercial and tow vessels shall take precedence. Recreational craft may be locked through with commercial craft. If no commercial vessels are scheduled to be locked through within a reasonable time, not to exceed one hour after the arrival of the recreational vessels at the lock, the recreational vessel may be locked through separately. If a combined lockage cannot be arranged, the recreational craft shall be locked through after waiting three commercial lockages.
(g) Loss of turn. Vessels that fail to enter the lock with reasonable promptness, after being authorized to do so, shall lose their turn.
(h) Lockage – (1) Multiple lockage. The Lock Master shall decide whether one or more vessels or tows may be locked through at the same time. Vessels with flammable or highly hazardous cargo will be passed separately from all other vessels. Hazardous materials are described in part 171, title 49, Code of Federal Regulations. Flammable materials are defined in the National Fire Code of the National Fire Protection Association.
(2) Recreational craft. By mutual agreement of (all parties,) the lockmaster and the captains of the vessels involved, recreational vessels may be locked through with commercial vessels. Under the recreational vessel schedule, separate lockage will not be made by recreational vessels except in accordance with the recreational lockage schedule or when circumstances warrant, such as in an emergency. When recreational craft are locked simultaneously with commercial vessels, the recreational vessel will enter the lock chamber after the commercial vessel is secured in the chamber and when practicable will depart while the commercial vessel remains secured.
(3) Special schedules. Recreational boating groups may request special schedules by contacting the district engineer. The schedule for the daily lockage of recreational vessels will indicate the number of boats required for a special schedule and how many days’ notice is required in order to arrange a special schedule.
(i) Mooring in approaches prohibited. Mooring or anchoring in the approaches to the lock is prohibited where such mooring will interfere with navigation.
(j) Waiting for lockage. Vessels waiting for lockage shall wait in the clear outside of the lock approach channel, or contingent upon permission by the Lock Master, may at their own risk, lie inside the approach channel at a place specified by the Lock Master. At Bonneville, vessels may at their own risk, lay-to at the downstream moorage facility on the north shore downstream from the north guide wall provided a 100-foot-wide open channel is maintained.
(k) Mooring in lock. All vessels must be moored within the lock chamber so that no portion of any vessel extends beyond the lines painted on the lock walls. Moorage within the lock chamber will be to floating mooring bits only and will be accomplished in a proper no-slip manner. Small vessels will not be locked with a large vessel unless the large vessel is so moored (two mooring bits) that no lateral movement is possible. The vessel operator will constantly monitor the position of his vessel and his mooring bit ties to assure that there is no fore or aft movement of his vessel and lateral movement is minimized. Propulsion by vessels within the lock chamber will not be permitted during closure operation of a lock chamber gate or as otherwise directed by the Lock Master.
(l) Crew to move craft. During the entire lockage, the vessel operator shall constantly attend the wheelhouse, be aware of the vessel’s position, and monitor radio channel 14 on frequency 156.700 MHz, or otherwise be constantly able to communicate with the Lock Master. At a minimum, vessels shall be as vigilantly manned as if underway.
(m) Speed. Vessels shall be adequately powered to maintain a safe speed and be under control at all times. Vessels shall not be raced or crowded alongside another in the approach channels. When entering the lock, speed shall be reduced to a minimum consistent with safe navigation. As a general rule, when a number of vessels are entering the lock, the following vessel shall remain at least 200 feet astern of the vessel ahead.
(n) Delay in lock. Vessels shall not unnecessarily delay any operation of the locks.
(o) Landing of freight. No freight, baggage, personnel, or passengers shall be landed on or over the walls of the lock, except by permission and direction of the Lock Master.
(p) Damage to lock or other structures. The regulations in this section shall not relieve owners and/or operators of vessels from liability for any damage to the lock or other structures or for the immediate removal of any obstruction. No vessel in less than stable floating condition or having unusual sinking potential shall enter the locks or its approaches. Vessels must use great care not to strike any part of the lock, any gate or appurtenance thereto, or machinery for operating the gates, or the walls protecting the banks of the approach channels. All vessels with projecting irons, or rough surfaces which may damage the gates or lock walls, shall not enter the lock unless provided with suitable buffers and fenders. Vessels having chains, lines, or drags either hanging over the sides or ends or dragging on the bottom for steering or other purposes will not be permitted to pass.
(q) Tows. Prior to a lockage, the person in charge of a vessel towing a second vessel by lines shall, at a safe distance outside of the incoming approach channel, secure the second vessel to the towing vessel and keep it secured during the entire course of a lockage and until safely clear of the outgoing approach channel.
(r) Violation of regulations. Any violation of these regulations may subject the owner or master of any vessel to any or all of the following: (1) Penalties prescribed by law of the U.S. Government (33 U.S.C. part 1); (2) Report of violation to the titled owner of the vessel; (3) Report of violation to the U.S. Coast Guard; (4) Refusal of lockage at the time of violation.
(s) Refuse in locks. No material of any kind shall be thrown or discharged into the lock, or be deposited in the lock area. Vessels leaking or spilling cargo will be refused lockage and suitable reports will be made to the U.S. Coast Guard. Deck cargo will be so positioned so as not to be subject to falling overboard.
(t) Handling valves, gates, bridges, and machinery. No person, unless authorized by the Lock Master, shall open or close any bridge, gate, valve, or operate any machinery in connection with the lock. However, the Lock Master may call for assistance from the master of any vessel using the lock, should such aid be necessary; and when rendering such assistance, the person so employed shall be directly under the orders of the Lock Master. Masters of vessels refusing to provide such assistance when it is requested of them may be denied the use of the lock by the Lock Master.
(u)-(v) [Reserved]
(w) Restricted areas. No vessel shall enter or remain in any restricted area at any time without first obtaining permission from the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, U.S. Army, or his duly authorized representative.
(1) At Bonneville Lock and Dam. The water restricted to all vessels, except Government vessels, are described as all waters of the Columbia River and Bradford Slough within 1,000 feet above the first powerhouse, spillway, and second powerhouse (excluding the new navigation lock channel) and all waters below the first powerhouse, spillway, second powerhouse, and old navigation lock. This is bounded by a line commencing from the westernmost tip of Robins Island on the Oregon side of the river and running in a South 65 degrees West direction a distance of approximately 2,100 feet to a point 50 feet upstream of the Hamilton Island Boat Ramp on the Washington shore. Signs designate the restricted areas. The approach channel to the new navigation lock is outside the restricted area.
(2) At the Dalles Dam. The waters restricted to only Government vessels are described as all downstream waters other than those of the navigation lock downstream approach channel which lie between the Wasco County Bridge and the project axis including those waters between the powerhouse and the Oregon shore and all upstream waters other than those of the navigation lock upstream approach channel which lie between the project axis and a line projected from the upstream end of the navigation lock guide wall to the junction of the concrete structure with the earth fill section of the dam near the upstream end of the powerhouse.
(3) At the John Day Dam. The waters restricted to only Government vessels are described as all of the waters within a distance of about 1,000 yards above the dam lying south of the navigation channel leading to the lock and bounded by a line commencing at the upstream end of the guide wall, and running in a direction 54°01′37″ true for a distance of 771 yards, thence 144°01′37″ true across the river to the south shoreline. The downstream limit is marked by orange and white striped monuments on the north and south shores.
(4) At McNary Lock and Dam. The waters restricted to all vessels, except to Government vessels, are described as all waters commencing at the upstream end of the Oregon fish ladder thence running in the direction of 39°28′ true for a distance of 540 yards; thence 7°49′ true for a distance of 1,078 yards; thence 277°10′ for a distance of 468 yards to the upstream end of the navigation lock guidewall. The downstream limits commence at the downstream end of the navigation lock guidewall thence to the south (Oregon) shore at right angles and parallel to the axis of the dam. Signs designate the restricted areas.
(5) At Ice Harbor Lock and Dam. The waters restricted to all vessels, except Government vessels, are described as all waters within a distance of about 800 yards upstream of the dam lying south of the navigation lock and bound by the line commencing at the upstream end of the guidewall, and running a direction of 91°10′ true for a distance of 575 yards; thence 162°45′ to the south shore, a distance of about 385 yards. The downstream limits commencing at the downstream end of the guidewall; thence to the south shore, at right angles and parallel to the axis of the dam. Signs designate the restricted areas.
(6) At Lower Monumental Lock and Dam. The waters restricted to all vessels, except Government vessels, are described as all waters commencing at the upstream of the navigation lock guidewall and running in a direction of 46°25′ true for a distance of 344 yards; thence 326°19′ true for a distance of 362 yards; thence 243°19′ true for a distance of 218 yards; thence 275°59′ true to the north shore a distance of about 290 yards. The downstream limits commence at the downstream end of the navigation lock guidewall; thence to the north shore, at right angles and parallel to the axis of the dam. Signs designate the restricted areas.
(7) At Little Goose Lock and Dam. The waters restricted to all vessels, except Government vessels, are described as all waters commencing at the upstream of the navigation lock guidewall and running in a direction of 60°37′ true for a distance of 676 yards; thence 345°26′ true for a distance of 494 yards; thence 262°37′47″ true to the dam embankment shoreline. The downstream limits commence 512 yards downstream and at right angles to the axis of the dam on the south shore; thence parallel to the axis of the dam to the north shore. Signs designate the restricted areas.
(8) At Lower Granite Lock and Dam. The waters restricted to all vessels, except Government vessels, are described as all waters commencing at the upstream of the navigation lock guidewall thence running in the direction of 131°31′ true for a distance of 608 yards; thence 210°46′ true to the south shore, a distance of about 259 yards. The downstream limits commence at the downstream end of navigation lock guidewall; thence to the south shore, at right angles and parallel to the axis of the dam. Signs designate the restricted areas.
§ 207.750 Puget Sound Area, Wash.
(a) Waterway connecting Port Townsend and Oak Bay; use, administration and navigation – (1) Works to which the regulations apply. The “canal grounds” when used in this paragraph shall mean that area between the south end of the jetties in Oak Bay and the northern end of the dredge channel approximately 400 yards northwest of Port Townsend Canal Light. The “canal” is the water lying between these limits and the banks containing the same.
(2) [Reserved]
(3) Trading, landing, etc. No business, loading, or landing of freight or baggage will be allowed on or over the canal piers or bulkheads.
(4) Refuse. No person shall throw material of any kind into the canal.
(5) [Reserved]
(6) Obstructions. On the canal’s being obstructed by a vessel, raft, or other craft, by sinking, grounding, or otherwise, the District Engineer, Seattle, shall be notified by telephone or telegraph as soon as possible by the person in charge of the obstructing vessel, raft, or craft.
(b) Lake Washington Ship Canal; use, administration and navigation – (1) Definitions. The term “canal” as used in the regulations in this paragraph shall include the water area in the locks and the channel and adjacent waters from a point 5,500 feet northwest of the Burlington Northern, Inc. railway bridge to the east end of the channel opposite Webster Point, Lake Washington. The term “canal grounds” shall include all grounds set aside for the use of the canal or occupied in its construction.
(2) Supervision. The canal and all its appurtenances shall be under the supervision of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Seattle. The District Engineer will detail as many assistants as may be necessary for the efficient operation of the canal and the enforcement of the regulations in this paragraph. The movement of all vessels and other floating things in the canal and approaches thereto shall be under the direction of the District Engineer and his authorized assistants. All orders given under the regulations to any master or person in charge of any vessel, raft, or other watercraft by the District Engineer or his authorized assistants, either in person or through any canal operative, shall be acknowledged and obeyed. Failure to see, understand, or comply with signals or instructions shall constitute a violation of the regulations. Any person refusing to comply with the regulations or any orders given in pursuance thereof may be denied the privileges of the canal or canal grounds.
(3) Speed. To avoid damage to other vessels and to property along the shores, all vessels shall proceed at reduced speed in the canal as follows:
(i) From the west entrance of the Lake Washington Ship Canal to the western end of the west guide pier of the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, and from the east end of the easternmost guide pier of said Locks to the white flashing dolphin located south of Webster Point on Lake Washington, including all of Salmon Bay, Lake Union, Portage Bay, and Union Bay, it shall be unlawful for any person to operate any watercraft or vessel at a speed in excess of 7 nautical miles per hour within 200 feet of any shoreline, pier, restricted area or shore installation.
(ii) From the western end of the aforesaid west guide pier to the eastern end of the aforesaid east guide pier at said Locks, it shall be unlawful for any person to operate any watercraft or vessel at a speed in excess of 4 nautical miles per hour.
Signs are located along the canal to indicate permissible speeds.
(4) Traffic signal lights. In addition to the lock signal lights described in paragraph (g)(5)(ii) of this section, a red light, and a green light are installed on the west side of the Ballard Bridge, on the east side of the Fremont Bridge, 1,000 feet west of the Montlake Bridge, and 1,000 feet east of the Montlake Bridge, for the guidance of vessels approaching the sections of the canal between Salmon Bay and Lake Union and between Lake Union and Lake Washington, respectively. Vessels of 300 gross tons and over and all vessels with tows, except as hereinafter provided, shall not pass the red lights. The green lights will indicate that vessels may proceed. Vessels of less than 300 gross tons without tows may disregard these signals, but they shall travel at very slow speed when passing other vessels. Vessels of 300 gross tons and over and vessels with tows, except logs, whose destination is easterly between the Ballard Bridge and a point 2,500 feet east of the Ballard Bridge, may pass the red signals on the Ballard Bridge, provided, such passage will not interfere with approaching traffic.
(5) Approaching and passing through locks – (i) Signals for locks. Vessels with tows desiring to use the locks shall so indicate by two long and three short blasts of a whistle, horn, or megaphone. All other vessels desiring to use the locks shall so indicate by two long and two short blasts.
The term “long blasts” means blasts of four seconds duration, and the term “short blasts” means blasts of one second duration. Signals for the opening of drawbridges are prescribed in § 117.795 of chapter I.
(ii) Lock signal lights. Red and green signal lights are installed on the guide pier west of the Burlington Northern, Inc. railway bridge below the locks. The green light will indicate to vessels bound for the large lock that the lock has been made ready. If the red light is burning, vessels bound for the large lock shall moor at the pier. Vessels bound for the small lock shall be guided into the small lock by traffic signals thereon. The masters of all vessels approaching the locks from Puget Sound shall be alert to receive and shall immediately comply with instructions by voice or signal from the employee on the west pier.
(iii) Precedence at locks. All vessels approaching the locks shall stop at the points indicated by signs placed on the canal piers or as directed by a lockman until ordered to proceed into the lock. Unless otherwise directed by the District Engineer or his authorized assistants, vessels owned or operated by the United States or the City of Seattle and passenger vessels operating on a regular schedule shall have precedence over all others in passing through the locks. Registered merchant vessels shall have precedence over pleasure craft, which shall pass through in the order of their arrival at the locks, and both shall have precedence over vessels towing floated timber or logs. Tows of floated timber and logs may be denied the use of the locks during certain hours when both locks are busy passing other traffic. However, advance notice will be given towboat companies as to the periods when log tows will be denied lockage.
(iv) Entering locks. Masters of vessels shall exercise the greatest care when entering either lock. The forward movement of vessels while taking position in the locks shall be very slow, and boats entering the small lock shall reduce their speed to not more than two and one-half miles per hour when within 200 feet of the outer gate and come to practically a full stop before entering the lock so that in case the engine mechanism fails to operate properly the momentum of the boat may be stopped easily by its lines. The masters of vessels entering either lock from either direction shall be alert to receive and shall immediately comply with instructions by voice or signal from the lock attendants.
(v) Mooring in locks. Vessels entering the locks shall be equipped with adequate lines, at least 50 feet in length being required fore and aft. While in the large lock vessels and rafts will be moored at the top of the lock wall. While in the small lock vessels shall be moored to the floating mooring wall. Lines shall not be released until the signal has been given by the lock force to leave the lock, after which there shall be no delay in leaving. All vessels not equipped to handle tie-up lines with power winches shall be equipped with suitable mooring lines of manila, or other suitable fiber, of sufficient size and strength to hold the vessel against the currents to be met within the lock chamber. The use of wire rope for tie-up by vessels not equipped to handle such lines with power winches is prohibited. Vessels may be denied the use of the locks if their lines are not in good condition, or if the mooring bits on barges are not accessible or are not equipped to prevent lines from slipping off when the water is lowered in the lock. All vessels entering the locks should have, in addition to the master, at least one person on deck to handle lines. Mates and deckhands, when preparing to moor within the lock chambers, should not throw heavy mooring lines at the lockmen on the walls, but should wait for a heaving lie to be passed to them unless otherwise directed. All towboat crews, while locking or moving a tow out of the lock chamber, should station themselves so as to preclude the possibility of being injured by the parting of cable or lines under strain. Persons attempting to take vessels through the locks without assistance on deck may be required to wait until the lock is clear of other traffic before passing through. All operators of vessels are especially cautioned to use extreme care while crowded in the locks to avoid accident or fire on their boats. Under no circumstances will small craft, such as rowboats, launches and houseboats, or any other type of pleasure boats, be locked through with barges used for carrying any type of petroleum product or other hazardous material. At the discretion of the lockmaster, small craft as described above may be locked through with barge tows containing other than dangerous material. Operators of small vessels and larger vessels operating in the proximity of each other shall be alert to the danger arising from the limited maneuverability of the larger vessels, and shall exercise all precautions to prevent accident.
(6) Damage to locks or other structures. (i) The regulations in this paragraph shall not affect the liability of the owners and operators of vessels for any damage caused by their operations to the locks or other structures. The sides and corners of all vessels and rafts passing through the locks should be free from spikes or projections of any kind which might damage the locks or other structures. Vessels with appurtenances or projections which might damage the locks or other structures shall be fitted with adequate fenders. Lockage of leaking vessels or vessels with overhanging loads may be refused. Such barge or craft shall be moored in a location outside of the channel approach to the lock so as to not interfere with passing navigation. Vessels of unusual dimensions, or other characteristics which, in the opinion of the lockmaster, pose a threat to the integrity or safety of the locks or canal will be refused passage until written permission to pass is provided by the District Engineer. Sufficient written data and drawings shall be provided the District Engineer that an engineering determination can be made as to the safety of the vessel. The District Engineer shall have the right to inspect any such vessels prior to passage. The operators of all vessels shall use care to avoid striking the guide walls or other structures pertaining to the canal.
(ii) In the interest of safety and fire prevention, all woven rope fenders used with barges carrying flammable cargo should be water-soaked or otherwise fireproofed prior to entering the lock approaches.
(iii) Burning fenders should be dropped overboard immediately rather than being placed on the deck of a barge or towboat.
(iv) A minimum of one man with a portable fender shall be stationed at the head end of every tow of hazardous cargo and at the aft if the lockmaster so directs so as to protect the lock and guide walls from damage while entering or departing the lock structures.
(v) All cylinder or containers holding gases under pressure, or any other chemical or substance, shall be securely fastened to the hull of the vessel to prevent their rolling overboard into the lock chamber and becoming a hazard.
(vi) All containers holding paint, gasoline or other volatile materials shall be securely fastened with tight-fitting covers. To preclude a concentration of potentially explosive vapors, no paint will be allowed to be applied to the exterior of vessel hulls, houses, machinery, or other equipment while the vessels are in the lock chamber.
(vii) All hatches of tank barges must be closed prior to entering lock. Tank barges with open hatch or hatches will be denied lockage.
(viii) No smoking will be permitted aboard vessels with cargoes of fuel or explosives.
(ix) All vessels carrying hazardous cargoes shall so be identified with the lockmaster. They shall be in compliance with Department of Transportation (U.S. Coast Guard) regulations (CFR title 46, parts 30 thru 40, parts 146 thru 154, and 49 CFR parts 171 thru 179 and shall accordingly carry required markings. All DOT safety regulations for transit of hazardous cargoes shall be adhered to, whether or not specifically cited or duplicated herein.
(7) [Reserved]
(8) Rafts. (i) No log raft exceeding 700 feet in length or 76 feet in width shall pass through the canal. Boom sticks shall be smooth, with rounded ends, and securely tied together with cables, chains, or log swifters to prevent the raft from spreading while in the lock. Rafts containing logs that do not float above water for their entire length, or are in danger of being submerged when they enter fresh water, shall not be towed in the canal until such logs are securely fastened so as to prevent their escape from the raft.
(ii) Whenever required, log rafts passing in through the lock will be given a number that shall be fastened on one of the logs in the raft. This number will identify the raft and shall not be removed until the logs are used.
(iii) Two floats are maintained in Shilshole Bay near the entrance of the canal channel to facilitate the handling of logs in the canal. Rafts bound for the canal may be moored at one of these floats, only the portion of the raft that is to be taken through at a single lockage being brought into the canal. The remainder of the raft may be left at the float until the first portion has been towed to its destination above the lock.
(9) Tows. All vessels engaged in towing shall use tow lines of the least practicable length and shall have full control of their tows at all times. Towing more than one craft abreast is forbidden if the total width of the tow, including the towboat, exceeds 70 feet.
(10) Obstructing navigation. (i) All vessels and tows passing through the canal shall be kept as close as practicable to the center or, when safer, to the right side of the waterway, except when passing other craft or preparing to moor at a pier or wharf. Slowly moving log rafts, tows, or vessels shall, whenever practicable, pull out of the way when meeting other vessels or when other traffic proceeding in the same direction desires to pass. Vessels are forbidden to obstruct the canal in any way or to delay by slow passage through the canal the progress of other vessels. Small and readily maneuverable vessels operating in the vicinity of larger, less maneuverable vessels shall, in all cases, keep clear and operate with caution in order that the larger vessels may maintain safe steerage way and that hazards to all vessels may be reduced. All vessels shall operate with extreme caution and movements shall be made only when adequate precautions for the safety of other vessels and property are being effectively employed.
(ii) The placing of logs, vessels, or other floating objects within the limits of the dredged channels or anywhere in the canal where they may interfere with navigation to or from piers or industrial plants is prohibited.
(11) Turning. Vessels exceeding 100 feet in length shall not turn around, or attempt to turn around, in the concrete revetted portions of the canal at the Fremont Cut or Portage Cut sections of the canal.
(12) Excessive working of propellers or engines. Excessive working of the propellers of a vessel for purposes of testing or for other purposes when this creates objectionable or dangerous currents in the canal is forbidden. In case of grounding, the rapid or strong working of the vessel’s engines is forbidden.
(13) Landing or mooring. No business, trading, or landing of passengers, freight, or baggage will be allowed on or over the canal piers or lock walls, or over the piers or grounds forming a part of the canal or its appurtenances. All persons in charge of or employed on any boat are prohibited from landing or mooring such boat at any of the canal piers, unless in transit through the canal or specially permitted to do so by the District Engineer or his authorized assistants.
(14) Deposit of refuse. The deposit, either from watercraft or from the shore, of any oil or refuse matter in the canal or upon the canal grounds is prohibited, nor shall water discharged from the side of a vessel be allowed to spill on the lock wall.
(15) Aids to navigation. Persons in charge of log rafts or other tows, and the masters of vessels and boats using the canal, shall keep a careful watch when passing buoys or other aids to navigation and promptly report to the District Engineering or his authorized assistants any displacement or damage to such aids.
Aids to navigation and other related data are shown on Nautical Chart No. 18447 published by the National Ocean Survey.
(16) Operation of salt water barrier in the large lock of the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. (i) A salt water barrier is installed across the east end of the large lock. This barrier, while in the depressed position, reduces the depth of the water available at the east end of this chamber from 36 feet to 33.75 feet at low lake elevation (20 feet above MLLW). In the raised position, the depth of water will be reduced to 16 feet. In comparison, the depth of water available for navigation at the west end of the large lock chamber is 29 feet at mean lower low water. The purpose of this barrier is to reduce salt water intrusion into Lake Washington through normal operations of the locks.
(ii) The least depth of water available over the barrier when raised will be shown on signs placed near the ends of the guide piers to the large lock. A yellow light mounted on these signs will be lighted only while the barrier is in a raised position.
(iii) Vessels transiting the lock from east to west having draft requirements that exceed the water depth available over the barrier will advise the lockmaster by sounding one long and two short blasts of a horn or whistle. When the yellow light is extinguished on the signboard, the operator of the vessel may assume the barrier has been lowered.
(iv) Vessels transiting the lock from west to east having draft requirements that exceed the depth available over the intrusion barrier will advise the lockmaster by sounding one long and two short blasts of a horn or whistle. A yellow light mounted on a standard on the south lock wall and opposite the intrusion barrier will be lighted only when the barrier is in the raised position.
(v) It shall be the responsibility of the vessel operator to satisfy himself of the position of this barrier prior to passing over it.
(c) West Waterway, Seattle Harbor; navigation. (1) The movement of vessels of 250 gross tons or over and all vessels with tows of any kind through the narrow section of West Waterway between the bend at Fisher’s Flour Mill dock and the bend at the junction of East Waterway with Duwamish Waterway, and through the draws of the City of Seattle and Northern Pacific Railway Company bridges crossing this narrow section, shall be governed by red and green traffic signal lights mounted on the north and south sides of the west tower of the City Light power crossing at West Spokane Street.
(2) Two green lights, one vertically above the other, displayed ahead of a vessel, shall indicate that the waterway is clear. Two red lights, one vertically above the other, displayed ahead of a vessel, shall indicate that the waterway is not clear.
(3) A vessel approaching the narrow section and drawbridges from either end of the waterway shall give one long blast of a whistle and shall not enter the narrow section until green lights are displayed.
(4) One vessel may follow another vessel in either direction, but the channel shall not be kept open in the same direction for an unreasonable time if a vessel is waiting at the other end.
(5) Tugs, launches, and small craft shall keep close to one side of the channel when vessels or boats with tows are passing.
(6) All craft shall proceed with caution. The display of a green light is not a guarantee that the channel is clear of traffic, and neither the United States nor the City of Seattle will be responsible for any damage to vessels or other property which may be chargeable to mistakes in the operation of the signal lights or to their failure to operate.
(a) Definitions. For the purpose of this regulation the following terms are defined:
(1) Navigable waters of the United States means those waters of the United States that are subject to the ebb and flow of the tide shoreward to the mean high water mark, and/or are presently used, or have been used in the past, or may be susceptible to use to transport interstate or foreign commerce. (See 33 CFR part 329 for a more complete definition of this term.)
(2) Offenses and Violations mean:
(i) Failure to submit a required report.
(ii) Failure to provide a timely, accurate, and complete report.
(iii) Failure to submit monthly listings of idle vessels or vessels in transit.
(iv) Failure to submit a report required by the lockmaster or canal operator.
(3) Leased or chartered vessel means a vessel that is leased or chartered when the owner relinquishes control of the vessel through a contractual agreement with a second party for a specified period of time and/or for a specified remuneration from the lessee. Commercial movements on an affreightment basis are not considered a lease or charter of a particular vessel.
(4) Person or entity means an individual, corporation, partnership, or company.
(5) Timely means vessel and commodity movement data must be received by the Waterborne Commerce Statistics Center within 30 days after the close of the month in which the vessel movement or nonmovement takes place.
(6) Commercial vessel means a vessel used in transporting by water, either merchandise or passengers for compensation or hire, or in the course of business of the owner, lessee, or operator of the vessel.
(7) Reporting situation means a vessel movement by an operator that is required to be reported. Typical examples are listed in the instructions on the various ENG Forms. Five typical movements that are required to be reported by vessel operating companies include the following examples:
(i) Lease/Charter: If Company A leases or charters the barge to Company B, then Company B is responsible for reporting the movements of the barge until the lease/charter expires.
(ii) Interline movement: A barge is towed from Minneapolis to Cairo by Company A, and from Cairo to New Orleans by Company B. Since Company A is the barge owner, and the barge is not leased. Company A reports the entire movement of the barge with an origin of Minneapolis and a destination of New Orleans.
(iii) Vessel swap/trade: Company A swaps barge with Company B to allow Company B to meet a delivery commitment to New Orleans. Since Company A has not leased/chartered the barge, Company A is responsible for filing the report. Company B is responsible for filing the report on the barge which is traded to Company A. The swap or trade will not affect the primary responsibility for reporting the individual vessel movements.
(iv) Re-Consignment: Barge is reconsigned to Mobile, AL. Company A reports the movements as originating in Minneapolis and terminating in Mobile. The point from which barge is reconsigned is not reported, only points of loading and unloading.
(v) Fleeting: Barge is deposited at a New Orleans fleeting area by Company A and towed by Company B from fleeting area to New Orleans area dock for unloading. Company A, as barge owner, reports entire movements from Minneapolis to the unloading dock in New Orleans. Company B does not report any barge movement.
(b) Implementation of the waterborne commerce statistics provisions of the River and Harbor Act of 1922, as amended by the Water Resources Development Act of 1986 (Pub. L. 99-662), mandates the following.
(1) Filing requirements. Except as provided in paragraph (b)(2) of this section, the person or entity receiving remuneration for the movement of vessels or for the transportation of goods or passengers on the navigable waters is responsible for assuring that the activity report of commercial vessels is timely filed.
(i) For vessels under lease/charter agreements, the lessee or charterer of any commercial vessel engaged in commercial transportation will be responsible for the filing of said reports until the lease/charter expires.
(ii) The vessel owner, or his designated agent, is always the responsible party for ensuring that all commercial activity of the vessel is timely reported.
(2) The following Vessel Information Reports are to be filed with the Army Corps of Engineers, at the address specified on the ENG Form, and are to include:
(i) Monthly reports. These reports shall be made on ENG Forms furnished upon written request of the vessel operating companies to the Army Corps of Engineers. The forms are available at the following address: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Waterborne Commerce Statistics Center, Post Office Box 61280, New Orleans, Louisiana 70161-1280.
(A) All movements of domestic waterborne commercial vessels shall be reported, including but not limited to: Dry cargo ship and tanker moves, loaded and empty barge moves, towboat moves, with or without barges in tow, fishing vessels, movements of crew boats and supply boats to offshore locations, tugboat moves and movements of newly constructed vessels from the shipyard to the point of delivery.
(B) Vessels idle during the month must also be reported.
(C) Notwithstanding the above requirements, the following waterborne vessel movements need not be reported:
(1) Movements of recreational vessels.
(2) Movements of fire, police, and patrol vessels.
(3) Movements of vessels exclusively engaged in construction (e.g., piledrivers and crane barges).
(4) Movements of dredges to or from the dredging site. However, vessel movements of dredged material from the dredging site to the disposal site must be reported.
(5) Specific movements granted exemption in writing by the Waterborne Commerce Statistics Center.
(D) ENG Forms 3925 and 3925b shall be completed and filed by vessel operating companies each month for all voyages or vessel movements completed during the month. Vessels that did not complete a move during the month shall be reported as idle or in transit.
(E) The vessel operating company may request a waiver from the Army Corps of Engineers, and upon written approval by the Waterborne Commerce Center, the company may be allowed to provide the requisite information of the above paragraph (D), on computer printouts, magnetic tape, diskettes, or alternate medium approved by the Center.
(F) Harbor Maintenance Tax information is required on ENG Form 3925 for cargo movements into or out of ports that are subject to the provisions of section 1402 of the Water Resources Development Act of 1986 (Pub. L. 99-662).
(1) The name of the shipper of the commodity, and the shipper’s Internal Revenue Service number or Social Security number, must be reported on the form.
(2) If a specific exemption applies to the shipper, the shipper should list the appropriate exemption code. The specific exemption codes are listed in the directions for ENG Form 3925.
(3) Refer to 19 CFR part 24 for detailed information on exemptions and ports subject to the Harbor Maintenance Tax.
(ii) Annual reports. Annually an inventory of vessels available for commercial carriage of domestic commerce and vessel characteristics must be filed on ENG Forms 3931 and 3932.
(iii) Transaction reports. The sale, charter, or lease of vessels to other companies must also be reported to assure that proper decisions are made regarding each company’s duty for reporting vessel movements during the year. In the absence of notification of the transaction, the former company of record remains responsible until proper notice is received by the Corps.
(iv) Reports to lockmasters and canal operators. Masters of self-propelled non-recreational vessels which pass through locks and canals operated by the Army Corps of Engineers will provide the data specified on ENG Forms 3102b, 3102c, and/or 3102d to the lockmaster, canal operator, or his designated representative in the manner and detail dictated.
(c) Penalties for noncompliance. The following penalties for noncompliance can be assessed for offenses and violations.
(1) Criminal penalties. Every person or persons violating the provisions of this regulation shall, for each and every offenses, be liable to a fine of not more than $5,000, or imprisonment not exceeding two months, to be enforced in any district court in the United States within whose territorial jurisdiction such offense may have been committed.
(2) In addition, any person or entity that fails to provide timely, accurate, and complete statements or reports required to be submitted by the regulation in this section may also be assessed a civil penalty of up to $6,270 per violation under 33 U.S.C. 555, as amended.
(3) Denial of passage. In addition to these fines, penalties, and imprisonments, the lockmaster or canal operator can refuse to allow vessel passage.
(d) Enforcement policy. Every means at the disposal of the Army Corps of Engineers will be utilized to monitor and enforce these regulations.
(1) To identify vessel operating companies that should be reporting waterborne commerce data, The Corps will make use of, but is not limited to, the following sources.
(i) Data on purchase and sale of vessels.
(ii) U.S. Coast Guard vessel documentation and reports.
(iii) Data collected at Locks, Canals, and other facilities operated by the Corps.
(iv) Data provided by terminals on ENG Form 3926.
(v) Data provided by the other Federal agencies including the Internal Revenue Service, Customs Service, Maritime Administration, Department of Transportation, and Department of Commerce.
(vi) Data provided by ports, local facilities, and State or local governments.
(vii) Data from trade journals and publications.
(viii) Site visits and inspections.
(2) Notice of violation. Once a reporting violation is determined to have occurred, the Chief of the Waterborne Commerce Statistics Center will notify the responsible party and allow 30 days for the reports to be filed after the fact. If the reports are not filed within this 30-day notice period, then appropriate civil or criminal actions will be undertaken by the Army Corps of Engineers, including the proposal of civil or criminal penalties for noncompliance. Typical cases for criminal or civil action include, but are not limited to, those violations which are willful, repeated, or have a substantial impact in the opinion of the Chief of the Waterborne Commerce Statistics Center.
(3) Administrative assessment of civil penalties. Civil penalties may be assessed in the following manner.
(i) Authorization. If the Chief of the Waterborne Commerce Statistics Center finds that a person or entity has failed to comply with any of the provisions specified herein, he is authorized to assess a civil penalty in accordance with the Class I penalty provisions of 33 CFR part 326. Provided, however, that the procedures in 33 CFR part 326 specifically implementing the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1319(g)(4)), public notice, comment period, and state coordination, shall not apply.
(ii) Initiation. The Chief of the Waterborne Commerce Statistics Center will prepare and process a proposed civil penalty order which shall state the amount of the penalty to be assessed, describe by reasonable specificity the nature of the violation, and indicate the applicable provisions of 33 CFR part 326.
(iii) Hearing requests. Recipients of a proposed civil penalty order may file a written request for a hearing or other proceeding. This request shall be as specified in 33 CFR part 326 and shall be addressed to the Director of the Water Resources Support Center, Casey Building, Fort Belvoir, Virginia 22060-5586, who will provide the requesting person or entity with a reasonable opportunity to present evidence regarding the issuance, modification, or revocation of the proposed order. Thereafter, the Director of the Water Resources Center shall issue a final order.
(4) Additional remedies. Appropriate cases may also be referred to the local U.S. Attorney for prosecution, penalty collection, injunctive, and other relief by the Chief of the Waterborne Commerce Statistics Center.
PART 208 – FLOOD CONTROL REGULATIONS
§ 208.10 Local flood protection works; maintenance and operation of structures and facilities.
(a) General. (1) The structures and facilities constructed by the United States for local flood protection shall be continuously maintained in such a manner and operated at such times and for such periods as may be necessary to obtain the maximum benefits.
(2) The State, political subdivision thereof, or other responsible local agency, which furnished assurance that it will maintain and operate flood control works in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Army, as required by law, shall appoint a permanent committee consisting of or headed by an official hereinafter called the “Superintendent,” who shall be responsible for the development and maintenance of, and directly in charge of, an organization responsible for the efficient operation and maintenance of all of the structures and facilities during flood periods and for continuous inspection and maintenance of the project works during periods of low water, all without cost to the United States.
(3) A reserve supply of materials needed during a flood emergency shall be kept on hand at all times.
(4) No encroachment or trespass which will adversely affect the efficient operation or maintenance of the project works shall be permitted upon the rights-of-way for the protective facilities.
(5) No improvement shall be passed over, under, or through the walls, levees, improved channels or floodways, nor shall any excavation or construction be permitted within the limits of the project right-of-way, nor shall any change be made in any feature of the works without prior determination by the District Engineer of the Department of the Army or his authorized representative that such improvement, excavation, construction, or alteration will not adversely affect the functioning of the protective facilities. Such improvements or alterations as may be found to be desirable and permissible under the above determination shall be constructed in accordance with standard engineering practice. Advice regarding the effect of proposed improvements or alterations on the functioning of the project and information concerning methods of construction acceptable under standard engineering practice shall be obtained from the District Engineer or, if otherwise obtained, shall be submitted for his approval. Drawings or prints showing such improvements or alterations as finally constructed shall be furnished the District Engineer after completion of the work.
(6) It shall be the duty of the superintendent to submit a semiannual report to the District Engineer covering inspection, maintenance, and operation of the protective works.
(7) The District Engineer or his authorized representatives shall have access at all times to all portions of the protective works.
(8) Maintenance measures or repairs which the District Engineer deems necessary shall be promptly taken or made.
(9) Appropriate measures shall be taken by local authorities to insure that the activities of all local organizations operating public or private facilities connected with the protective works are coordinated with those of the Superintendent’s organization during flood periods.
(10) The Department of the Army will furnish local interests with an Operation and Maintenance Manual for each completed project, or separate useful part thereof, to assist them in carrying out their obligations under this part.
(b) Levees – (1) Maintenance. The Superintendent shall provide at all times such maintenance as may be required to insure serviceability of the structures in time of flood. Measures shall be taken to promote the growth of sod, exterminate burrowing animals, and to provide for routine mowing of the grass and weeds, removal of wild growth and drift deposits, and repair of damage caused by erosion or other forces. Where practicable, measures shall be taken to retard bank erosion by planting of willows or other suitable growth on areas riverward of the levees. Periodic inspections shall be made by the Superintendent to insure that the above maintenance measures are being effectively carried out and, further, to be certain that:
(i) No unusual settlement, sloughing, or material loss of grade or levee cross section has taken place;
(ii) No caving has occurred on either the land side or the river side of the levee which might affect the stability of the levee section;
(iii) No seepage, saturated areas, or sand boils are occurring;
(iv) Toe drainage systems and pressure relief wells are in good working condition, and that such facilities are not becoming clogged;
(v) Drains through the levees and gates on said drains are in good working condition;
(vi) No revetment work or riprap has been displaced, washed out, or removed;
(vii) No action is being taken, such as burning grass and weeds during inappropriate seasons, which will retard or destroy the growth of sod;
(viii) Access roads to and on the levee are being properly maintained;
(ix) Cattle guards and gates are in good condition;
(x) Crown of levee is shaped so as to drain readily, and roadway thereon, if any, is well shaped and maintained;
(xi) There is no unauthorized grazing or vehicular traffic on the levees;
(xii) Encroachments are not being made on the levee right-of-way which might endanger the structure or hinder its proper and efficient functioning during times of emergency.
(2) Operation. During flood periods the levee shall be patrolled continuously to locate possible sand boils or unusual wetness of the landward slope and to be certain that:
(i) There are no indications of slides or sloughs developing;
(ii) Wave wash or scouring action is not occurring;
(iii) No low reaches of leave exist which may be overtopped;
(iv) No other conditions exist which might endanger the structure.
(c) Flood walls – (1) Maintenance. Periodic inspections shall be made by the Superintendent to be certain that:
(i) No seepage, saturated areas, or sand boils are occurring;
(ii) No undue settlement has occurred which affects the stability of the wall or its water tightness;
(iii) No trees exist, the roots of which might extend under the wall and offer accelerated seepage paths;
(iv) The concrete has not undergone cracking, chipping, or breaking to an extent which might affect the stability of the wall or its water tightness;
(v) There are no encroachments upon the right-of-way which might endanger the structure or hinder its functioning in time of flood;
(vi) Care is being exercised to prevent accumulation of trash and debris adjacent to walls, and to insure that no fires are being built near them;
(vii) No bank caving conditions exist riverward of the wall which might endanger its stability;
(viii) Toe drainage systems and pressure relief wells are in good working condition, and that such facilities are not becoming clogged.
(2) Operation. Continuous patrol of the wall shall be maintained during flood periods to locate possible leakage at monolith joints or seepage underneath the wall. Floating plant or boats will not be allowed to lie against or tie up to the wall. Should it become necessary during a flood emergency to pass anchor cables over the wall, adequate measures shall be taken to protect the concrete and construction joints. Immediate steps shall be taken to correct any condition which endangers the stability of the wall.
(d) Drainage structures – (1) Maintenance. Adequate measures shall be taken to insure that inlet and outlet channels are kept open and that trash, drift, or debris is not allowed to accumulate near drainage structures. Flap gates and manually operated gates and valves on drainage structures shall be examined, oiled, and trial operated at least once every 90 days. Where drainage structures are provided with stop log or other emergency closures, the condition of the equipment and its housing shall be inspected regularly and a trial installation of the emergency closure shall be made at least once each year. Periodic inspections shall be made by the Superintendent to be certain that:
(i) Pipes, gates, operating mechanism, riprap, and headwalls are in good condition;
(ii) Inlet and outlet channels are open;
(iii) Care is being exercised to prevent the accumulation of trash and debris near the structures and that no fires are being built near bituminous coated pipes;
(iv) Erosion is not occurring adjacent to the structure which might endanger its water tightness or stability.
(2) Operation. Whenever high water conditions impend, all gates will be inspected a short time before water reaches the invert of the pipe and any object which might prevent closure of the gate shall be removed. Automatic gates shall be closely observed until it has been ascertained that they are securely closed. Manually operated gates and valves shall be closed as necessary to prevent inflow of flood water. All drainage structures in levees shall be inspected frequently during floods to ascertain whether seepage is taking place along the lines of their contact with the embankment. Immediate steps shall be taken to correct any adverse condition.
(e) Closure structures – (1) Maintenance. Closure structures for traffic openings shall be inspected by the Superintendent every 90 days to be certain that:
(i) No parts are missing;
(ii) Metal parts are adequately covered with paint;
(iii) All movable parts are in satisfactory working order;
(iv) Proper closure can be made promptly when necessary;
(v) Sufficient materials are on hand for the erection of sand bag closures and that the location of such materials will be readily accessible in times of emergency.
(2) Operation. Erection of each movable closure shall be started in sufficient time to permit completion before flood waters reach the top of the structure sill. Information regarding the proper method of erecting each individual closure structure, together with an estimate of the time required by an experienced crew to complete its erection will be given in the Operation and Maintenance Manual which will be furnished local interests upon completion of the project. Closure structures will be inspected frequently during flood periods to ascertain that no undue leakage is occurring and that drains provided to care for ordinary leakage are functioning properly. Boats or floating plant shall not be allowed to tie up to closure structures or to discharge passengers or cargo over them.
(f) Pumping plants – (1) Maintenance. Pumping plants shall be inspected by the Superintendent at intervals not to exceed 30 days during flood seasons and 90 days during off-flood seasons to insure that all equipment is in order for instant use. At regular intervals, proper measures shall be taken to provide for cleaning plant, buildings, and equipment, repainting as necessary, and lubricating all machinery. Adequate supplies of lubricants for all types of machines, fuel for gasoline or diesel powered equipment, and flash lights or lanterns for emergency lighting shall be kept on hand at all times. Telephone service shall be maintained at pumping plants. All equipment, including switch gear, transformers, motors, pumps, valves, and gates shall be trial operated and checked at least once every 90 days. Megger tests of all insulation shall be made whenever wiring has been subjected to undue dampness and otherwise at intervals not to exceed one year. A record shall be kept showing the results of such tests. Wiring disclosed to be in an unsatisfactory condition by such tests shall be brought to a satisfactory condition or shall be promptly replaced. Diesel and gasoline engines shall be started at such intervals and allowed to run for such length of time as may be necessary to insure their serviceability in times of emergency. Only skilled electricians and mechanics shall be employed on tests and repairs. Operating personnel for the plant shall be present during tests. Any equipment removed from the station for repair or replacement shall be returned or replaced as soon as practicable and shall be trial operated after reinstallation. Repairs requiring removal of equipment from the plant shall be made during off-flood seasons insofar as practicable.
(2) Operation. Competent operators shall be on duty at pumping plants whenever it appears that necessity for pump operation is imminent. The operator shall thoroughly inspect, trial operate, and place in readiness all plant equipment. The operator shall be familiar with the equipment manufacturers’ instructions and drawings and with the “Operating Instructions” for each station. The equipment shall be operated in accordance with the above-mentioned “Operating Instructions” and care shall be exercised that proper lubrication is being supplied all equipment, and that no overheating, undue vibration or noise is occurring. Immediately upon final recession of flood waters, the pumping station shall be thoroughly cleaned, pump house sumps flushed, and equipment thoroughly inspected, oiled and greased. A record or log of pumping plant operation shall be kept for each station, a copy of which shall be furnished the District Engineer following each flood.
(g) Channels and floodways – (1) Maintenance. Periodic inspections of improved channels and floodways shall be made by the Superintendent to be certain that:
(i) The channel or floodway is clear of debris, weeds, and wild growth;
(ii) The channel or floodway is not being restricted by the depositing of waste materials, building of unauthorized structures or other encroachments;
(iii) The capacity of the channel or floodway is not being reduced by the formation of shoals;
(iv) Banks are not being damaged by rain or wave wash, and that no sloughing of banks has occurred;
(v) Riprap sections and deflection dikes and walls are in good condition;
(vi) Approach and egress channels adjacent to the improved channel or floodway are sufficiently clear of obstructions and debris to permit proper functioning of the project works.
(2) Operation. Both banks of the channel shall be patrolled during periods of high water, and measures shall be taken to protect those reaches being attacked by the current or by wave wash. Appropriate measures shall be taken to prevent the formation of jams of ice or debris. Large objects which become lodged against the bank shall be removed. The improved channel or floodway shall be thoroughly inspected immediately following each major high water period. As soon as practicable thereafter, all snags and other debris shall be removed and all damage to banks, riprap, deflection dikes and walls, drainage outlets, or other flood control structures repaired.
(h) Miscellaneous facilities – (1) Maintenance. Miscellaneous structures and facilities constructed as a part of the protective works and other structures and facilities which function as a part of, or affect the efficient functioning of the protective works, shall be periodically inspected by the Superintendent and appropriate maintenance measures taken. Damaged or unserviceable parts shall be repaired or replaced without delay. Areas used for ponding in connection with pumping plants or for temporary storage of interior run-off during flood periods shall not be allowed to become filled with silt, debris, or dumped material. The Superintendent shall take proper steps to prevent restriction of bridge openings and, where practicable, shall provide for temporary raising during floods of bridges which restrict channel capacities during high flows.
(2) Operation. Miscellaneous facilities shall be operated to prevent or reduce flooding during periods of high water. Those facilities constructed as a part of the protective works shall not be used for purposes other than flood protection without approval of the District Engineer unless designed therefor.
(a) Purpose. This regulation prescribes the responsibilities and general procedures for regulating reservoir projects capable of regulation for flood control or navigation and the use of storage allocated for such purposes and provided on the basis of flood control and navigation, except projects owned and operated by the Corps of Engineers; the International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico; and those under the jurisdiction of the International Joint Commission, United States, and Canada, and the Columbia River Treaty. The intent of this regulation is to establish an understanding between project owners, operating agencies, and the Corps of Engineers.
(b) Responsibilities. The basic responsibilities of the Corps of Engineers regarding project operation are set out in the cited authority and described in the following paragraphs:
(1) Section 7 of the Flood Control Act of 1944 (58 Stat. 890, 33 U.S.C. 709) directs the Secretary of the Army to prescribe regulations for flood control and navigation in the following manner:
Hereafter, it shall be the duty of the Secretary of War to prescribe regulations for the use of storage allocated for flood control or navigation at all reservoirs constructed wholly or in part with Federal funds provided on the basis of such purposes, and the operation of any such project shall be in accordance with such regulations: Provided, That this section shall not apply to the Tennessee Valley Authority, except that in case of danger from floods on the lower Ohio and Mississippi Rivers the Tennessee Valley Authority is directed to regulate the release of water from the Tennessee River into the Ohio River in accordance with such instructions as may be issued by the War Department.
(2) Section 9 of Public Law 436-83d Congress (68 Stat. 303) provides for the development of the Coosa River, Alabama and Georgia, and directs the Secretary of the Army to prescribe rules and regulations for project operation in the interest of flood control and navigation as follows:
The operation and maintenance of the dams shall be subject to reasonable rules and regulations of the Secretary of the Army in the interest of flood control and navigation.
This Regulation will also be applicable to dam and reservoir projects operated under provisions of future legislative acts wherein the Secretary of the Army is directed to prescribe rules and regulations in the interest of flood control and navigation. The Chief of Engineers, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is designated the duly authorized representative of the Secretary of the Army to exercise the authority set out in the Congressional Acts. This Regulation will normally be implemented by letters of understanding between the Corps of Engineers and project owner and will incorporate the provisions of such letters of understanding prior to the time construction renders the project capable of significant impoundment of water. A water control agreement signed by both parties will follow when deliberate impoundment first begins or at such time as the responsibilities of any Corps-owned projects may be transferred to another entity. Promulgation of this Regulation for a given project will occur at such time as the name of the project appears in the
(3) Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), formerly Federal Power Commission (FPC), Licenses.
(i) Responsibilities of the Secretary of the Army and/or the Chief of Engineers in FERC licensing actions are set forth in reference 3c above and pertinent sections are cited herein. The Commission may further stipulate as a licensing condition, that a licensee enter into an agreement with the Department of the Army providing for operation of the project during flood times, in accordance with rules and regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Army.
(A) Section 4(e) of the Federal Power Act requires approval by the Chief of Engineers and the Secretary of the Army of plans of dams or other structures affecting the navigable capacity of any navigable waters of the United States, prior to issuance of a license by the Commission as follows:
The Commission is hereby authorized and empowered to issue licenses to citizens * * * for the purpose of constructing, operating and maintaining dams, water conduits, reservoirs, powerhouses, transmission lines, or other project works necessary or convenient for the development and improvement of navigation and for the development, transmission, and utilization of power across, along, from or in any of the streams or other bodies of water over which Congress has jurisdiction * * * Provided further, That no license affecting the navigable capacity of any navigable waters of the United States shall be issued until the plans of the dam or other structures affecting navigation have been approved by the Chief of Engineers and the Secretary of the Army.
(B) Sections 10(a) and 10(c) of the Federal Power Act specify conditions of project licenses including the following:
(1) Section 10(a). “That the project adopted * * * shall be such as in the judgment of the Commission will be best adapted to a comprehensive plan for improving or developing a waterway or waterways for the use or benefit of interstate or foreign commerce, for the improvement and utilization of waterpower development, and for other beneficial public uses * * *.”
(2) Section 10(c). “That the licensee shall * * * so maintain and operate said works as not to impair navigation, and shall conform to such rules and regulations as the Commission may from time to time prescribe for the protection of life, health, and property * * *.”
(C) Section 18 of the Federal Power Act directs the operation of any navigation facilities built under the provision of that Act, be controlled by rules and regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Army as follows:
The operation of any navigation facilities which may be constructed as part of or in connection with any dam or diversion structure built under the provisions of this Act, whether at the expense of a licensee hereunder or of the United States, shall at all times be controlled by such reasonable rules and regulations in the interest of navigation; including the control of the pool caused by such dam or diversion structure as may be made from time to time by the Secretary of the Army, * * *.
(ii) Federal Power Commission Order No. 540 issued October 31, 1975, and published November 7, 1975 (40 FR 51998), amending § 2.9 of the Commission’s General Policy and Interpretations prescribed Standardized Conditions (Forms) for Inclusion in Preliminary Permits and Licenses Issued Under part I of the Federal Power Act. As an example, Article 12 of Standard Form L-3, titled: “Terms and Conditions of License for Constructed Major Projects Affecting Navigable Waters of the United States,” sets forth the Commission’s interpretation of appropriate sections of the Act, which deal with navigation aspects, and attendant responsibilities of the Secretary of the Army in licensing actions as follows:
The United States specifically retains and safeguards the right to use water in such amount, to be determined by the Secretary of the Army, as may be necessary for the purposes of navigation on the navigable waterway affected; and the operations of the Licensee, so far as they affect the use, storage and discharge from storage of waters affected by the license, shall at all times be controlled by such reasonable rules and regulations as the Secretary of the Army may prescribe in the interest of navigation, and as the Commission may prescribe for the protection of life, health, and property, * * * and the Licensee shall release water from the project reservoir at such rate * * * as the Secretary of the Army may prescribe in the interest of navigation, or as the Commission may prescribe for the other purposes hereinbefore mentioned.
(c) Scope and terminology. This regulation applies to Federal authorized flood control and/or navigation storage projects, and to non-Federal projects which require the Secretary of the Army to prescribe regulations as a condition of the license, permit or legislation, during the planning, design and construction phases, and throughout the life of the project. In compliance with the authority cited above, this regulation defines certain activities and responsibilities concerning water control management throughout the Nation in the interest of flood control and navigation. In carrying out the conditions of this regulation, the owner and/or operating agency will comply with applicable provisions of Pub. L. 85-624, the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1958, and Pub. L. 92-500, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972. This regulation does not apply to local flood protection works governed by § 208.10, or to navigation facilities and associated structures which are otherwise covered by part 207 (Navigation Regulations) of title 33 of the code. Small reservoirs, containing less than 12,500 acre-feet of flood control or navigation storage, may be excluded from this regulation and covered under § 208.10, unless specifically required by law or conditions of the license or permit.
(1) The terms reservoir and project as used herein include all water resource impoundment projects constructed or modified, including natural lakes, that are subject to this regulation.
(2) The term project owner refers to the entity responsible for maintenance, physical operation, and safety of the project, and for carrying out the water control plan in the interest of flood control and/or navigation as prescribed by the Corps of Engineers. Special arrangements may be made by the project owner for “operating agencies” to perform these tasks.
(3) The term letter of understanding as used herein includes statements which consummate this regulation for any given project and define the general provisions or conditions of the local sponsor, or owner, cooperation agreed to in the authorizing legislative document, and the requirements for compliance with section 7 of the 1944 Flood Control Act, the Federal Power Act or other special congressional act. This information will be specified in the water control plan and manual. The letter of understanding will be signed by a duly authorized representative of the Chief of Engineers and the project owner. A “field working agreement” may be substituted for a letter of understanding, provided that the specified minimum requirements of the latter, as stated above, are met.
(4) The term water control agreement refers to a compliation of water control criteria, guidelines, diagrams, release schedules, rule curves and specifications that basically govern the use of reservoir storage space allocated for flood control or navigation and/or release functions of a water control project for these purposes. In general, they indicate controlling or limiting rates of discharge and storage space required for flood control and/or navigation, based on the runoff potential during various seasons of the year.
(5) For the purpose of this regulation, the term water control plan is limited to the plan of regulation for a water resources project in the interest of flood control and/or navigation. The water control plan must conform with proposed allocations of storage capacity and downstream conditions or other requirements to meet all functional objectives of the particular project, acting separately or in combination with other projects in a system.
(6) The term real-time denotes the processing of current information or data in a sufficiently timely manner to influence a physical response in the system being monitored and controlled. As used herein the term connotes * * * the analyses for and execution of water control decisions for both minor and major flood events and for navigation, based on prevailing hydrometeorological and other conditions and constraints, to achieve efficient management of water resource systems.
(d) Procedures – (1) Conditions during project formulation. During the planning and design phases, the project owner should consult with the Corps of Engineers regarding the quantity and value of space to reserve in the reservoir for flood control and/or navigation purposes, and for utilization of the space, and other requirements of the license, permit or conditions of the law. Relevant matters that bear upon flood control and navigation accomplishment include: Runoff potential, reservoir discharge capability, downstream channel characteristics, hydrometeorological data collection, flood hazard, flood damage characteristics, real estate acquisition for flowage requirements (fee and easement), and resources required to carry out the water control plan. Advice may also be sought on determination of and regulation for the probable maximum or other design flood under consideration by the project owner to establish the quantity of surcharge storage space, and freeboard elevation of top of dam or embankment for safety of the project.
(2) Corps of Engineers involvement. If the project owner is responsible for real-time implementation of the water control plan, consultation and assistance will be provided by the Corps of Engineers when appropriate and to the extent possible. During any emergency that affects flood control and/or navigation, the Corps of Engineers may temporarily prescribe regulation of flood control or navigation storage space on a day-to-day (real-time) basis without request of the project owner. Appropriate consideration will be given for other authorized project functions. Upon refusal of the project owner to comply with regulations prescribed by the Corps of Engineers, a letter will be sent to the project owner by the Chief of Engineers or his duly authorized representative describing the reason for the regulations prescribed, events that have transpired, and notification that the project owner is in violation of the Code of Federal Regulations. Should an impasse arise, in that the project owner or the designated operating entity persists in noncompliance with regulations prescribed by the Corps of Engineers, measures may be taken to assure compliance.
(3) Corps of Engineers implementation of real-time water control decisions. The Corps of Engineers may prescribe the continuing regulation of flood control storage space for any project subject to this regulation on a day-to-day (real-time) basis. When this is the case, consultation and assistance from the project owner to the extent possible will be expected. Special requests by the project owner, or appropriate operating entity, are preferred before the Corps of Engineers offers advice on real-time regulation during surcharge storage utilization.
(4) Water control plan and manual. Prior to project completion, water control managers from the Corps of Engineers will visit the project and the area served by the project to become familiar with the water control facilities, and to insure sound formulation of the water control plan. The formal plan of regulation for flood control and/or navigation, referred to herein as the water control plan, will be developed and documented in a water control manual prepared by the Corps of Engineers. Development of the manual will be coordinated with the project owner to obtain the necessary pertinent information, and to insure compatibility with other project purposes and with surcharge regulation. Major topics in the manual will include: Authorization and description of the project, hydrometeorology, data collection and communication networks, hydrologic forecasting, the water control plan, and water resource management functions, including responsibilities and coordination for water control decisionmaking. Special instructions to the dam tender or reservoir manager on data collection, reporting to higher Federal authority, and on procedures to be followed in the event of a communication outage under emergency conditions, will be prepared as an exhibit in the manual. Other exhibits will include copies of this regulation, letters of understanding consummating this regulation, and the water control agreements. After approval by the Chief of Engineers or his duly authorized representative, the manual will be furnished the project owner.
(5) Water control agreement. (i) A water control diagram (graphical) will be prepared by the Corps of Engineers for each project having variable space reservation for flood control and/or navigation during the year; e.g., variable seasonal storage, joint-use space, or other rule curve designation. Reservoir inflow parameters will be included on the diagrams when appropriate. Concise notes will be included on the diagrams prescribing the use of storage space in terms of release schedules, runoff, nondamaging or other controlling flow rates downstream of the damsite, and other major factors as appropriate. A water control release schedule will be prepared in tabular form for projects that do not have variable space reservation for flood control and/or navigation. The water control diagram or release schedule will be signed by a duly authorized representative of the Chief of Engineers, the project owner, and the designated operating agency, and will be used as the basis for carrying out this regulation. Each diagram or schedule will contain a reference to this regulation.
(ii) When deemed necessary by the Corps of Engineers, information given on the water control diagram or release schedule will be supplemented by appropriate text to assure mutual understanding on certain details or other important aspects of the water control plan not covered in this regulation, on the water control diagram or in the release schedule. This material will include clarification of any aspects that might otherwise result in unsatisfactory project performance in the interest of flood control and/or navigation. Supplementation of the agreement will be necessary for each project where the Corps of Engineers exercises the discretionary authority to prescribe the flood control regulation on a day-to-day (real-time) basis. The agreement will include delegation of the responsibility. The document should also cite, as appropriate, section 7 of the 1944 Flood Control Act, the Federal Power Act and/or other congressional legislation authorizing construction and/or directing operation of the project.
(iii) All flood control regulations published in the
(iv) Nothing in this regulation prohibits the promulgation of specific regulations for a project in compliance with the authorizing acts, when agreement on acceptable regulations cannot be reached between the Corps of Engineers and the owner.
(6) Hydrometeorological instrumentation. The project owner will provide instrumentation in the vicinity of the damsite and will provide communication equipment necessary to record and transmit hydrometeorological and reservoir data to all appropriate Federal authorities on a real-time basis unless there are extenuating circumstances or are otherwise provided for as a condition of the license or permit. For those projects where the owner retains responsibility for real-time implementation of the water control plan, the owner will also provide or arrange for the measurement and reporting of hydrometeorological parameters required within and adjacent to the watershed and downstream of the damsite, sufficient to regulate the project for flood control and/or navigation in an efficient manner. When data collection stations outside the immediate vicinity of the damsite are required, and funds for installation, observation, and maintenance are not available from other sources, the Corps of Engineers may agree to share the costs for such stations with the project owner. Availability of funds and urgency of data needs are factors which will be considered in reaching decisions on cost sharing.
(7) Project safety. The project owner is responsible for the safety of the dam and appurtenant facilities and for regulation of the project during surcharge storage utilization. Emphasis upon the safety of the dam is especially important in the event surcharge storage is utilized, which results when the total storage space reserved for flood control is exceeded. Any assistance provided by the Corps of Engineers concerning surcharge regulation is to be utilized at the discretion of the project owner, and does not relieve the owner of the responsibility for safety of the project.
(8) Notification of the general public. The Corps of Engineers and other interested Federal and State agencies, and the project owner will jointly sponsor public involvement activities, as appropriate, to fully apprise the general public of the water control plan. Public meetings or other effective means of notification and involvement will be held, with the initial meeting being conducted as early as practicable but not later than the time the project first becomes operational. Notice of the initial public meeting shall be published once a week for 3 consecutive weeks in one or more newspapers of general circulation published in each county covered by the water control plan. Such notice shall also be used when appropriate to inform the public of modifications in the water control plan. If no newspaper is published in a county, the notice shall be published in one or more newspapers of general circulation within that county. For the purposes of this section a newspaper is one qualified to publish public notices under applicable State law. Notice shall be given in the event significant problems are anticipated or experienced that will prevent carrying out the approved water control plan or in the event that an extreme water condition is expected that could produce severe damage to property or loss of life. The means for conveying this information shall be commensurate with the urgency of the situation. The water control manual will be made available for examination by the general public upon request at the appropriate office of the Corps of Engineers, project owner or designated operating agency.
(9) Other generalized requirements for flood control and navigation. (i) Storage space in the reservoirs allocated for flood control and navigation purposes shall be kept available for those purposes in accordance with the water control agreement, and the plan of regulation in the water control manual.
(ii) Any water impounded in the flood control space defined by the water control agreement shall be evacuated as rapidly as can be safely accomplished without causing downstream flows to exceed the controlling rates; i.e., releases from reservoirs shall be restricted insofar as practicable to quantities which, in conjunction with uncontrolled runoff downstream of the dam, will not cause water levels to exceed the controlling stages currently in force. Although conflicts may arise with other purposes, such as hydropower, the plan or regulation may require releases to be completely curtailed in the interest of flood control or safety of the project.
(iii) Nothing in the plan of regulation for flood control shall be construed to require or allow dangerously rapid changes in magnitudes of releases. Releases will be made in a manner consistent with requirements for protecting the dam and reservoir from major damage during passage of the maximum design flood for the project.
(iv) The project owner shall monitor current reservoir and hydro- meteorological conditions in and adjacent to the watershed and downstream of the damsite, as necessary. This and any other pertinent information shall be reported to the Corps of Engineers on a timely basis, in accordance with standing instructions to the damtender or other means requested by the Corps of Engineers.
(v) In all cases where the project owner retains responsibility for real-time implementation of the water control plan, he shall make current determinations of: Reservoir inflow, flood control storage utilized, and scheduled releases. He shall also determine storage space and releases required to comply with the water control plan prescribed by the Corps of Engineers. The owner shall report this information on a timely basis as requested by the Corps of Engineers.
(vi) The water control plan is subject to temporary modification by the Corps of Engineers if found necessary in time of emergency. Requests for and action on such modifications may be made by the fastest means of communication available. The action taken shall be confirmed in writing the same day to the project owner and shall include justification for the action.
(vii) The project owner may temporarily deviate from the water control plan in the event an immediate short-term departure is deemed necessary for emergency reasons to protect the safety of the dam, or to avoid other serious hazards. Such actions shall be immediately reported by the fastest means of communication available. Actions shall be confirmed in writing the same day to the Corps of Engineers and shall include justification for the action. Continuation of the deviation will require the express approval of the Chief of Engineers, or his duly authorized representative.
(viii) Advance approval of the Chief of Engineers, or his duly authorized representative, is required prior to any deviation from the plan of regulation prescribed or approved by the Corps of Engineers in the interest of flood control and/or navigation, except in emergency situations provided for in paragraph (d)(9)(vii) of this section. When conditions appear to warrant a prolonged deviation from the approved plan, the project owner and the Corps of Engineers will jointly investigate and evaluate the proposed deviation to insure that the overall integrity of the plan would not be unduly compromised. Approval of prolonged deviations will not be granted unless such investigations and evaluations have been conducted to the extent deemed necessary by the Chief of Engineers, or his designated representatives, to fully substantiate the deviation.
(10) Revisions. The water control plan and all associated documents will be revised by the Corps of Engineers as necessary, to reflect changed conditions that come to bear upon flood control and navigation, e.g., reallocation of reservoir storage space due to sedimentation or transfer of storage space to a neighboring project. Revision of the water control plan, water control agreement, water control diagram, or release schedule requires approval of the Chief of Engineers or his duly authorized representative. Each such revision shall be effective upon the date specified in the approval. The original (signed document) water control agreement shall be kept on file in the respective Office the Division Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, located at division offices throughout the continental USA. Copies of these agreements may be obtained from the office of the project owner, or from the office of the appropriate Division Engineer, Corps of Engineers.
(11) Federal Register. The following information for each project subject to section 7 of the 1944 Flood Control Act and other applicable congressional acts shall be published in the
(i) Reservoir, dam, and lake names,
(ii) Stream, county, and State corresponding to the damsite location,
(iii) The maximum current storage space in acre-feet to be reserved exclusively for flood control and/or navigation purposes, or any multiple-use space (intermingled) when flood control or navigation is one of the purposes, with corresponding elevations in feet above mean sea level, and area in acres, at the upper and lower limits of said space,
(iv) The name of the project owner, and
(v) Congressional legislation authorizing the project for Federal participation.
(e) List of projects. The following tables, “Pertinent Project Data – Section 208.11 Regulation,” show the pertinent data for projects which are subject to this regulation.
List of Projects
[Non-Corps projects with Corps Regulation Requirements]
| Project name 1 (1) | State (2) | County (3) | Stream 1 (4) | Project purpose 2 (5) | Storage 1000 AF (6) | Elev limits feet M.S.L. | Area in acres | Authorizing legis. 3 (11) | Proj. owner 4 (12) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upper (7) | Lower (8) | Upper (9) | Lower (10) | ||||||||
| Agency Valley Dam & Res | OR | Malheur | N Fork Malheur R | FICR | 60.0 | 3340.0 | 3263.0 | 1900 | 0 | PL 68-292 | USBR. |
| Alpine Dam | IL | Winnebago | Keith Cr | F | 0.6 | 796.0 | 760.0 | 52 | 0 | PWA Proj | Rkfd, IL. |
| Altus Dam & Res | OK | Jackson | N Fork Red R | F IMR | 19.6 132.6 | 1562.0 1559.0 | 1559.0 1517.5P | 6800 6260 | 6260 735 | PL 761 | USBR. |
| Anderson Ranch Dam & Res | ID | Elmore | S Fk Boise R | FEI | 423.2 | 4196.0 | 4039.6 | 4740 | 1150 | Act of 1939 53 Stat 1187 | USBR. |
| Arbuckle Dam & Res | OK | Murray | Rock Cr | F MRC | 36.4 62.5 | 885.3 872.0 | 872.0 827.0 | 3130 2350 | 2350 606 | PL 594 | USBR. |
| Arrowrock Dam & Res | ID | Elmore | Boise R | FI | 286.6 | 3216.0 | 2974.0 | 3100 | 200 | Act of 1902 32 Stat 388 | USBR. |
| Bear Cr Dam | MO | Marion Ralls | Bear Cr | F | 8.7 | 546.5 | 520.0 | 540 | 0 | PL 83-780 | Hnbl, MO. |
| Bear Swamp Fife Brook (Lo) | MA | Franklin | Deerfield R | E | 6.9 | 870.0 | 830.0 | 152 | 115 | FERC 2669 | NEPC. |
| Bear Swamp PS (Upper) | MA | Franklin | Deerfield R Trib | E | 8.9 | 1600.0 | 1550.0 | 118 | 102 | Fed Pwr Act | NEPC. |
| Bellows Falls Dam & Lk | VT | Cheshire | Connecticut R | E | 7.5 | 291.6 | 273.6 | 2804 | 836 | FERC 1885 | NEPC. |
| Big Dry Creek and Div | CA | Fresno | Big Dry Cr & Dog Cr | F | 16.2 | 425.0 | 393.0 | 1530 | 0 | PL 77-228 | Rclm, B CA. |
| Blue Mesa Dam & Res | CO | Gunnison | Gunnison R | FER | 748.5 | 7519.4 | 7393.0 | 9180 | 2790 | PL 84-485 | USBR |
| Boca Dam & Res | CA | Nevada | Little Truckee R | I FI | 32.8 8.0 | 5596.5 5605.0 | 5521.0 5596.0 | 873 980 | 52 873 | PL 61-289 PL 68-292 | USBR. |
| Bonny Dam & Res | CO | Yuma | S Fork Republic R | F ICR | 128.2 39.2 | 3710.0 3672.0 | 3672.0 3638.0 | 5036 2042 | 2042 331 | PL 78-534 PL 79-732 | USBR. |
| Boysen Dam & Res | WY | Fremont | Wild R | F FEIQ EIQ | 150.4 146.1 403.8 | 4732.2 4725.0 4717.0 | 4725.0 4717.0 4685.0 | 22170 19560 16960 | 19560 16960 9280 | PL 78-534 | USBR. |
| Brantley Dam & Res | NM | Eddy | Pecos R | FIRQ | 348.5 | 3283.0 | 3210.7 | 21294 | 38 | PL 92-515 | USBR. |
| Brownlee Dam & Res | OR ID | Baker Washington | Snake R | FE | 975.3 | 2077.0 | 1976.0 | 13840 | 6650 | FERC No 1971-C | ID Pwr. |
| Bully Cr Dam & Res | OR | Malheur | Bully Cr | FI | 31.6 | 2516.0 | 2456.8 | 1082 | 140 | PL 86-248 | USBR. |
| Camanche Dam & Res | CA | San Joaquin | Mokelumne R | FRIE RIE | 200.0 230.9 | 235.5 205.1 | 205.1 92.0 | 7600 5507 | 5507 0 | PL 86-645 | EB-MUD. |
| Canyon Ferry Dam & Lk | MT | Lewis Clark | Missouri R | F FEI EI | 99.5 795.1 711.5 | 3800.0 3797.0 3770.0 | 3797.0 3770.0 3728.0 | 33535 32800 24125 | 32800 24125 11480 | PL 78-534 | USBR. |
| Cedar Bluff Dam & Res | KS | Trego | Smoky Hill R | F IMCR | 191.9 149.8 | 2166.0 2144.0 | 2144.0 2107.8 | 10790 6869 | 6869 2086 | PL 78-534 | USBR. |
| Cheney Dam & Res | KS | Sedgwick | N Fork Ninnescah R | F MC | 80.9 151.8 0.0 | 1429.9 1421.6 0.0 | 1421.6 1392.9 0.0 | 12420 9540 0 | 9540 1970 0 | PL 86-787 | USBR. |
| Clark Canyon Dam & Res | MT | Beaverhead | Beaverhead R | F FI I | 79.1 50.4 126.1 | 5560.4 5546.1 5535.7 | 5546.1 5535.7 5470.6 | 5900 5160 4495 | 5160 4495 220 | PL 78-534 | USBR. |
| Del Valle Dam & Res | CA | Alameda | Alameda Cr | F FIM IMR | 37.0 1.0 29.0 | 745.0 703.1 702.2 | 703.1 702.2 635.0 | 1060 710 700 | 710 700 275 | PL 87-874 | DWR. CA. |
| Don Pedro Dam & Lk | CA | Tuolumne | Tuolumne R | FIER EIR | 340.0 1381.0 308.0 | 830.0 802.0 600.0 | 802.0 600.0 342.0 | 12900 11260 3520 | 11260 3520 29 | PL 78-534 | M&T. Irr. |
| East Canyon Dam & Res | UT | Morgan | East Canyon Cr | FEIM | 48.0 | 5705.5 | 5578.0 | 684 | 130 | PL 81-273 | USBR. |
| Echo Dam & Res | UT | Summit | Weber R | FEIM | 74.0 | 5560.0 | 5450.0 | 1455 | 0 | PL 81-83 | USBR. |
| Emigrant Dam & Res | OR | Jackson | Emigrant Cr | FIR | 39.0 | 2241.0 | 2131.5 | 801 | 80 | PL 83-606 | USBR. |
| Enders Dam & Res | NE | Chase | Frenchman Cr | F ICR | 30.0 34.5 | 3127.0 3112.3 | 3112.3 3082.4 | 2405 1707 | 1707 658 | PL 78-534 PL 84-505 | USBR. |
| Folsom Dam & Lk | CA | Sacramento | American R | FEIM EIM | 400.0 610.0 | 466.0 427.0 | 427.0 210.0 | 11450 9040 | 9040 0 | USBR. | |
| Fort Cobb Dam & Res | OK | Caddo | Pond (Cobb) Cr | F IMCR | 63.7 78.3 | 1354.8 1342.0 | 1342.0 1300.0 | 5980 4100 | 4100 337 | PL 419 | USBR. |
| Foss Dam & Res | OK | Custer | Washita R | F IMRC | 180.6 243.8 | 1668.6 1652.0 | 1652.0 1597.2 | 13140 8800 | 8800 1360 | PL 419 | USBR. |
| Friant Dam & Millerton Lk | CA | Fresno | San Joaquin R | FEIM | 390.5 | 578.0 | 466.3 | 4850 | 2101 | PL 75-392 PL 76-868 | USBR. |
| Galesville Dam | OR | Douglas | Cow Cr | FEMCR | 42.2 | 1881.5 | 1780.0 | 760 | 150 | FERC No. 71 61001 | Dgls, CO. |
| Gaston Dam & Res | NC | Halifax Northampton | Roanoke R | FE | 63.0 | 203.0 | 200.0 | 22500 | 20300 | Fed Pwr Act | VA Pwr. |
| Glen Elder Dam & Waconda Lk | KS | Mitchel | Solomon R | F IM | 722.3 204.8 | 1488.3 1455.6 | 1455.6 1428.0 | 33682 12602 | 12602 3341 | PL 78-534 PL 79-526 | USBR. |
| Glendo Dam & Res | WY | Platte | N Platte R | F EIM | 271.9 454.3 | 4653.0 4635.0 | 4635.0 4570.0 | 17990 12370 | 12370 3130 | PL 78-534 | USBR. |
| Grand Coulee Dam & FDR Lk | WA | Okanogan Grant | Columbia R | FEI | 5185.5 | 1290.0 | 1208.0 | 82280 | 45592 | PL 89-561 | USBR. |
| H Neely Henry Dam & Res | AL | Calhoun St. Clair | Coosa R | FE | 49.7 | 508.0 | 502.5 | 11235 | 7632 | PL 83-436 | AL Pwr. |
| Harris Dam & Res | AL | Randolph | Tallapoosa R | FE | 215.0 | 793.0 | 785.0 | 10661 | 9012 | PL 89-789 | AL Pwr. |
| Heart Butte Dm & Lk Tschida | ND | Grant | Heart R | F IQ | 147.9 69.0 | 2094.5 2064.5 | 2064.5 2030.0 | 6580 3400 | 3400 810 | PL 78-534 | USBR. |
| Hells Canyon Dam & Res | OR ID | Wallowa Adams | Snake R | EN | 11.7 | 1688.0 | 1683.0 | 2380 | 2280 | FERC No 1971-A | ID Pwr. |
| Hoover Dam & Lk Mead | NV AZ | Clark Mohave | Colorado R | F FEIMCAR | 1500.0 15.8 | 1229.0 1219.6 | 1219.6 1083.0 | 162700 156500 | 156500 83500 | PL 70-642 | USBR. |
| Hungry Horse Dam & Res | MT | Flathead | S Fork Flathead R | FEI | 2982.0 | 3560.0 | 3336.0 | 23800 | 5400 | PL 78-329 | USBR. |
| Indian Valley Dam & Res | CA | Lake | N Fork Cache Cr | FIMR IMR | 40.0 260.0 | 1485.0 1474.0 | 1474.0 1334.0 | 3975 3734 | 3734 308 | PL 84-984 | Yolo FC&W. |
| Jamestown Dam & Res | ND | Stutsman | James R | F IQ | 185.4 28.1 | 1454.0 1429.8 | 1429.8 1400.0 | 13210 2090 | 2090 160 | PL 78-534 | USBR. |
| Jocassee Dam & Res | SC | Pickens | Keowee R | PRFC | 1160.0 | 1110.0 | 1080.0 | 7565 | 6815 | FERC 2503 | USBR Pwr. |
| Keowee Dam & Lk | SC | Pickens | Keowee R | FPMCAR | 392.0 | 800.0 | 775.0 | 18372 | 13072 | FERC 2503 | Duke Pwr. |
| Kerr Dam Flathead Lk | MT | Lake | Flathead R | FER | 1219.0 | 2893.0 | 2883.0 | 125560 | 120000 | FERC No 5 | MT Pwr. |
| Kerr Dam & Lk Hudson (Markham Ferry Project) | OK | Mayes | Grand Neosho R | F E | 244.2 48.6 | 636.0 619.0 | 619.0 599.0 | 18800 10900 | 10900 4500 | PL 76-476 | GRD Auth. |
| Keyhole Dam & Res | WY | Crook | Belle Fourche R | F IQ | 140.5 185.8 | 4111.5 4099.3 | 4099.3 4051.0 | 13730 9410 | 9410 820 | PL 78-534 | USBR. |
| Kirwin Dam & Res | KS | Phillips | N Fork Solomon R | F ICR | 215.1 89.6 | 1757.3 1729.2 | 1729.3 1697.0 | 10640 5080 | 5080 1010 | PL 78-534 PL 79-732; PL 79-526 | USBR. |
| Lake Kemp Dam & Res | TX | Wichita | Wichita R | F MI | 234.9 268.0 | 1156.0 1144.0 | 1144.0 1114.0 | 23830 15590 | 15590 3350 | SD 144 | WF&C. WID2. |
| Leesville Dam & Res | VA | Campbell Pttsylvnia | Roanoke R | EQ | 37.8 | 613.0 | 600.0 | 3235 | 2400 | Fed Pwr Act | Appl Pwr. |
| Lemon Dam & Res | CO | La Plata | Florida R | FIM | 39.0 | 8148.0 | 8023.0 | 622 | 62 | PL 84-485 | USBR. |
| Lewis M Smith Dam & Res | AL | Walker Culman | Sipsey Fork; Black Warrior R | F E | 280.6 394.3 | 522.0 510.0 | 510.0 488.0 | 25700 21200 | 21200 15097 | Fed Pwr Act | AL Pwr. |
| Little Wood | ID | Blain | Little Wood R | FI | 30.0 | 5237.3 | 5127.4 | 572 | 0 | PL 84-993 | USBR. |
| Logan Martin Dam & Res | AL | Talladega | Cossa R | F E | 245.3 67.0 | 477.0 465.0 | 465.0 460.0 | 26310 15263 | 15260 11887 | PL 83-436 | AL Pwr. |
| Los Banos Dam & Detention | CA | Merced | Los Banos Cr | R | 20.6 | 327.8 | 231.2 | 467 | 0 | USBR. | |
| Los Banos Dam & Detention Res | CA | Merced | Los Banos Cr | F | 14.0 | 353.5 | 327.8 | 619 | 467 | PL 86-488 | USBR. |
| Lost Creek Dam & Res | UT | Morgan | Lost Cr | FEIM | 20.0 | 6005.0 | 5912.0 | 365 | 93 | PL 81-273 | USBR. |
| Lovewell Dam & Res | KS | Jewell | White Rock Cr | F ICR | 50.5 24.9 | 1595.3 1582.6 | 1582.6 1571.7 | 5025 2986 | 2986 1704 | PL 78-534 PL 79-732 | USBR. |
| Marshall Ford Dam & Res | TX | Travis | Colorado R | F NEIM | 779.8 810.5 | 714.0 681.0 | 681.0 618.0 | 29060 18955 | 18955 8050 | PL 73-392 PL 78-534 | LCRA |
| Mayfield Dam & Res | WA | Lewis | Cowlitz R | FER | 21.4 | 425.0 | 415.0 | 2250 | 2030 | FPC No 2016-A | Tac WN. |
| McGee Creek Dam & Res | OK | Atoka | McGee Cr | F MCR | 85.3 108.0 | 595.5 577.7 | 577.1 515.1 | 5540 3810 | 3810 370 | PL 94-423 | USBR. |
| Medicine Cr Dam Harry Strunk Lk | NE | Frontier | Medicine Cr | F ICR | 52.7 26.8 | 2386.2 2366.1 | 2366.1 2343.0 | 3483 1840 | 1840 701 | PL 78-534 PL 84-505 | USBR. |
| Mossyrock Dam Davisson Lk | WA | Lewis | Cowlitz R | FER | 1397.0 | 778.5 | 600.0 | 11830 | 4250 | FERC No 2016-B | Tac, WN |
| Mt Park Dam Tom Steed Res | OK | Kiowa | W Otter Cr | F MRC | 20.3 89.0 | 1414.0 1411.0 | 1411.0 1386.3 | 7130 6400 | 6400 1270 | PL 90-503 | USBR. |
| Navajo Dam & Res | NM | San Juan Rio Arriba | San Juan R | FEIRQ | 1036.1 | 6085.0 | 5990.0 | 15610 | 7400 | PL 84-485 | USBR. |
| New Bullards Bar Dam & Res | CA | Yuba | Yuba R | FEIMR EIMR | 170.0 790.9 | 1956.0 1918.3 | 1918.3 1447.5 | 4809 4225 | 4225 129 | PL 89-298 | YCWA. |
| New Exchequer Dam & Lk | CA | Tuolumne | Merced R | FEIR EIR IR | 400.0 451.6 171.0 | 867.0 799.7 660.0 | 799.7 660.0 467.0 | 7110 4849 1900 | 4849 1900 150 | PL 86-645 | Mrcd, Irr. |
| New Melones Dam & Lk | CA | Tuolumne Calaveras | Stanislaus R | FEIMR EIMR IMR | 450.0 1670.0 300.0 | 1088.0 1049.5 808.0 | 1049.5 808.0 540.0 | 12500 10900 3500 | 10900 3500 0 | PL 87-874 | USBR. |
| Northfield Mt (Up) PS | MA | Franklin | Connecticut | E | 14.0 | 965.0 | 938.0 | 196 | 134 | FERC 1889 | WMEC. |
| Norton Dam & Kieth Sebelius Lk | KS | Norton | Prairie Dog Cr | F IMRC | 98.8 30.7 | 2331.4 2304.3 | 2304.3 2280.4 | 5316 2181 | 2181 587 | PL 78-534 PL 79-526 PL 79-732 | USBR. |
| Ochoco Dam & Res | OR | Crook | Ochoco Cr | FICR | 52.5 | 3136.2 | 0.0 | 1130 | 130 | PL 84-992 | USBR. |
| Oroville Dam & Lk | CA | Butte | Feather R | FEIMAR EIMAR | 750.0 2788.0 | 900.0 848.5 | 848.5 210.0 | 15800 13346 | 13346 0 | PL 85-500 | CA. |
| Pactola Dam & Res | SD | Pennington | Rapid Cr | F IM | 43.1 55.0 | 4621.5 4580.2 | 4580.2 4456.1 | 1230 860 | 860 100 | PL 78-534 | USBR. |
| Palisades Dam & Res | ID | Bonneville | Snake R | FIE | 1202.0 | 5620.0 | 5452.0 | 16100 | 2170 | PL 81-864 | USBR. |
| Paonia Dam & Res | CO | Gunnision | Muddy Cr | FIR | 17.0 | 6447.5 | 6373.0 | 334 | 120 | PL 80-177 PL 84-485 | USBR. |
| Pensacola Dam Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees | OK | Mayes | Grand (Neosho) R | F E | 525.0 1192.0 | 755.0 745.0 | 745.0 705.0 | 59200 46500 | 46500 17000 | PL 77-228 | Grd, Auth. |
| Pineview Dam & Res | UT | Weber | Odgen R | FEIM | 110.0 | 4900.0 | 4818.0 | 2874 | 0 | PL 81-273 | USBR. |
| Platoro Dam & Res | CO | Conejos | Conejos R | F IR | 6.0 54.0 | 10034.0 10027.5 | 10027.5 9911.0 | 947 920 | 920 0 | PL 76-640 | USBR. |
| Priest Rapids Dam & Res | WA | Grant | Columbia R | FER | 44.0 | 488.0 | 481.5 | 7600 | 6500 | FERC No 2114-A | Grnt, PUD. |
| Prineville Dam & Res | OR | Crook | Crooked R | FIRC | 233.0 | 3257.9 | 3114.0 | 3997 | 140 | PL-84-992 | USBR. |
| Prosser Cr Dam & Res | CA | Nevada | Prosser Cr | C FC | 8.6 20.0 | 5703.7 5761.0 | 5661.0 5703.7 | 334 745 | 86 334 | PL 84-858 PL 85-706 | USBR. |
| Pueblo Dam & Res | CO | Pueblo | Arkansas R | F IR | 93.0 261.4 | 4898.7 4880.5 | 4880.5 4764.0 | 5671 4640 | 4640 421 | PL 87-590 | USBR. |
| Red Willow Dam Hugh Butler Lk | NE | Frontier | Red Willow Cr | F IRC | 48.9 27.3 | 2604.9 2581.8 | 2581.8 2558.0 | 2682 1629 | 1629 787 | PL 78-534 PL 85-783 PL 84-505 | USBR. |
| Ririe Dam & Res | ID | Bonneville | Willow Cr | FIRC | 99.0 | 5119.0 | 5023.0 | 150 | 360 | PL 87-874 | USBR. |
| Roanoke Rapids Dam & Res | NC | Halifax | Roanoke R | EC | 16.8 | 132.0 | 128.0 | 4600 | 4100 | FPC 2009 | VA, Pwr. |
| Rocky Reach Dam Lk Entiat | WA | Chelan | Columbia R | FER | 36.0 | 707.0 | 703.0 | 9920 | 9490 | FERC No 2145 | Chln PUD. |
| Rocky River PS Lk Candlewood | CT | Litchfield | Housatonic R | E | 142.5 | 430.0 | 418.0 | 5608 | 4692 | FERC 2576 | CLPC. |
| Ross Dam & Res | WA | Whatcom | Skagit R | E | 1052.0 | 1602.5 | 1475.0 | 11700 | 4450 | FERC 553 | Sttl. |
| Sanford Dam & Lk Meredith | TX | Hutchison | Canadian R | F IMCRQ | 462.1 761.3 | 2965.0 2941.3 | 2941.3 2860.0 | 21640 17320 | 17320 4500 | PL 81-898 | USBR. |
| Savage River Dam & Res | MD | Garrett | Savage R | FMA | 20.0 | 1468.5 | 1317.0 | 366 | 0 | PL 78-534 | Ptmc Comm. |
| Scoggins Dam Henry Hagg Lk | Scoggins Cr | FIR | 56.3 | 305.8 | 235.3 | 116 | 4 | PL 89-596 | USBR. | ||
| Shadehill Dam & Res | SD | Perkins | Grand R | F IQ | 218.3 80.9 | 2302.0 2271.9 | 2271.9 2250.8 | 9900 4800 | 4800 2800 | PL 78-534 | USBR. |
| Shasta Dam Lk | CA | Shasta | Sacramento R | FEIA EIA | 1300.0 3241.0 | 1067.0 1018.6 | 1018.6 735.8 | 29570 23894 | 23894 2200 | PL 75-392 | USBR. |
| Shepaug Dam & Lk | CT | Litchfield | Housatonic R | E | 5.0 | 200.0 | 172.0 | 1882 | 1125 | FERC 2576 | CLPC. |
| Smith Mtn Dam & Res | VA | Bedford Franklin Roanoke Pttsylvnia | Roanoke R | E | 40.8 | 795.0 | 793.0 | 20600 | 20200 | Fed Pwr Act | Appl Pwr. |
| Stampede Dam & Res | CA | Sierra | Little Truckee R | FEM EM | 22.0 199.4 | 5949.0 5942.0 | 5942.1 5798.0 | 3430 3230 | 3230 210 | PL 84-858 | USBR. |
| Starvation Dam and Res | UT | Duchesne | Strawberry R | FIM | 165.3 | 5712.0 | 5595.0 | 3310 | 689 | PL 84-485 | USBR. |
| Stevens Creek Dam & Res | GA | Columbia | Savannah River | P | 10.5 | 187.5 | 183.0 | 4300 | 0 | FERC 2535 | SC E&G. |
| Stevenson Dam Lk Zoar | CT | Litchfield | Housatonic R | E | 5.0 | 108.0 | 80.0 | 1148 | 516 | FERC 2576 | CLPC. |
| Summer Dam & Lk | NM | De Baca | Pecos R | FI | 51.4 | 4261.0 | 4200.0 | 2835 | 0 | PL 83-780 | USBR. |
| Tat Momolikot Dam & Lake | AZ | Pinal | Santa Rosa Wash | FIC | 198.5 | 1539.0 | 1480.0 | 11790 | 0 | PL 89-298 | BIA. |
| Tiber Dam & Res | MT | Libert Toole | Marias R | F FIQ IQ | 400.9 268.0 121.7 | 3012.5 2993.0 2976.0 | 2993.0 2976.0 2966.4 | 23150 17890 13790 | 17890 13790 11710 | PL 78-534 | USBR. |
| Trenton Dam & Res | NB | Hitchcock | Republican R | F IRC | 134.1 99.8 | 2773.0 2752.0 | 2752.0 2720.0 | 7940 4922 | 4922 1572 | PL 78-534 PL 84-505 | USBR. |
| Turners Falls (Low) Dam & Lk | MA | Franklin | Connecticut R | E | 8.7 | 185.0 | 176.0 | 2110 | 1880 | FERC 1889 | WMEC |
| Twin Buttes Dam & Lake | TX | Tom Green | Concho R | F IM | 454.4 150.0 | 1969.1 1940.2 | 1940.2 1885.0 | 23510 9080 | 23510 670 | PL 85-152 PL 78-534 | USBR |
| Twitchell Dam & Res | CA | Santa Barbara | Cuyama R | F IM | 89.8 135.6 | 651.5 623.0 | 623.0 504.0 | 3671 2556 | 2556 0 | PL 83-774 | USBR |
| Upper Baker Dam Baker Lk | WA | Whatcom | Baker R | FE | 184.6 | 724.0 | 674.0 | 4985 | 2375 | PL 89-298 FERC 2150B | Pgt P&L |
| Vallecito Dam & Res | CO | La Plata | Los Pinos R | FEI | 125.4 | 7665.0 | 7582.5 | 2720 | 350 | PL 61-288 PL 68-292 | USBR |
| Vernon Dam & Lk | VT | Windham | Connecticut R | E | 18.3 | 220.1 | 212.1 | 2550 | 1980 | FERC 1904 | NEPC |
| Wanapum Dam & Res | WA | Grant | Columbia R | FER | 151.6 | 571.5 | 560.0 | 14300 | 13350 | FERC No 2114-B | Grnt PUD |
| Wanship Dam & Rockport | UT | Summit | Weber R | FEIM | 61.0 | 6037.0 | 5930.0 | 1077 | 121 | PL 81-273 | USBR |
| Warm Springs Dam & Res | OR | Malheur | Middle Fork Malheur R | FICR | 191.0 | 3406.0 | 3327.0 | 460 | 90 | PL 78-534 | Vale USBR |
| Waterbury Dam & Res | VT | Washington | Little R | FP | 27.7 | 617.5 | 592.0 | 1330 | 890 | PL 78-534 | VT |
| Webster Dam & Res | KS | Rocks | S Fork Solomon R | F IRC | 183.4 72.1 | 1923.7 1892.5 | 1892.5 1860.0 | 8480 3772 | 3772 906 | PL 78-534 PL 79-526 PL 79-732 | USBR |
| Weiss Dam & Res | AL | Cherokee | Coosa R | F E | 397.0 148.4 | 574.0 564.0 | 564.0 558.0 | 50000 30200 | 30200 19545 | PL 83-436 | AL Pwr |
| Wells Dam L Pateros | WA | Douglas | Columbia R | FER | 74.0 | 781.0 | 771.0 | 10000 | 8000 | FERC No 2149 | Dgls PUD |
| Wilder Dam & Lk | VT | Windsor | Connecticut R | E | 13.3 | 385.0 | 380.0 | 3100 | 2240 | FERC 1893 | NEPC |
| Yellowtail Dam & Bighorn Lk | MT | Big Horn | Bighorn R | F FEIQ EIQ | 258.3 240.3 336.1 | 3657.0 3640.0 3614.0 | 3640.0 3614.0 3547.0 | 17280 12600 6915 | 12600 6915 4150 | PL 78-534 | USBR PUD |
1 Cr – Creek; CS – Control Structure; Div – Diversion; DS – Drainage Structure; FG – Floodgate; Fk – Fork; GIWW – Gulf Intercoastal Waterway; Lk – Lake; L&D – Lock & Dam; PS – Pump Station; R – River; Res – Reservoir
2 F – Flood Control; N – Navigation; P – Corps Hydropower; E – Non Corps Hydropower; I – Irrigation; M – Municipal and/or Industrial Water Supply; C – Fish and Wildlife Conservation; A – Low Flow Augmentation or Pollution Abatement; R – Recreation; Q – Water Quality or Silt Control
3 FCA – Flood Control Act; FERC – Federal Energy Regulatory Comm; HD – House Document; PL – Public Law; PW – Public Works; RHA – River & Harbor Act; SD – Senate Document; WSA – Water Supply Act
4 Appl Pwr – Appalachian Power; Chln PUD – Chelan Cnty PUD 1; CLPC – CT Light & Power Co; Dgls PUD – Douglas Cnty PUD 1; DWR – Department of Water Resources; EB-MUD – East Bay Municipal Utility Dist; GRD – Grand River Dam Auth; Grnt PUD – Grant Cnty PUD 2; Hnbl – city of Hannibal; LCRA – Lower Colorado River Authority; M&T Irr – Modesto & Turlock Irr; Mrcd Irr – Merced Irr; NEPC – New England Power Co; Pgnt P&L – Pugent Sound Power & Light; Ptmc Comm – Upper Potomac R Comm; Rclm B – Reclamation Board; Rkfd – city of Rockford; Sttl – city of Seattle; Tac – City of Tacoma; Vale USBR – 50% Vale Irr 50% USBR; WF&CWID – City of Wichita Falls and Wichita Cnty Water Improvement District No. 2; WMEC – Western MA Electric Co; YCWA – Yuba City Water Auth; Yolo FC&W – Yolo Flood Control & Water Conserv Dist.
§ 208.19 Marshall Ford Dam and Reservoir (Mansfield Dam and Lake Travis), Colorado River, Texas.
In the interest of flood control, the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) shall operate the Marshall Ford Dam and Reservoir in accordance with the water control plan of regulation most recently approved by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), effective on the date specified in the approval. Information regarding the most recently approved water control plan of regulation may be obtained by contacting the LCRA offices in Austin, Texas, or the offices of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Worth Engineer District, in Fort Worth, Texas.
§ 208.22 Twin Buttes Dam and Reservoir, Middle and South Concho Rivers, Tex.
The Bureau of Reclamation, or its designated agent, shall operate the Twin Buttes Dam and Reservoir in the interest of flood control as follows:
(a) Whenever the Twin Buttes Reservoir level is between elevations 1,940.2 (top of conservation pool) and elevation 1,969.1 (top of flood control pool) the flood control discharge facilities shall be operated under the direction of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, so as to reduce as much as practicable the flood damage below the reservoir. All flood control releases shall be made in amounts which, when combined with releases from San Angelo Reservoir on the North Concho River and local inflow below the dam, will not produce flows in excess of bankful capacities on the South Concho and Concho Rivers downstream of the reservoir. In order to accomplish this purpose, flows shall not exceed a 22.5-foot stage (25,000 c.f.s.) on the USGS gage on the Concho River near San Angelo, Tex. (river mile 60.9); or a 22.8-foot stage (25,000 c.f.s.) on the USGS gage near Paint Rock, Tex. (river mile 19.6).
(b) When the Twin Buttes Reservoir level exceeds elevation 1,969.1 (top of flood control pool), releases shall be made at the maximum rate possible and continued until the pool elevation recedes to elevation 1,969.1 when releases shall be made to equal inflow or the maximum release permissible under paragraph (a) of this section, whichever is greater.
(c) The representative of the Bureau of Reclamation in immediate charge of operation of the Twin Buttes Dam shall furnish daily to the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, a report, on forms provided by the District Engineer for this purpose, showing (1) for Twin Buttes Reservoir, the elevation of the reservoir level; number of river outlet works gates in operation with their respective openings and releases; uncontrolled spillway releases; storage; reservoir inflow; available evaporation data; and precipitation in inches; and (2) for Nasworthy Reservoir, the elevation of the reservoir level; irrigation outlet works and controlled spillway releases; storage; tailwater elevation; and reservoir inflow. Normally, one reading at 8 a.m. shall be shown for each day. Readings of all items except evaporation shall be shown for at least three observations a day when the Twin Buttes Reservoir level is above elevation 1,940.2. Whenever the Twin Buttes Reservoir level rises to elevation 1,940.2 and releases for flood regulation are necessary or appear imminent, the Bureau representative shall report at once to the District Engineer by telephone or telegraph and, unless otherwise instructed, shall report once daily thereafter in that manner until the reservoir level recedes to elevation 1,940.2. These latter reports shall reach the District Engineer by 9 a.m. each day.
(d) The regulations of this section insofar as they govern use of the flood control storage capacity in Twin Buttes Reservoir above elevation 1,940.2 are subject to temporary modification in time of flood by the District Engineer, if found desirable on the basis of conditions at the time. Such desired modifications shall be communicated to the representative of the Bureau of Reclamation in immediate charge of operations of the Twin Buttes Dam by any available means of communication and shall be confirmed in writing under date of the same day to the Regional Director in charge of the locality, with a copy to the representative in charge of the Twin Buttes Dam.
(e) Flood control operation shall not restrict releases necessary for municipal, industrial, and irrigation uses.
(f) Releases made in accordance with the regulations of this section are subject to the condition that releases shall not be made at rates or in a manner that would be inconsistent with emergency requirements for protecting the Twin Buttes Dam and Reservoir from major damage or inconsistent with safe routing of the inflow design flood (spillway design flood).
(g) The discharge characteristics of the river outlet works (capable of discharging approximately 32,470 c.f.s. with the reservoir level at elevation 1,969.1) shall be maintained in accordance with the construction plans (Bureau of Reclamation Specifications No. DC-5274 as modified by revised drawings and criteria in Designers’ Operating Criteria, Twin Buttes Dam, dated February 1963).
(h) All elevations stated in this section are at Twin Buttes Dam and are referred to the datum in use at that location.
§ 208.25 Pensacola Dam and Reservoir, Grand (Neosho) River, Okla.
The representative of the agency charged with the operation of the Pensacola Dam, referred to in this section as the Representative shall operate the dam and reservoir in the interest of flood control as follows:
(a) Whenever the pool stage exceeds elevation 745 at the dam, the discharge facilities shall be operated under the direction of the District Engineer, Engineer Department at Large, in charge of the locality, so as to reduce as much as practicable the flood damage below the reservoir and to limit the pool stage to elevation 755 at the dam.
(b) The District Engineer will advise the Representative when inflow rates are anticipated which will raise the pool above elevation 745 at the dam. The District Engineer will also advise the Representative of essential increase in the flood control storage capacity of the reservoir which should be provided by drawing the pool down below elevation 745 at the dam in order to obtain maximum flood control benefits, with the provision that the suggested reduction in power storage shall at no time exceed the replacement volume of flow then in sight in the streams above the reservoir.
(c) The Representative shall furnish the District Engineer, daily, a report showing the elevation of the reservoir pool and the tailwater, number of gates in operation, spillway and turbine releases, evaporation, storage, reservoir inflow, and precipitation in inches as shown by Agency gages. One reading shall be shown for each day with additional readings of releases for all changes in spillway gate operation, and with readings of all items except evaporation three times daily when the District Engineer advises the Representative that flood conditions are imminent. By agreement between the Representative and the District Engineer, any of the foregoing information may be furnished by telephone and may, if agreed upon, be omitted from the report. Whenever the pool is above elevation 745 at the dam the Representative shall submit additional reports by telegraph or telephone as directed by the District Engineer, with a report to be furnished immediately whenever the pool rises above elevation 745 at the dam.
(d) The District Engineer will furnish the Representative with all available information and detailed instructions for operation of the reservoir in the interest of flood control during an emergency condition when communications between the dam and the District Office are broken. In the event that the District Engineer or his authorized representative cannot be reached by telephone, telegraph or by other means during a flood emergency, these instructions will govern. The provisions of paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) of this section will govern at all times except during such an emergency.
(e) Elevations stated in this section are referred to Pensacola datum which is 1.07 feet below mean sea level.
§ 208.26 Altus Dam and Reservoir, North Fork Red River, Okla.
The Bureau of Reclamation, or its designated agent, shall operate the Altus Dam and Reservoir in the interest of flood control as follows:
(a) Flood control storage in the reservoir between elevation 1559 (top of conservation pool) and elevation 1562 (top of flood control pool) amounts to 21,448 acre-feet (based on 1953 sedimentation survey). Whenever the reservoir level is within this elevation range, the flood control discharge facilities shall be operated under the direction of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, so as to reduce as much as practicable the flood damage below the dam, and to limit the reservoir level to elevation 1562 when possible.
(b) When the reservoir level is below elevation 1559 and the predicted volume of runoff from the area above the dam exceeds the volume of water necessary to raise the reservoir level above elevation 1559, the reservoir will be operated to obtain maximum overall benefits which may consist of preflood releases: Provided, That all preflood releases will have prior concurrence of the Bureau of Reclamation or its designated agent. The preflood releases shall not result in a reservoir level below elevation 1559 at the end of the flood.
(c) When the reservoir level exceeds elevation 1559, releases will be made equal to inflow or 2,000 c.f.s., whichever is smaller, except that when the reservoir elevation forecast indicates that this operation will result in a reservoir level exceeding elevation 1562, releases will be increased in order to provide maximum overall benefits and prevent the reservoir level from exceeding elevation 1562, insofar as possible. The flood control pool will be emptied by continuing the peak discharge rate until the reservoir level recedes to elevation 1559, at which time releases will be made equal to inflow.
(d) If the reservoir level exceeds elevation 1562 (top of flood control pool) releases shall be made at the maximum rate possible through the spillway gates, conduit, and the uncontrolled spillway and continued until the reservoir level recedes to elevation 1559, at which time releases will be made equal to inflow.
(e) Whenever the reservoir level is above elevation 1559 and communication with the Bureau of Reclamation Regional Office and the Corps of Engineers District Office is unobtainable, releases shall be made equal to inflow until all gates are fully open. The maximum release thus obtained shall be maintained until the pool recedes to elevation 1559 at which time releases shall be made to equal inflow.
(f) The representative of the Bureau of Reclamation, or its designated agent, in immediate charge of the operation of Altus Dam will furnish daily to the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, a report on forms provided by the District for this purpose, showing the reservoir pool elevation; the number of spillway gates in operation with their respective opening and releases; the uncontrolled spillway release; conduit, canal outlet wasteway, and irrigation releases; storage; reservoir inflow; available evaporation data; and precipitation in inches. A reading at 8 a.m., noon, 4 p.m., and midnight, shall be shown for each day. Whenever the reservoir level rises to elevation 1559 and releases for flood control regulation are necessary or appear imminent, the representative of the Bureau of Reclamation or its designated agent, shall report at once to the District Engineer by telephone or telegraph and, unless otherwise instructed, shall report at 8 a.m., noon, and 3 p.m. thereafter, in that manner, until the reservoir level recedes to elevation 1559. These latter reports shall reach the District Engineer by 9 a.m., 1 p.m., and 4 p.m. each day.
(g) The regulations of this section, insofar as they govern use of the flood control storage capacity above elevation 1559 are subject to temporary modification by the District Engineer in time of flood, if found desirable on the basis of conditions at the time. Such desired modifications shall be coordinated with and approved by the Bureau of Reclamation.
(h) Flood control operation shall not restrict releases necessary for irrigation, municipal, and industrial uses.
(i) Releases made in accordance with the regulations of this section are subject to the conditions that releases shall not be made at rates or in a manner that would be inconsistent with emergency requirements for protecting the dam and reservoir from major damage.
(j) Any time that the Bureau of Reclamation determines that operation in accordance with the regulations of this section will jeopardize the safety of Altus Dam, they will so advise the District Engineer and will assume operational responsibility and take action necessary to assure the safety of the dam.
(k) The discharge characteristics of the controlled and the uncontrolled spillways (capable of discharging approximately 42,800 c.f.s. and 2,000 c.f.s., respectively, with the reservoir level at elevation 1562) shall be maintained in accordance with the construction plans (Bureau of Reclamation Drawing No. 258-D-69).
(l) All elevations stated in this section are at Altus Dam and are referred to the datum in use at that location.
§ 208.27 Fort Cobb Dam and Reservoir, Pond (Cobb) Creek, Oklahoma.
The Bureau of Reclamation shall operate the Fort Cobb Dam and Reservoir in the interest of flood control as follows:
(a) Whenever the reservoir level is between elevation 1342.0, top of the conservation pool, and elevation 1354.8, top of flood control pool, the flood control discharge facilities shall be operated under the direction of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, so as to reduce as much as practicable the flood damage below the reservoir. All flood control releases shall be made in amounts which, when combined with local inflow below the dam, will not produce flows in excess of bankfull on Pond (Cobb) Creek downstream of the reservoir and on the Washita River downstream of their confluence. In order to accomplish this purpose, flows shall not exceed a 13.0-foot stage (1,300 cfs) on the USGS gage on Pond (Cobb) Creek near Fort Cobb, Oklahoma, river mile 5.0; a 19.0-foot stage (6,000 cfs) on the USGS gage on the Washita River near Anadarko, Oklahoma, river mile 305.0; or a 19.0-foot stage on the USGS gage near Bradley, Oklahoma, river mile 210.6.
(b) When the reservoir level exceeds elevation 1354.8, top of flood control pool, releases shall be made at the maximum rate possible and continued until the pool elevation recedes to elevation 1354.8 when releases shall be made to equal inflow or the maximum release permissible under paragraph (a) of this section, whichever is greater.
(c) The representative of the Bureau of Reclamation in immediate charge of operation of the Fort Cobb Dam shall furnish daily to the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, a report, on forms provided by the District Engineer showing the elevation of the reservoir level; number of river outlet works gates in operation with their respective openings and releases; uncontrolled spillway and municipal outlet works release; storage; tailwater elevation; reservoir inflow; available evaporation data; and precipitation in inches. Normally, one reading at 8:00 a.m., shall be shown for each day. Readings of all items except evaporation shall be shown for at least three observations a day when the reservoir level is above elevation 1342.0. Whenever the reservoir level rises to elevation 1342.0 and releases for flood regulation are necessary or appear imminent, the Bureau representative shall report at once to the District Engineer by telephone or telegraph and, unless otherwise instructed, shall report once daily thereafter in that manner until the reservoir level recedes to elevation 1342.0. These latter reports shall reach the District Engineer by 9:00 a.m., each day.
(d) The regulations of this section insofar as they govern use of the flood control storage capacity above elevation 1342.0 are subject to temporary modification in time of flood by the District Engineer if found desirable on the basis of conditions at the time. Such desired modifications shall be communicated to the representative of the Bureau of Reclamation in immediate charge of operations of the Fort Cobb Dam by any available means of communication and shall be confirmed in writing under date of the same day to the Regional Director in charge of the locality, with a copy to the representative in charge of the Fort Cobb Dam.
(e) Flood control operation shall not restrict releases necessary for municipal-industrial and irrigation uses:
(f) Releases made in accordance with the regulations of this section are subject to the condition that releases shall not be made at rates or in a manner that would be inconsistent with emergency requirements for protecting the dam and reservoir from major damage or inconsistent with safe routing of the inflow design flood.
(g) All elevations stated in this section are at Fort Cobb Dam and are referred to the datum in use at that location.
§ 208.28 Foss Dam and Reservoir, Washita River, Oklahoma.
The Bureau of Reclamation shall operate the Foss Dam and Reservoir in the interest of flood control as follows:
(a) Whenever the reservoir level is between elevation 1652.0, top of conservation pool, and elevation 1668.6, top of flood control pool, the flood control discharge facilities shall be operated under the direction of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, so as to reduce as much as practicable the flood damage below the reservoir. All flood control releases shall be made in amounts which, when combined with local inflow below the dam, will not produce flows in excess of bankfull on the Washita River downstream of the reservoir. In order to accomplish this purpose, flows shall not exceed an 18.0 foot stage (3,000 c.f.s.) on the USGS gage on the Washita River near Clinton, Oklahoma, river mile 447.4, or an 18.0 foot stage (6,000 c.f.s.) on the USGS gage on the Washita River near Carnegie, Oklahoma, river mile 353.9.
(b) When the reservoir level exceeds elevation 1668.6, top of flood control pool, releases shall be made at the maximum rate possible through the river outlet works and uncontrolled spillway and continued until the pool elevation recedes to elevation 1668.6 when releases shall be made to equal inflow or the maximum release permissible under paragraph (a) of this section, whichever is greater.
(c) The representative of the Bureau of Reclamation in immediate charge of operation of the Foss Dam shall furnish daily to the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, on forms provided by the District Engineer for this purpose, a report, showing the elevation of the reservoir level; number of river outlet works gates in operation with their respective openings and releases; canal outlet works, municipal outlet works and uncontrolled spillway releases; storage; tailwater elevation; reservoir inflow; available evaporation data; and precipitation in inches. Normally, one reading at 8:00 a.m. shall be shown for each day. Readings of all items except evaporation shall be shown for at least three observations a day when the reservoir level is above elevation 1652.0. Whenever the reservoir level rises to elevation 1652.0 and releases for flood regulation are necessary or appear imminent, the Bureau representative shall report at once to the District Engineer by telephone or telegraph and, unless otherwise instructed, shall report once daily thereafter in that manner until the reservoir level recedes to elevation 1652.0. These latter reports shall reach the District Engineer by 9:00 a.m., each day.
(d) The regulations of this section insofar as they govern use of the flood control storage capacity above elevation 1652.0 are subject to temporary modification in time of flood by the District Engineer if found desirable on the basis of conditions at the time. Such desired modifications shall be communicated to the representative of the Bureau of Reclamation in immediate charge of operations of the Foss Dam by any available means of communication and shall be confirmed in writing under date of the same day to the Regional Director in charge of the locality, with a copy to the representative in charge of the Foss Dam.
(e) Flood control operations shall not restrict releases necessary for municipal-industrial and irrigation uses.
(f) Releases made in accordance with the regulations of this section are subject to the condition that releases shall not be made at rates or in a manner that would be inconsistent with emergency requirements for protecting the dam and reservoir from major damage or inconsistent with safe routing of the inflow design flood.
(g) All elevations stated in this section are at Foss Dam and are referred to the datum in use at that location.
§ 208.29 Arbuckle Dam and Lake of the Arbuckles, Rock Creek, Okla.
The Bureau of Reclamation, or its designated agent, shall operate the Arbuckle Dam and Lake of the Arbuckles in the interest of flood control as follows:
(a) Flood control storage in Lake of the Arbuckles between elevation 872 (top of conservation pool) and elevation 885.3 (top of flood control pool) initially amounts to 36,400 acre-feet. Whenever the lake level is within this elevation range the flood control discharge facilities shall be operated under the direction of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, so as to reduce as much as practicable of the flood damage below the lake. In order to accomplish this purpose, flood control releases shall be limited to amounts, which when combined with local inflows below the dam will not produce flows in excess of bankfull on Rock Creek downstream of the lake and on the Washita River, from the confluence of Rock Creek to Durwood, Okla. Operating stages and corresponding flows are as follows: An 11-foot stage (15,000 c.f.s.) on the U.S.G.S. gage on Rock Creek near Dougherty, Okla., river mile 1; and a 20-foot stage (15,000 c.f.s.) on the U.S.G.S. gage on the Washita River near Durwood, Okla., river mile 63.4.
(b) When the level in Lake of the Arbuckles exceeds elevation 885.3 (top of flood control pool), releases shall be made at the maximum rate possible through the river outlet works and the uncontrolled spillway and continued until the lake level recedes to elevation 885.3 when releases shall be made to equal inflow or the maximum release permissible under paragraph (a) of this section, whichever is greater.
(c) The representative of the Bureau of Reclamation or its designated agent in immediate charge of operation of the Arbuckle Dam shall furnish daily to the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, a report, on forms provided by the District Engineer for this purpose, showing the lake elevation; the number of river outlet works gates in operation with their respective openings and releases; uncontrolled spillway release; municipal pumping rate; tailwater elevation; available evaporation data; and precipitation in inches. Normally, a reading at 8 a.m., noon, 4 p.m., and midnight shall be shown for each day. Whenever the lake level rises to elevation 872 and releases for flood regulation are necessary or appear imminent, the representative of the Bureau of Reclamation or its designated agent, shall report at once to the District Engineer by telephone or telegraph and unless otherwise instructed shall report once daily thereafter in that manner until the lake level recedes to elevation 872. These latter reports shall reach the District Engineer by 9 a.m. each day.
(d) The regulations of this section, insofar as they govern use of flood control storage capacity above elevation 872, are subject to temporary modification in time of flood by the District Engineer if found desirable on the basis of conditions at the time. Such desired modifications shall be communicated to the representative of the Bureau of Reclamation and its designated agent in immediate charge of operation of the Arbuckle Dam by any available means of communication, and shall be confirmed in writing under date of the same day to the Regional Director in charge of the locality, and his designated agent, with a copy to the representative in charge of the Arbuckle Dam.
(e) Flood control operation shall not restrict pumping necessary for municipal and industrial uses and releases necessary for downstream users.
(f) Releases made in accordance with the regulations of this section are subject to the condition that releases shall not be made at rates or in a manner that would be inconsistent with emergency requirements for protecting the dam and lake from major damage or inconsistent with the safe routing of the inflow design flood (spillway design flood).
(g) The discharge characteristics of the river outlet works (capable of discharging approximately 1,880 c.f.s. when the lake level is at 872) shall be maintained in accordance with the construction plans (Bureau of Reclamation Specifications No. 6099 as modified by the “as built” drawings).
(h) All elevations stated in this section are at Arbuckle Dam and are referred to the datum in use at that location.
§ 208.32 Sanford Dam and Lake Meredith, Canadian River, Tex.
The Bureau of Reclamation, or its designated agent, shall operate the Sanford Dam and Lake Meredith in the interest of flood control as follows:
(a) Flood control storage in the reservoir, Lake Meredith, between elevation 2941.3 (top of conservation pool) and elevation 2965.0 (top of flood control pool) initially amounts to 462,100 acre-feet. Whenever the reservoir level is within this elevation range, the flood control discharge facilities shall be operated under the direction of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, so as to reduce as much as practicable the flood damage below the reservoir. All flood control releases shall be made in amounts which, when combined with local inflow below the dam, will not produce flows in excess of bankfull on the Canadian River downstream of the reservoir. In order to accomplish this purpose, flows shall not exceed 25,000 c.f.s. at the Sanford Dam site or an 8.0-foot stage (75,000 c.f.s.) on the U.S.G.S. gage on the Canadian River near Canadian, Tex., river mile 433.9.
(b) When the reservoir level exceeds elevation 2965.0 (top of flood control pool) releases shall be made at the maximum rate possible through the flood control outlet works, the river outlet works and the uncontrolled spillway and continue until the pool level recedes to elevation 2965.0 when releases will be made to equal inflow or the maximum release permissible under paragraph (a) of this section, whichever is greater.
(c) The representative of the Bureau of Reclamation, or its designated agent in immediate charge of operation of the Sanford Dam will furnish daily to the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, a report, on forms provided by the District Engineer for this purpose showing the pool elevation; the number of flood control outlet works gates in operation with their respective openings and releases; the uncontrolled spillway release; and the municipal outlet works release; storage; tailwater elevation; reservoir inflow; available evaporation data; and precipitation in inches. Normally a reading at 8 a.m., noon, 4 p.m., and midnight, shall be shown for each day. Readings of all items except evaporation shall be shown for at least four observations a day when the reservoir level is at or above elevation 2941.3. Whenever the reservoir level rises to elevation 2941.3 and releases for flood regulation are necessary or appear imminent, the representative of the Bureau of Reclamation, or its designated agent, shall report at once to the District Engineer by telephone or telegraph and, unless otherwise instructed, will report once daily thereafter in that manner until the reservoir level recedes to elevation 2941.3. These latter reports shall reach the District Engineer by 9 a.m. each day.
(d) The regulations of this section, insofar as they govern use of the flood control storage capacity above elevation 2941.3, are subject to temporary modification in time of flood by the District Engineer if found desirable on the basis of conditions at the time. Such desired modifications shall be communicated to the representative of the Bureau of Reclamation and its designated agent in immediate charge of operation of the Sanford Dam by the best available means of communication, and shall be confirmed in writing under date of the same day to the Regional Director in charge of the locality, and his designated agent, with a copy to the representative in charge of the Sanford Dam.
(e) Flood control operation shall not restrict pumping necessary for municipal and industrial uses and releases necessary for downstream users.
(f) Release made in accordance with the regulations of this section are subject to the condition that releases shall not be made at rates or in a manner that would be inconsistent with emergency requirements for protecting the dam and reservoir from major damage or inconsistent with the safe routing of the inflow design flood (spillway design flood).
(g) The discharge characteristics of the flood control outlet works (capable of discharging approximately 22,000 c.f.s. with the reservoir level at elevation 2941.3) shall be maintained in accordance with the construction plans (Bureau of Reclamation Specifications No. DC-5725 as modified by revised drawings and criteria in Designers’ Operating Criteria, Sanford Dam, dated October 1965).
(h) All elevations stated in this section are at Sanford Dam and are referred to the datum in use at that location.
§ 208.33 Cheney Dam and Reservoir, North Fork of Ninnescah River, Kans.
The Bureau of Reclamation, or its designated agent, shall operate the Cheney Dam and Reservoir in the interest of flood control as follows:
(a) Flood control storage in the reservoir is the capacity between elevation 1421.6 (top of the conservation pool) and elevation 1429.0 (top of the flood control pool), and initially amounts to 80,860 acre-feet. Whenever the reservoir level is within this range the flood control discharge facilities shall be operated under the direction of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, so as to reduce as much as practicable the flood damage below the reservoir. All flood control releases shall be made in amounts which, when combined with local inflow below the dam, will not produce flows in excess of bankfull on the North Fork of Ninnescah and Ninnescah River downstream of the reservoir and on the Arkansas River to Arkansas City, Kans. In order to accomplish this, flows shall not exceed a 90-foot stage (2,500 c.f.s.) on the U.S.G.S. gage on North Fork of Ninnescah River near Cheney, Kans., river mile 8.8; a 12-foot stage (7,000 c.f.s.) on the U.S.G.S. gage on Ninnescah River near Peck, Kans., river mile 31.6; and a 16-foot stage (18,000 c.f.s.) on the U.S.W.B. gage on Arkansas River at Arkansas City, Kans., river mile 701.4.
(b) When the reservoir level exceeds elevation 1429.0 (top of flood control pool), releases shall be made at the maximum rate possible through the river outlet works and the uncontrolled spillway and continued until the pool recedes to elevation 1429.0 when releases shall be made to equal inflow or the maximum release permissible under paragraph (a) of this section, whichever is greater.
(c) The representative of the Bureau of Reclamation or its designated agent in immediate charge of operation of the Cheney Dam shall furnish daily to the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, a report, on forms provided by the District Engineer for this purpose, showing the pool elevation; the number of river outlet works gates in operation with their respective openings and releases; uncontrolled spillway release; municipal pumping rate; storage; tailwater elevation; reservoir inflow; available evaporation data; and precipitation in inches. Normally, a reading at 8 a.m., noon, 4 p.m., and midnight, shall be shown for each day. Whenever the reservoir pool rises to elevation 1421.6 and releases for flood regulation are necessary or appear imminent, the representative of the Bureau of Reclamation or its designated agent, shall report at once to the District Engineer by telephone or telegraph, and, unless otherwise instructed, shall report once daily thereafter in that manner until the reservoir pool recedes to elevation 1421.6. These latter reports shall reach the District Engineer by 9 a.m. each day.
(d) The regulations of this section, insofar as they govern use of flood control storage capacity above elevation 1421.6, are subject to temporary modification in time of flood by the District Engineer if found desirable on the basis of conditions at the time. Such desired modifications shall be communicated to the representative of the Bureau of Reclamation and its designated agent in immediate charge of operations of the Cheney Dam by any available means of communication, and shall be confirmed in writing under date of the same day to the Regional Director in charge of the locality, and his designated agent, with a copy to the representative in charge of the Cheney Dam.
(e) Flood control operation shall not restrict pumping necessary for municipal and industrial uses and releases necessary for downstream users.
(f) Releases made in accordance with the regulations of this section are subject to the condition that releases shall not be made at rates or in a manner that would be inconsistent with emergency requirements for protecting the dam and reservoir from major damage or inconsistent with the safe routing of the inflow design flood (spillway design flood).
(g) The discharge characteristics of the river outlet works (capable of discharging approximately 3,590 c.f.s. with the reservoir level at elevation 1421.6) shall be maintained in accordance with the construction plans (Bureau of Reclamation Specifications No. DC-5744 as modified by revised drawings and criteria in Designers’ Operating Criteria, Cheney Dam, dated November 1964).
(h) All elevations stated in this section are at Cheney Dam and are referred to the datum in use at that location.
§ 208.34 Norman Dam and Lake Thunderbird, Little River, Okla.
The Bureau of Reclamation, or its designated agent, shall operate Norman Dam and Lake Thunderbird in the interest of flood control as follows:
(a) Flood control storage in Lake Thunderbird between elevation 1039 (top of the conservation pool) and elevation 1049.4 (top of flood control pool) initially amounts to 76,600 acre-feet. Whenever the reservoir level is within this elevation range the flood control discharge facilities at Norman Dam shall be operated under the direction of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, so as to reduce as much as practicable the flood damage below the reservoir. In order to accomplish this purpose, flood control releases shall be limited to amounts which, when combined with local inflows below the dam, will not produce flows in excess of bankfull on the Little River downstream of the reservoir. Controlling bankfull stages and corresponding flows, as presently estimated, are as follows: A 7.5-foot stage (1,800 c.f.s.) on the U.S.G.S. gage on Little River near Tecumseh, Okla., river mile 77.2 and a 17-foot stage (6,500 c.f.s.) on the U.S.G.S. gage on Little River near Sasakwa, Okla., river mile 24.1.
(b) When the reservoir level in Lake Thunderbird exceeds elevation 1049.4 (top of flood control pool), releases shall be made at the maximum rate possible through the river outlet works and the uncontrolled spillway and continued until the pool recedes to elevation 1049.4 when releases shall be made to equal inflow or the maximum release permissible under paragraph (a) of this section, whichever is greater.
(c) The representative of the Bureau of Reclamation or its designated agent in immediate charge of operation of the Norman Dam shall furnish daily to the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality, a report, on forms provided by the District Engineer showing the pool elevation; the number of river outlet works gates in operation with their respective openings and releases; uncontrolled spillway release; municipal pumping rate; storage; tail water elevation; reservoir inflow; available evaporation data; and precipitation in inches. Normally, a reading at 8 a.m., noon, 4 p.m. and midnight, shall be shown for each day. Whenever the reservoir level rises to elevation 1039 and releases for flood regulation are necessary or appear imminent, the representative of the Bureau of Reclamation or its designated agent, shall report at once to the District Engineer by telephone or telegraph and, unless otherwise instructed, shall report once daily thereafter in that manner until the reservoir level recedes to elevation 1039. These latter reports shall reach the District Engineer by 9 a.m. each day.
(d) The regulations of this section, insofar as they govern use of flood control storage capacity above elevation 1039.0, are subject to temporary modification in time of flood by the District Engineer if found desirable on the basis of conditions at the time. Such desired modifications shall be communicated to the representative of the Bureau of Reclamation and its designated agent in immediate charge of operations of the Norman Dam by any available means of communication, and shall be confirmed in writing under date of the same day to the Regional Director in charge of the locality, and his designated agent, with a copy to the representative in charge of the Norman Dam.
(e) Flood control operation shall not restrict pumping necessary for municipal and industrial uses and releases necessary for downstream users.
(f) Releases made in accordance with the regulations of this section are subject to the condition that releases shall not be made at rates or in a manner that would be inconsistent with emergency requirements for protecting the dam and reservoir from major damage or inconsistent with the safe routing of the inflow design flood (spillway design flood).
(g) The discharge characteristics of the river outlet works (capable of discharging approximately 5,400 c.f.s. with the reservoir level at elevation 1039.0) shall be maintained in accordance with the construction plans (Bureau of Reclamation Specifications No. DC-5793 as revised by the “as built drawings”).
(h) All elevations stated in this section are at Norman Dam and are referred to the datum in use at that location.
§ 208.82 Hetch Hetchy, Cherry Valley, and Don Pedro Dams and Reservoirs.
The Turlock Irrigation District and Modesto Irrigation District, acting jointly, hereinafter called the Districts, shall operate Don Pedro Dam and Reservoir in the interest of flood control, and the City and County of San Francisco, hereinafter called the City, shall operate Hetch Hetchy Dam and Reservoir and Cherry Valley Dam and Reservoir in the interest of flood control all as follows:
(a) Storage space in Don Pedro Reservoir shall be kept available for flood-control purposes in accordance with the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram currently in force for that reservoir, except when storage of floodwater is necessary as prescribed in paragraph (d) of this section. The Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram in force as of the promulgation of this section is that dated 4 April 1956, File No. TU-1-26-7, and is on file in the Office of the Chief of Engineers, Department of the Army, Washington, D.C., in the office of the Turlock Irrigation District, Turlock, California, and in the office of the Modesto Irrigation District, Modesto, California. Revisions of the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram may be developed from time to time as necessary by the Corps of Engineers and the Districts. Each such revision shall be effective upon the date specified in the approval thereof by the Chief of Engineers and by the presidents of the Districts and from that date until replaced shall be the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram currently in force for the purpose of this section. Copies of the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram currently in force shall be kept on file in and may be obtained from the office of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, in charge of the locality, the office of the Turlock Irrigation District, Turlock, California, and the office of the Modesto Irrigation District, Modesto, California.
(b) Storage space in Hetch Hetchy Reservoir shall be kept available for flood-control purposes in accordance with the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram for that reservoir currently in force, except when storage of floodwater is necessary as prescribed in paragraph (e) of this section. The Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram in force as of the promulgation of this section is that dated April 4, 1956, File No. TU-3-26-1, and is on file in the Office. Chief of Engineers, Department of the Army, Washington, D.C., and in the office of the Public Utilities Commission of the City and County of San Francisco, California. Revisions of the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram may be developed from time to time as necessary by the Corps of Engineers and the City. Each such revision shall be effective upon the date specified in the approval thereof by the Chief of Engineers and by the Public Utilities Commission of the City and County of San Francisco, California, and from that date until replaced shall be the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram currently in force for the purpose of this section. Copies of the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram currently in force shall be kept on file in and may be obtained from the office of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, in charge of the locality, and the office of the Public Utilities Commission of the City and County of San Francisco, California.
(c) Storage space in Cherry Valley Reservoir shall be kept available for flood-control purposes in accordance with the Flood-Control Reservation Diagram currently in force for that reservoir except when storage of floodwater is necessary as prescribed in paragraph (e) of this section. The Flood-Control Storage Reservoir Diagram in force as of the promulgation of this section is that dated April 4, 1956, File No. TU-2-26-6, and is on file in the Office, Chief of Engineers, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, Washington, D.C., and in the office of the Public Utilities Commission of the City and County of San Francisco, California. Revisions of the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram may be developed from time to time as necessary by the Corps of Engineers and the City. Each such revision shall be effective upon the date specified in the approval thereof by the Chief of Engineers and by the Public Utilities Commission of the City and County of San Francisco, California, and from that date until replaced shall be the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram currently in force for the purpose of this section. Copies of the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram currently in force shall be kept on file in and may be obtained from the office of the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, in charge of the locality, and the office of the Public Utilities Commission of the City and County of San Francisco, California.
(d) Any water temporarily stored in the flood-control space indicated by the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram currently in force for Don Pedro Reservoir shall be released as rapidly as can be accomplished without causing flows in Tuolumne River below LaGrange Dam to exceed 7,000 c.f.s. during rain floods or to exceed 9,000 c.f.s. at all other times.
(e) Any water temporarily stored in the flood-control space indicated by the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagrams currently in force for Hetch Hetchy and Cherry Valley Reservoirs shall be released as rapidly as can be accomplished without exceeding the respective safe channel capacities, and without materially contributing to major encroachment into the flood-control space at Don Pedro Reservoir. Such releases shall be proportioned between Hetch Hetchy and Cherry Valley Reservoirs in such manner as to assure that the percentage of encroachment into the flood-control space at the two reservoirs will tend toward equality insofar as possible. Whenever the storage space in Don Pedro Reservoir is less than 90 percent of that indicated by the Flood-Control Storage Reservation Diagram currently in force for that reservoir, releases from Hetch Hetchy and Cherry Valley Reservoirs shall be restricted to those required in connection with the generation of hydroelectric power in the power system of the City and in connection with diversion into the water supply system of the City.
(f) In the event that the water level in Don Pedro Reservoir rises above elevation 605.55 at the dam (top of spillway gates), subsequent operation of the dam shall be such as to cause downstream flows to exceed as little as possible the criteria prescribed in paragraph (d) of this section, and in no event to cause the maximum subsequent release from the reservoir to exceed the estimated maximum subsequent inflow to the reservoir.
(g) In the event that the water level in Hetch Hetchy Reservoir rises above elevation 3806 at the dam (top of spillway gates), subsequent operation of the dam shall be such as to cause downstream flows to exceed as little as possible the criteria prescribed in paragraph (e) of this section, and in no event to cause the maximum subsequent release from the reservoir to exceed the estimated maximum subsequent inflow to the reservoir.
(h) In the event that the water level in Cherry Valley Reservoir rises above elevation 4700 at the dam (spillway crest), subsequent operation of the dam shall be such as to cause downstream flows to exceed as little as possible the criteria prescribed in paragraph (e) of this section, and in no event to cause the maximum subsequent release from the reservoir to exceed the estimated maximum subsequent inflow to the reservoir.
(i) Nothing in the regulations of this section shall be construed to require dangerously rapid changes in magnitudes of releases from any of the reservoirs.
(j) The Districts shall procure such current basic hydrologic data, make such current determinations of required flood-control storage reservation in Don Pedro Reservoir, and current calculations of permissible releases from Don Pedro Reservoir as are required to accomplish the flood-control objectives of the regulations of this section.
(k) The City shall procure such current basic hydrologic data, and make such current calculations of permissible releases from Hetch Hetchy and Cherry Valley Reservoirs as are required to accomplish the flood-control objectives of the regulations of this section.
(l) The City shall keep the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, in charge of the locality, and the Districts currently advised of reservoir releases, reservoir storages, basic operating criteria which affect the schedule of operations, and such other operating data as the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, may request for Hetch Hetchy, Eleanor, and Cherry Valley Reservoirs.
(m) The Districts shall keep the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, in charge of the locality, and the City currently advised of reservoir releases, reservoir storages, basic operating criteria which affect the schedule of operations, and such other operating data as the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, may request for Don Pedro Reservoir.
(n) The flood-control regulations of this section are subject to temporary modification by the District Engineer, Corps of Engineers, if found necessary in time of flood emergency. Request for and action on such modifications may be made by any available means of communication, and such action shall be confirmed in writing under date of same day to the operating agency for the reservoir affected.
PART 209 – ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE
§ 209.50 Mississippi River Commission: Public observation of Commission meetings.
(a) Purpose. (1) The purpose of this regulation is to afford to the public, to the fullest possible extent, information regarding the decisionmaking processes of the Mississippi River Commission and to open all meetings of the Mississippi River Commission to public observation except in instances where a portion or portions of a meeting may be closed to the public in accordance with this regulation in order to protect the rights of individuals and/or in order to permit the Mississippi River Commission to carry out its statutory and assigned functions and responsibilities. This regulation is issued in accordance with section (g) of the Government in the Sunshine Act and implements sections (b) through (f) of said Act (5 U.S.C. 552b (b) through (f)).
(2) Public observation of Mississippi River Commission meetings includes public participation in the deliberations of the Commission only to the extent specifically provide in public notices of such meetings.
(b) Definitions. The following definitions apply to the regulation in this section.
(1) Commission means The Mississippi River Commission.
(2) President means the duly appointed President and Executive Officer of the Commission.
(3) Commissioner means a duly appointed member of the Commission.
(4) Secretary means the Secretary of the Commission.
(5) Chief Legal Officer means the Division Counsel or the acting Division Counsel of the Lower Mississippi Valley Division, Corps of Engineers.
(6) Meeting means the deliberations of at least a majority of the Commissioners where such deliberations determine or result in the joint conduct or disposition of official Commission business, but does not include:
(i) Deliberations of the Commission in determining whether or not to close a portion or portions of a meeting in accordance with paragraphs (e)(4) and (e)(5) of this section.
(ii) Deliberations of the Commission in determining whether or not to withhold from disclosure information pertaining to a portion or portions of a meeting as provided in paragraphs (e)(4) and (e)(5) of this section.
(iii) Deliberations of the Commission pertaining to changes in the subject matter of a meeting or changes in the determination to open or close a portion or portions of a meeting to the public following the public announcement of such meeting in accordance with paragraph (d)(4) of this section.
(iv) Deliberations of the Commission in determining whether to waive the one-week public notice requirement in accordance with paragraph (d)(2) of this section.
(c) Time, place, and agenda of meetings. (1) The meetings of the Commission, except those held on Government boats during inspection trips of the Commission, shall be held at Vicksburg, Mississippi. The time of such meetings shall be fixed by the President of the Commission, who shall cause due notice of such meetings to be given members of the Commission and the public.
(2) The President shall, after consultation with the Commissioners, prepare a detailed agenda for planned Commission meetings at the earliest practicable time. Suggestions from the public of proposed agenda items are invited.
(d) Public notices and Federal Register publication. (1) At least one week before each Commission meeting the Secretary shall issue a public announcement which (i) States the time and place of the meeting,
(ii) Lists the agenda items or subjects to be discussed at the meeting,
(iii) States whether the meeting or portions of the meeting are to be closed or open to public observation,
(iv) States whether or not public participation in the meeting will be permitted, and
(v) States the name and business phone number of the official who will respond to requests for information about the meeting. Public announcements of Commission meetings shall include releases to the news media in the Lower Mississippi River Valley and mailing notices of such meetings to all persons and agencies known to have an interest in the Commission’s work and to others who request such announcements.
(2) The one-week period for public notice required by paragraph (d)(1) of this section shall not be applicable when a majority of the entire membership of the Commission determines by a recorded vote that Commission business requires that a meeting be called at an earlier date. The Secretary shall, however, issue the public notice required by paragraph (d)(1) of this section at the earliest practicable time.
(3) When due to unforeseen circumstances it is necessary to change the time or place of a meeting following the public announcement required by paragraph (d)(1) of this section, the Secretary will publicly announce such change at the earliest practicable time.
(4) The subject matter of a meeting, or the determination of the Commission to open or close a portion or portions of a meeting to the public, may be changed following the public announcement required by paragraph (d)(1) of this section only if: (i) A majority of the entire membership of the Commission determines by a recorded vote that Commission business so requires and that no earlier announcement of the change was possible, and (ii) the Secretary publicly announces such change and the vote of each member on such change at the earliest practicable time.
(5) Immediately following each public announcement required by this section, notice of the time, place, and subject matter of a meeting, whether a portion or portions of the meetings are open or closed to public observation, any change in one of the preceding, and the name and business telephone number of the official of the Commission who will respond to requests for information about the meeting, shall be submitted for publication in the
(e) Closing a portion or portions of a meeting. (1) All Commission meetings shall be open to the public except when the Commission determines that public disclosure of information to be discussed in a portion or portions of a meeting is likely to:
(i) Disclose matters that are (A) specifically authorized under criteria established by Executive order to be kept secret in the interests of national defense or foreign policy and (B) in fact properly classified pursuant to such Executive order;
(ii) Relate solely to the internal personnel rules and practices of the Commission;
(iii) Disclose matters specifically exempted from disclosure by statute [other than the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552), provided that such statute: (A) Requires that the matters be withheld from the public in such a manner as to leave no discretion on the issue, or (B) establishes particular criteria for withholding or refers to particular types of matters to be withheld;
(iv) Disclose trade secrets and commercial or financial information obtained from a person and privileged or confidential;
(v) Involve accusing any person of a crime, or formally censuring any person;
(vi) Disclose information of a personal nature when disclosure would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy;
(vii) Disclose investigatory records compiled for law-enforcement purposes, or information which, if written, would be contained in such records. But only to the extent that the production of such records or information would: (A) Interfere with enforcement proceedings, (B) deprive a person of a right to a fair trial or to an impartial adjudication, (C) constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy, or (D) disclose the identity of a confidential source, and, in the case of a record compiled by a criminal law-enforcement authority in the course of a criminal investigation or by an agency conducting a lawful national-security intelligence investigation, confidential information furnished only by the confidential source:
(viii) Disclose information the premature disclosure of which would be likely to significantly frustrate implementation of a proposed Commission action except: (A) When the Commission has already disclosed to the public the content or nature of its proposed action or (B) when the Commission is required by law to make such disclosure on its own initiative prior to taking final Commission action on such proposal;
(ix) Specifically concerns the Commission’s participation in a civil action or proceeding.
(2) In each instance where the Commission determines that a portion or portions of a meeting may be closed to the public, or determines that information may be withheld from the public for one or more of the exemptions listed in paragraph (e)(1) of this section, the Commission shall consider and determine whether or not the public interest requires that the portion or portions of the meeting be open to the public and whether or not the public interest requires that the information be released to the public.
(3) Whenever any person whose interest may be directly affected by a portion of a meeting requests that the Commission close such portion to the public for any of the reasons referred to in paragraph (e)(1) (v), (vi) or (vii) of this section, the Commission, upon the request of any one of its members, shall vote by recorded vote whether to close such meeting.
(4) Action to close a portion or portions of a meeting for one or more of the reasons listed in paragraphs (e)(1) (i) through (ix) of this section, or to withhold information from the public for one or more of the reasons listed in paragraphs (e)(1) (i) through (ix) of this section shall be taken only when a majority of the entire membership of the Commission votes to take such action.
(5) A separate recorded vote of the Commission shall be taken with respect to each meeting a portion or portions of which the Commission proposes to close to the public, and a separate vote of the members of the Commission shall be taken to determine whether to withhold information from the public. The vote of each Commissioner participating in such vote shall be recorded and no proxies shall be allowed.
(6) Within one day of any vote taken pursuant to paragraphs (e)(4) and (e)(5) of this section, the Commission shall make publicly available a written copy of such vote reflecting the vote of each member on the question. If a portion or portions of a meeting are to be closed to the public, the Commission shall within one day of the vote taken pursuant to paragraphs (e)(4) and (e)(5) of this section make publicly available a written explanation of its action in closing a portion or portions of the meeting together with a list of all persons expected to attend the meeting and their affiliations.
(7) For every portion or portions of a meeting closed pursuant to paragraphs (e)(1) (i) through (ix) of this section, the Chief Legal Officer of the Commission shall publicly certify that, in his or her opinion, the meeting may be closed to the public and shall state each relevant exemptive provision. A copy of such certification, together with a statement from the presiding officer of the meeting setting forth the time and place of the meeting, and the persons present, shall be retained in the Commission files.
(f) Records. (1) The Secretary shall maintain in the official files:
(i) A complete transcript or electronic recording (disclosing the identity of each speaker) adequate to record fully the proceedings of the Commission at a portion or portions of a meeting closed to the public for the reasons specified in paragraphs (e)(1) (i) through (ix) of this section.
(ii) The statement of the presiding officer of each Commission meeting, a portion or portions of which were closed to the public, as required by paragraph (e)(7) of this section.
(iii) The certification of the Chief Legal Officer, as required by paragraph (e)(7) of this section, for each Commission meeting, a portion or portions of which were closed to the public.
(2) The records required by paragraph (f)(1) of this section shall be retained for at least two years following any meeting or not less than one year following conclusion of Commission action with respect to any matter discussed at such meeting, whichever occurs later.
(g) Public access to records. (1) All records required to be maintained in accordance with the provisions of (f)(1) of this section shall promptly be made available to the public by the Secretary except for information which the Commission has determined may be withheld from the public for the reasons stated in paragraphs (e)(1) (i) through (ix) of this section.
(2) Public inspection of such records shall take place at the headquarters of the Mississippi River Commission, 1400 Walnut Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180.
(3) The Secretary shall provide (subject to withholding of information for the reasons stated in paragraphs (e)(1) (i) through (ix) of this section) upon request of any person, copies of the records required by the provisions of (f)(1) of this section, including transcriptions of electronic recordings at the actual cost of transcription or duplication.
§ 209.138a Authorization for exploratory drilling in the Gulf of Santa Catalina, Calif.
(a) Department of the Army authorization is required pursuant to section 4(f) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act of 1953 (67 Stat. 462; 43 U.S.C. 1333(f)) in coastal waters and the water covering the Outer Continental Shelf. The determination whether or not to issue a Department of the Army authorization for structures on the Outer Continental Shelf related to exploration of minerals is based upon the proposed activities’ effect on navigation and national security. All other matters concerning offshore drilling, including environmental considerations, are the responsibility of the Department of the Interior.
(b) The following rules have been developed jointly by the Los Angeles district engineer and the 11th Coast Guard District, in consultation with the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Geological Survey for drilling in the Gulf of Santa Catalina:
(1) All drilling with a single tract will be covered by a single application.
(2) Where practicable, applications shall be submitted at least 120 days in advance of drilling for tracts where drilling is expected to be accomplished within the traffic separation scheme, the precautionary zone or within 2 nautical miles of a traffic lane.
(3) Applications shall include the location of any known proposed drilling site and the estimated start and completion dates for each. Updated information on the plan shall be furnished as soon as available. One individual (and alternate) shall be designated by the applicant as responsible for maintaining close liaison with all involved agencies.
(4) Where it is not feasible to perform exploratory work from outside the traffic lanes or
(i) Exploratory vessels within a traffic lane will, to the degree practicable, be sited near traffic lane boundaries.
(ii) Exploratory vessels within one traffic lane, or in the precautionary zone, shall be separated by at least 8 nautical miles in the direction of the lane axis.
(iii) Exploratory vessels located within the traffic lanes, or the precautionary zone, shall not have their pendant buoys within 3,000 yards from the pendant buoys of any other vessel.
(iv) Exploratory rigs and vessels engaged in offshore development may have no cables, anchors, buoys, or other associated equipment within the traffic lanes,
§ 209.140 Operations of the Corps of Engineers under the Federal Power Act.
(a) General. This section outlines policies and procedures applicable to those operations in which the Corps of Engineers may be called upon to participate under the Federal Power Act. Such operations include: Investigations and reports on applications for permits and licenses for development of power affecting navigable waters; supervision of investigations, construction, and operation of projects under such permits and licenses; preparation of special reports as required by the Federal Power Commission; and review of plans of dams or other structures affecting navigation. The foregoing functions are performed by the Corps of Engineers only upon request of the Federal Power Commission.
(b) Authority of Division and District Engineers. Section 2 of the revised Federal Power Act provides that the Federal Power Commission may request the President to detail an officer or officers from the Corps of Engineers, or other branches of the United States Army, to serve the Commission as Engineer officer or officers, or in any other capacity, in field work outside the seat of government, their duties to be prescribed by the Commission. By authority of the Secretary of the Army, and in accordance with the instructions issued by the President in a letter to the Secretary of the Army dated May 18, 1931, Division Engineers will be detailed to serve the Commission as engineer officers in field work outside the seat of government, their duties to be prescribed by the Commission, and to be performed under the supervision of the Chief of Engineers. District Engineers will be designated to carry out the field inspections and investigations under supervision of the Division Engineer. When a Division Engineer is detailed by the Chief of Engineers to assist the Commission in either the investigation or supervision of a project he will be the accredited representative of the Commission. The actual field work will be done by the designated District Engineer who will make a report to the Division Engineer. All reports and such correspondence as would normally be forwarded to the Commission will be addressed to the Chief of Engineers.
(c) Procedure for investigations and report on applications for permits and licenses. (1) Upon request by the Federal Power Commission, the Chief of Engineers will assign the investigation of an application for permit or license under the Federal Power Act to a Division Engineer, who will submit a report on the investigation as provided herein. The date that the report is to be submitted will be specified. The Division Engineer, upon assignment of an investigation involving extensive studies, will when requested by the Chief of Engineers submit an estimate of the cost of the investigation, listing the probable expenditures for salaries separate from the estimated costs of non-personal services.
(2) If in the investigation of an application or a declaration of intention filed under the Federal Power Act the Division Engineer considers a public hearing desirable in the interests of navigation or flood control, the Chief of Engineers will be notified whereupon the matter will be brought to the attention of the Commission. No public hearing will be held unless specifically authorized by the Commission or by the Chief of Engineers. If a hearing is authorized it will be limited strictly to consideration of the purpose for which approval is granted.
(3) The report will describe and discuss material facts having a definite bearing on the interests of navigation and flood control and the general effect the project would have on a comprehensive plan of developing the water resources of the basin. Specific reference will be made to pertinent published documents containing the results of studies and/or resolutions directing studies to be made. In the case of an application for permit or license for an unconstructed project the report will include a recommendation as to whether development should be undertaken by the United States rather than by a licensee. A recommendation for Federal development will be supported by a showing as to how this would serve the Corps of Engineers programs and policies. In the case of an application for permit or license for a constructed project the report should contain appropriate comments concerning possible redevelopment to improve the usefulness of the project in relation to the objectives of the Corps program in the basin.
(4) The report on an application for license will contain recommendations of the Division Engineer concerning the inclusion in the license of any terms and conditions that are considered to be necessary or desirable in the public interest from the standpoint of Corps of Engineers responsibilities.
(5) The report on an application for permit will contain such recommendations as required to insure coordination of the applicant’s studies with the Division or District Engineer in cases where interests of the Corps of Engineers are involved. In all cases, the report will contain, in lieu of specific recommendations, a discussion of interests which should be protected by articles in a license issued subsequent to the permit period.
(6) If the project is on a Federal reservation or contemplates the use of a dam, either of which is under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Army, the report should state, giving reasons:
(i) Whether the project will interfere or be inconsistent with the purpose for which such reservation was created or acquired and what conditions, if any, should be imposed for the adequate protection and utilization of the reservation.
(ii) Whether the dam may be advantageously used by the United States for public purposes in addition to authorized purposes and whether it should be reserved for such use.
(iii) Whether the development should be undertaken by the United States.
(7) The reports will not be released or made public except by specific authority of the Chief of Engineers, nor will copies of a report, its findings, or recommendations be furnished to the applicant, to interested parties, or to the Commission until released by the Chief of Engineers.
(d) Procedure for supervision of operations under permits and licenses. (1) When supervision of the operations of an applicant under a permit or a license is requested by the Federal Power Commission, the Chief of Engineers will assign responsibility for supervision to the Division Engineer. The operations to be supervised, such as investigations being conducted by a permittee, construction of a project under a license or operation of completed projects, will be as specified by the Commission.
(2) Projects will be classified as major, minor, minor part or transmission line projects as indicated in the Federal Power Act and as specified in the instructions from the Commission.
(3) Inspection during the construction of a major project will be made monthly, or as often as may be necessary for the Division Engineer to assure himself that the terms of the license are being complied with and the work is of acceptable quality and in accordance with the approved plans. The frequency of inspections of minor, minor part, and transmission line projects is left to the discretion of the Division Engineer.
(4) After a project has been completed and placed in operation and is under the supervision of the Division Engineer, annual inspection will be made of major and minor projects but inspection of transmission line projects will not be made unless specifically requested by the Commission.
(5) Reports on supervision and inspections of operations under Federal Power Commission permits and licenses will be submitted in accordance with instructions in paragraph (e) of this section.
(e) Reports on supervision and inspection of operations under Federal Power Commission permits licenses. Periodic reports, as appropriate to assigned responsibilities and as described in paragraphs (e) (1) through (3), inclusive, of this section will be submitted for each Federal Power Commission permit or license for which a Division Engineer has been assigned responsibility for supervision of operations under provisions of the Federal Power Act. All of the described reports will be submitted in triplicate to the Chief of Engineers for transmittal to the Federal Power Commission. Unless otherwise stated transmittal letters will not be required and the reports will be mailed so as to reach the Chief of Engineers not later than the 15th of the month following the end of the report period.
(1) Reports on supervision of construction under a FPC License. When a Division Engineer is assigned responsibility for supervision and inspection of construction of a licensed project, the requirements for submission of reports will be specified.
(2) Annual Report on operation of project under supervision of the Division Engineer. Reports on the operation and maintenance of each major and minor licensed project for which supervision of operations has been assigned to a Division Engineer will be submitted annually after the initial installation covered by the license has been completed. Such reports will be made on Federal Power Commission Form 10, “Operation Report” and, pursuant to paragraph 39u of AR 335-15, do not require a reports control symbol. A special report will be made in case of severe flood or interruption in operation due to failure of material or accident. Reports on operation and maintenance of transmission line projects are not required unless requested by the Commission.
(3) Annual Report on operation of projects with licenses containing conditions prescribed in the interest of navigation. When the Federal Power Commission notifies the Chief of Engineers that it will assume the supervision of operation of a licensed project, the Division Engineer will not be required to make detailed inspections and reports. However, the Division Engineer will continue to be responsible for the project insofar as it affects the interest of navigation. The inspection of projects in this class is left to the discretion of the Division Engineer but annual reports will be submitted in triplicate, through the Chief of Engineers, on Federal Power Commission Form 10, “Operation Report”, omitting the items under “Supervision expense for period”, but including the following information only under “Memorandum Report”.
(i) Whether the operation of the project has been satisfactory insofar as the interests of navigation are concerned.
(ii) Whether any infraction by the licensee of the conditions in the interest of navigation has come to the attention of the Division Engineer.
(f) Delegation of authority for approval of structural plans for non-Federal hydroelectric projects affecting navigation. The authority vested in the Secretary of the Army by section 4(e) of the Federal Power Act is hereby delegated to the Chief of the Engineers for promulgation with regard to approval of plans of structures filed with the Federal Power Commission in connection with licensing of non-Federal hydroelectric projects.
For regulations of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, see 18 CFR chapter I.
§ 209.141 Coordination of hydroelectric power operations with power marketing agencies.
(a) Purpose. This regulation establishes policies and procedures for coordinating the operation of the Corps of Engineers’ hydroelectric generating facilities with the power marketing agencies.
(b) Applicability. This regulation applies to all civil works field operating agencies (FOA) having generating facilities producing marketable electric power.
(c) References. (1) Section 5, Pub. L. 534, 78th Congress, Flood Control Act of 1944, December 22, 1944 (58 Stat. 889).
(2) Section 302, Pub. L. 95-91, 95th Congress, Department of Energy Organization Act, August 4, 1977 (91 Stat. 565).
(d) Background. Section 5 of the Act of December 22, 1944 (Pub. L. 534, 78th Congress), provides that electric power and energy generated at reservoir projects under the control of the Department of the Army and in the opinion of the Secretary of Army not required in the operation of such projects shall be delivered to the Secretary of Interior for transmittal and disposal in a manner to encourage the most widespread use thereof at the lowest possible rates to consumers consistent with sound business principles. Section 302 of the Department of Energy Organization Act (Pub. L. 95-91) transfers all functions of the Secretary of Interior under section 5 of the 1944 Act to the Secretary of Energy together with all other functions of the Secretary of Interior, and officers and components of the Department of the Interior, with respect to the Southeastern Power Administration; the Southwestern Power Administration; the Alaska Power Administration; the Bonneville Power Administration; and the power marketing functions of the Bureau of Reclamation.
(e) Policies. (1) The Corps is responsible for operating the hydroelectric power projects and providing information affecting cost and availability of power to the power marketing agencies. Marketing the generated power declared excess to the needs of the projects and recovering Federal investment are the responsibilities of the power marketing agencies.
(2) All FOA Commanders will develop, in coordination with their respective power marketing agency, a system for exchanging operating information. The system will include general operating information and information on conditions that could substantially affect costs or power availability.
(f) Delegation. Responsibility for coordinating the exchange of information may be delegated to the District Engineer at the discretion of the Division Engineer.
(g) Procedures – (1) Specific requirements – (i) Continuing. Prompt written notification will be provided to the appropriate power marketing agency each time a change in power operations or conditions which could substantially affect costs or power availability is anticipated.
(ii) Annual. Annually, when no changes in power operations or costs are expected for the succeeding 12-month period, the marketing agency will be notified of that fact in writing.
(2) FOA responsibility. The FOA directly responsible for communicating with the marketing agency will develop appropriate reporting procedures in coordination with that agency.
§ 209.155 Expenditure of Federal funds for work shoreward of harbor lines.
(a) Section 5 of the River and Harbor Act of July 13, 1892 (27 Stat. 111; 33 U.S.C. 628), prohibits the expenditure of money appropriated for the improvement of rivers and harbors for dredging inside of harbor lines duly established.
(b) It is not the policy of the Department to expend Federal funds for the removal of wrecks or other obstructions shoreward of established harbor lines.
§ 209.160 The California Debris Commission.
Section 1 of the Act of Congress of March 1, 1893 (27 Stat. 507; 33 U.S.C. 661), created the California Debris Commission, consisting of three officers of the Corps of Engineers, to regulate under the supervision of the Chief of Engineers and direction of the Secretary of the Army, hydraulic mining in the territory drained by the Sacramento and San Joaquin River systems, California. Under section 9 of the act (27 Stat. 508; 33 U.S.C. 669), the individual proprietor or proprietors, or in case of a corporation, its manager or agent appointed for that purpose, owning mining ground in this territory which it is desired to work by the hydraulic process, must file with the Commission a verified petition, setting forth such facts as will comply with law and the rules prescribed by the Commission. The law contains detailed instructions with regard to facts required to be shown by the petitioner and the procedure to be followed by the Commission in issuing an order directing the methods and specifying the manner in which operations shall proceed. Full information on law and procedure can be obtained from the Secretary, California Debris Commission, 650 Capitol Mall, Sacramento, California 95814.
(a) [Reserved]
(b) Injuries to Government works. Section 14 of the River and Harbor Act of March 3, 1899 (30 Stat. 1152; 33 U.S.C. 408), makes it unlawful for any person or persons to take possession of or make use of for any purpose, or build upon, alter, deface, destroy, move, injure, obstruct by fastening vessels thereto or otherwise, or in any manner whatever impair the usefulness of any sea wall, bulkhead, jetty, dike, levee, wharf, pier, or other work built by the United States, or any piece of plant, floating or otherwise, used in the construction of such work under the control of the United States, in whole or in part, for the preservation and improvement of any of its navigable waters or to prevent floods, or as boundary marks, tide gauges, surveying stations, buoys, or other established marks, nor remove for ballast or other purposes any stone or other material composing such works. (The Secretary of the Army may, on the recommendation of the Chief of Engineers, grant permission for the temporary occupation or use of any of the aforementioned public works when in his judgment such occupation or use will not be injurious to the public interest).
(c) Injurious deposits. (1) Section 13 of the River and Harbor Act of March 3, 1899 (30 Stat. 1152; 33 U.S.C. 407), makes it unlawful to throw, discharge, or deposit, or cause, suffer, or procure to be thrown, discharged, or deposited either from or out of any ship, barge, or other floating craft, or from the shore, wharf, manufacturing establishment, or mill, any refuse matter of any kind or description whatever other than that flowing from streets and sewers and passing therefrom in a liquid state, into any navigable water of the United States, or into any tributary of any navigable water from which the same shall float or be washed into such navigable water, or to deposit or cause, suffer, or procure to be deposited material of any kind in any place on the bank of any navigable water or on the bank of any tributary of any navigable water, where the same shall be liable to be washed into such navigable water, either by ordinary or high tides, or by storms or floods, or otherwise, whereby navigation shall or may be impeded or obstructed. Section 13 does not apply to the operations in connection with the improvement of navigable waters or construction of public works considered necessary and proper by the United States officers supervising such improvement or public work.
(2) An Act of Congress approved June 29, 1888 (25 Stat. 209; 33 U.S.C. 441-451), as amended on August 28, 1958 (72 Stat. 970-971; 33 U.S.C. 441-451b) forbids the placing, discharging, or depositing of refuse, dirt, ashes, cinders, mud, sand, dredgings, sludge, acid, or any other matter of any kind, other than that flowing from streets, sewers, and passing therefrom in a liquid state, in the tidal waters of the harbors of New York, Hampton Roads, and Baltimore or its adjacent or tributary waters, within the limits which shall be prescribed by the Supervisor of the Harbor. The provisions of this act are enforced by the Supervisor under the direction of the Secretary of the Army.
(d) Penalties for violations. (1) Section 12 of the River and Harbor Act of March 3, 1899 (30 Stat. 1151; 33 U.S.C. 406), as amended, provides that every person and every corporation that shall violate any of the provisions of sections 9 and 10 shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and on conviction thereof shall be punished by fine, imprisonment, or both, in the discretion of the court. The removal of any structures or parts of structures erected in violation of the provisions of the said sections may be enforced by the injunction of any district court exercising jurisdiction in any district in which such structures may exist, and proper proceedings to this end may be instituted under the direction of the Attorney General.
(2) Section 16 of the River and Harbor Act of March 3, 1899 (30 Stat. 1153; 33 U.S.C. 412), provides that every person and every corporation that shall violate, or that shall knowingly aid, abet, authorize or instigate a violation of the provisions of sections 13, 14 and 15, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. On conviction thereof violators shall be punished by a fine, imprisonment, or both, in the discretion of the court. Any master, pilot, and engineer, or person or persons acting in such capacity, respectively, on board of any boat or vessel who shall knowingly engage in towing any scow, boat, or vessel loaded with any material specified in section 13 to any point or place of deposit or discharge in any harbor or navigable water, elsewhere than within the limits defined and permitted by the Secretary of the Army, or who shall willfully injure or destroy any work of the United States contemplated in section 14, or who shall willfully obstruct the channel of any waterway in the manner contemplated in section 15, shall be deemed guilty of a violation of the Act. Upon conviction he shall be punished as provided in this section, and shall also have his license revoked or suspended for a term to be fixed by the judge before whom tried and convicted. Any boat, vessel, scow, raft, or other craft used or employed in violating any of the provisions of sections 13, 14, and 15 shall be liable for the pecuniary penalties specified in this section, and in addition for the amount of the damages done by said boat, vessel, scow, raft, or other craft. The latter sum shall be placed to the credit of the appropriation for the improvement of the harbor or waterway in which the damage occurred, and said boat, vessel, scow, raft, or other craft may be proceeded against summarily by way of libel in any district court of the United States having jurisdiction thereof.
(e) Enforcement. (1) Section 17 of the River and Harbor Act of March 3, 1899 (30 Stat. 1153; 33 U.S.C. 413) provides that the Department of Justice shall conduct the legal proceedings necessary to enforce the provisions of sections 9 to 16, inclusive, of the Act. It shall be the duty of district attorneys of the United States to prosecute vigorously all offenders against the same whenever requested to do so by the Secretary of the Army or by any of his designated representatives.
(2) Under the provisions of section 17, District Engineers and the United States collectors of customs and other revenue officers, have power and authority to swear out process and to arrest and take into custody, with or without process, any person or persons who may commit any of the acts or offenses prohibited by sections 9 to 16, inclusive, or who may violate any of the provisions of the same. No person shall be arrested without process for any offense not committed in the presence of some one of the aforesaid officials. Whenever any arrest is made under the provisions of the Act, the person so arrested shall be brought forthwith before a commissioner, judge, or court of the United States for examination of the offenses alleged against him. Such commissioner, judge, or court shall proceed as authorized by law in case of crimes against the United States.
(3) It is the duty of each District Engineer to take notice of any violations of the laws for the protection of the navigable waters and the works of improvement therein that may occur in his district and to take the necessary steps to secure enforcement of the law. Whenever any violation of any of these provisions of law comes to his attention he will investigate carefully the circumstances of the case and will determine the amount of the damage for which the parties committing the violation are responsible under section 16 of the River and Harbor Act of March 3, 1899. He will advise the responsible parties to remove the illegal structure or deposit or to repair the damage at their own expense within a time specified by him. When there is reasonable doubt as to legal liability or the facts do not appear to warrant legal action, the District Engineer will report the case to the Chief of Engineers for decision before communicating with the responsible parties. When the damage must be repaired within a reasonable time, if the responsible parties so request in writing and if, when considered advisable by the District Engineer to protect the interests of the United States, they furnish a satisfactory bond or other guaranty, he may cause the repairs to be made by employees of the United States and then call upon the responsible parties to pay over to him the cost of the damages when finally ascertained. Where the damage is not to be repaired within a reasonable time, the District Engineer will make final settlement with the responsible parties as promptly as possible by collecting the estimated amount of the damages. All sums so received will be deposited promptly to the credit of the Treasurer of the United States for recredit to the appropriation affected and will be accounted for in the District Engineer’s money accounts by proper vouchers. With reference to the method of ascertaining the amount of the damages under section 16 of the Act, a distinction should be made between cases involving property that should be repaired and those involving property that should be abandoned. In the former cases the amount of the damages should be the total cost of repairs, less any salvage value and any enhanced value. In the latter cases, the amount of the damages should be the fair value of the property, less any salvage value. Whether or not there has been any enhanced value (i.e., whether the fair value of the structure immediately after the repairs is greater than its fair value immediately before the damage occurred) is a matter to be determined from an actual survey of the structure and knowledge of its age and condition. Where maintenance has equalled depreciation there probably would be no enhanced value.
(4) If the parties deny their responsibility, or if they refuse or neglect to remove any unlawful structure or deposit or to repair the damages within the time specified by the District Engineer, the matter will be reported to the Chief of Engineers with such evidence as the District Engineer may be able to obtain and his recommended action under section 17 of the Act of March 3, 1899. In a situation requiring immediate action, the District Engineer may report the case directly to the U.S. attorney for the district. The Chief of Engineers will be advised of such action by a written report. Although the Corps of Engineers has certain police powers under this Act it has been the long standing policy to secure compliance with its provisions short of legal proceedings. Accordingly every effort will be made to accomplish corrective measures prior to initiation of action leading to such proceedings. As a general rule, while minor and unintentional or accidental violations of the provisions of the Act need not be reported to the Chief of Engineers, all willful or intentional violations and all cases in which the parties responsible refuse or neglect to remove the unlawful structure or deposit or to make good the damages suffered should be reported promptly to the Chief of Engineers in accordance with the above. It is the policy not to recommend prosecution when the violation of law is trivial, apparently unpremeditated, and results in no material public injury. Each report recommending prosecution should be accompanied by a full statement of the case and copies of correspondence relating thereto.
(5) The procedure in cases involving injurious deposits is similar to that described for other violations of law except that as the damage caused thereby cannot be repaired readily there will be no reason for serving any notice on the parties responsible for the violations further than to bring to their attention the consequences thereof.
(6) Section 6 of the river and Harbor Act approved March 3, 1905 (33 Stat. 1148; 33 U.S.C. 417) provides that expenses incurred by the Corps of Engineers in all investigations, inspections, hearings, reports, service of notice, or other action incidental to examinations into alleged violations of laws for protection and preservation of navigable waters shall be payable from any funds which may be available for the improvement, maintenance, operation, or care of the waterways or harbors affected. If such funds are not available in sums judged by the Chief of Engineers to be adequate, they shall be payable from any funds available for examinations, surveys, and contingencies of rivers and harbors.
(a) When an application is received for the temporary closure of a waterway for the construction of a structure or the performance of other work in the waterway, the District Engineer will assure himself of the necessity for the closure and arrange after informal communication with any important navigation interests concerned the time and duration of the closure which will enable the operations to be completed with the least interference with navigation. If there is no question as to the necessity and propriety of the closure, the District Engineer is authorized to inform the applicant as follows: “The Department of the Army will interpose no objection to the closure for a stated period beginning at a specified date: Provided, That prior thereto the applicant will notify navigation interests by an advertisement in the press or otherwise as the District Engineer may approve and on the understanding that the waiver of objection does not affect the liability of the applicant for any damages that may arise by reason of the closure.” The letter to the applicant will be signed “By Authority of the Secretary of the Army” and distribution made as prescribed for permits.
(b) District Engineers will give careful consideration to the effect of any closure on through navigation. Should coordination with other districts be necessary the case will be forwarded to the Division Engineer for such coordination.
(c) Cases not falling within the authority above conferred will be forwarded to the Chief of Engineers with the recommendations of the Division and District Engineers.
§ 209.190 [Reserved]
(a) Publication of regulations. (1) Regulations prescribed by or under the direction of the Secretary of the Army to govern navigation and navigable waters, are contained in the Code of Federal Regulations, title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters, Chapter II.
(2) District engineers (or division engineers if considered preferable by the latter to avoid duplication in cases where the regulations involved apply to more than one district) will distribute copies of departmental regulations to all known interested parties as soon as their publication has been noted in the
(b) Navigation regulations. (1) Section 7 of the River and Harbor Act approved August 8, 1917 (40 Stat. 266; 33 U.S.C. 1) authorizes the Secretary of the Army to prescribe such regulations for the use, administration, and navigation of the navigable waters of the United States as public necessity may require for the protection of life and property, or for operations of the United States in channel improvement, covering all matters not specifically delegated by law to some other executive department. The statute provides for the posting of regulations and punishment for violations.
(2) Section 6 of the River and Harbor Act approved June 13, 1902 (32 Stat. 374; 33 U.S.C. 499) provides that regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Army may be enforced as provided in section 17 of the River and Harbor Act approved March 3, 1899 (30 Stat. 1153; 33 U.S.C. 413).
(3) District Engineers will take action with respect to regulations prescribed for waterways under their jurisdiction:
(i) To insure that the regulations are brought to the attention of the public.
(ii) To insure that the regulations are properly and fairly administered.
(iii) To recommend any revisions necessary to permit full use of the waterway by the public.
(c) Danger zones. (1) The Secretary of the Army has authority to prescribe regulations for the use and navigation of any area of the navigable waters of the United States or waters under the jurisdiction of the United States likely to be endangered by Department of Defense operations. This authority is pursuant to the provisions of Chapter XIX of the Army Act of July 9, 1918, or of section 7 of the River and Harbor Act of August 8, 1917.
(2) On receipt of a request from any element of the Department of Defense or other agency for approval by the Secretary of the Army of regulations establishing danger zones under authority of either Act, the District Engineer will, prior to issuing any public notice, make certain that the applicant: (i) Has coordinated its proposed operations with any operations being conducted or contemplated by other agencies in the same area with a view to avoiding interagency conflicts, (ii) has obtained clearance from the proper Regional Subcommittee on Airspace, Rules of the Air and Air Traffic Control (Air Coordinating Committee), where the use of airspace is involved, and (iii) has conducted preliminary discussions with local interests when considered advisable. In the case of proposed danger zones off the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts, the coordination referred to in (c)(2)(i) of this section will include the Commander, Service Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, or the Commander, Western Sea Frontier.
(3) The authority to prescribe danger zone regulations must be exercised so as not to interfere with or restrict unreasonably the food fishing industry. Whenever the establishment of a proposed danger zone or restricted area may affect fishing operations the District Engineer will consult with the regional director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior. Two copies of all notices of applications for the establishment of danger zones and restricted areas will be forwarded to the Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force. In addition, notices of all applications relating to the establishment of aerial gunnery and bombing areas will be sent to local Army, Navy, and Federal Aviation Agency representatives.
(4) If the use of water areas is desired only for such temporary, occasional, or intermittent periods that operations can be conducted safely without imposing restrictions on navigation, applicants may be informed that formal regulations by the Secretary of the Army are not required. However, proper notices for mariners requesting that vessels avoid the areas will be issued by the District Engineer to all interested persons. Copies will be sent to the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard, Washington, D.C. 20226 and the Commander, U.S. Naval Oceanographic Office, Washington, D.C. 20390.
(d) Dumping grounds. (1) Section 4 of the River and Harbor Act of March 3, 1905 (33 Stat. 1147; 33 U.S.C. 419), authorizes the Secretary of the Army to prescribe regulations to govern the transportation and dumping into any navigable water, or waters adjacent thereto, of dredgings and other refuse materials whenever in his judgment such regulations are required in the interest of navigation.
(2) Section 13 of the river and Harbor Act of March 3, 1899 (30 Stat. 1152; 33 U.S.C. 407) authorizes the Secretary of the Army to permit the deposit of refuse matter in navigable waters, whenever in the judgment of the Chief of Engineers anchorage and navigation will not be injured thereby, within limits to be defined and under conditions to be prescribed by him. Although the Department has exercised this authority from time to time, it is considered preferable to act under Section 4 of the River and Harbor Act of March 3, 1905 (33 Stat. 1147; 33 U.S.C. 419). As a means of assisting the Chief of Engineers in determining the effect on anchorage of vessels, the views of the U.S. Coast Guard will be solicited by coordination with the Commander of the local Coast Guard District.
(3) Under the authority contained in an Act of Congress to prevent obstructive and injurious deposits within the harbor and adjacent waters of New York City of June 29, 1888 (25 Stat. 209; 33 U.S.C. 441), the Supervisor of New York Harbor has established dumping areas in those waters and has prescribed regulations for their use. The provisions of the act are enforced by the Supervisor under the direction of the Secretary of the Army.
(4) In considering requests for the establishment of dumping grounds, District and Division Engineers will give careful consideration to the requirements of navigation and will take action to prevent unreasonable injury to fish and wildlife.
(e) Public notice and consultation with interested parties. (1) When applications are received for the promulgation of regulations as outlined in paragraphs (b) through (f), inclusive, of this section, District Engineers will issue public notices to all parties deemed likely to be interested and specifically to the agencies referred to in these paragraphs. The notice should fix a limiting date within which comments will be received, normally a period not less than 30 days after the actual mailing of the notice. If time is an essential element when adequately explained by the applicant, the District Engineer is authorized to give interested parties a minimum of 10 days after receipt of the notice in which to present protests. A copy of every notice issued will be sent to the Chief of Engineers, Attention: ENGCW-ON.
(2) Copies of the notices sent to interested parties, together with a list of parties to whom sent, will accompany reports on all applications for promulgation of regulations submitted to the Chief of Engineers for necessary action.
(3) In all instances when response to a public notice has been received from a Member of Congress, the District Engineer will inform the Member of Congress of the final action taken on the application.
(f) Public hearings. (1) It is the policy of the Chief of Engineers to conduct his civil works activities in an atmosphere of public understanding, trust, and mutual cooperation and in a manner responsive to public needs and desires. To this end, public hearings are helpful and will be held whenever there appears to be sufficient public interest to justify such action. In case of doubt, a public hearing should be held.
(2) Among the instances warranting public hearings are general public opposition to the promulgation of regulations governing the use and navigation of navigable waters. District Engineers will notify the Division Engineer of the need for a hearing, state the proposed arrangements therefor and obtain his concurrence therein. Public hearings will be held in any case when Congressional interests or responsible local authorities make an official and valid request therefor and such action will fulfill the above-stated policy and objectives.
§ 209.220 Flood control regulations.
(a) Local protection works. On projects authorized subject to specified conditions of local cooperation, no construction is undertaken by the Department of the Army until satisfactory assurances of the required local cooperation have been accepted by the Secretary of the Army and until any lands, easements, and rights-of-way required to be furnished by local interests have been made available for at least a complete unit of the project. The District Engineers notify local interests concerned of the requirements of local cooperation and request assurances by registered mail prior to the preparation of final plans and specifications. Regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Army for the maintenance and operation of local flood protection works are contained in § 208.10 of this chapter. When assurances satisfactory to the District Engineer are received, they are forwarded through the Division Engineer to the Chief of Engineers for consideration of the Secretary of the Army. The District Engineers advise local interests of the action taken by the Department. Completed projects or completed useful units thereof are normally turned over to local interests for maintenance and operation as soon as the construction and testing of equipment is completed and the project is in proper condition for the assumption of maintenance and operation by local interests. The transfer is accomplished by formal notice from the District Engineer to the local interests that the completed facilities are being turned over to them for maintenance and operation as of a specific date. During construction, District Engineers keep the local interests concerned advised as to the probable date of transfer.
(b) Use of storage allocated for flood control or navigation at reservoirs constructed wholly or in part with Federal funds. Regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Army in accordance with section 7 of the Flood Control Act of December 22, 1944 (58 Stat. 890; 33 U.S.C. 709) are for the purpose of coordinating the operation of the flood control features of reservoirs constructed wholly or in part with Federal funds and other flood control improvements to obtain the maximum protection from floods which can reasonably be obtained with the proper operation of all flood control improvements. Proposed regulations are determined by the District Engineer in cooperation with the persons responsible for the maintenance and operation of the reservoir involved after a detailed study of the flood problems and the characteristics of the reservoir project. The proposed regulations are forwarded by the District Engineer through the Division Engineer to the Chief of Engineers for consideration of the Secretary of the Army. When approved by the Secretary of the Army, these regulations are published in part 208 of this chapter.
§ 209.230 Use of reservoir areas for recreation.
The Department of the Army in accordance with Section 4 of the Flood Control Act of December 22, 1944, as amended by section 4 of the Flood Control Act of July 24, 1946 (60 Stat. 641) prepares and administers plans to obtain the maximum sustained public benefit from the use of reservoir areas under its control for recreation and other related purposes, when such use is consistent with the operation and maintenance of the reservoir project for the specific purposes of the reservoir project as authorized by law and when such use is determined not to be contrary to the public interest. The plans are prepared and administered by the District Engineers, subject to review and approval of the Division Engineers and the Chief of Engineers, in close cooperation with other Federal agencies and local interests. The views and desires of these agencies and local interests are obtained normally by conferences with the District Engineers. In many cases, public hearings are held by the District Engineers at appropriate times in the vicinity of the reservoir area at which time anyone can express his views relative to these plans for consideration of the Department of the Army. Rules and regulations are prescribed by the Secretary of the Army to govern the public use of the reservoir areas in accordance with the law as a part of the master plan for recreational and related uses of the reservoir area. These rules and regulations are published in 36 CFR parts 311 to 326. Licenses and leases are granted under the law containing conditions and provisions to govern the use of specific portions of the reservoir area. Full information concerning such matters may be obtained from the District Engineer in charge of the reservoir.
§ 209.300 Flood control regulations.
(a) Regulations for the operation and maintenance of local flood protection works approved by the Secretary of the Army under the authority contained in Section 3 of the Flood Control Act of June 22, 1936, as amended and supplemented, are codified as § 208.10 of this chapter. These regulations cover conditions normally and regularly required. Whenever the regulations are not sufficiently broad to cover the specific maintenance and operation requirements of a particular project, District Engineers will submit through the Division Engineers recommended additional regulations needed for that particular project. Such supplemental regulations will require approval of the Secretary of the Army and will be made applicable only to the individual project concerned. Local interests will be advised of the approved regulations for operation and maintenance of local flood protection works at the time assurances of local cooperation are requested. District Engineers will keep informed as to the extent of compliance with approved regulations for operation and maintenance through regular, periodic inspection of the projects concerned and through careful analysis of the semiannual reports which the operating and maintaining agencies are required to submit in accordance with the regulations. The District Engineer’s views as to any measures required to conform to the approved regulations will be furnished to the agencies responsible. In any case where the District Engineer has been unable to arrange satisfactory compliance or where there is question or disagreement as to the measures required for compliance, a report of the circumstances, together with the recommendations of the District and Division Engineers, will be submitted to the Chief of Engineers for consideration.
(b) Regulations for the use of storage allocated for flood control or navigation at reservoirs constructed wholly or in part with Federal funds provided on the basis of such purposes, are contained in § 208.16 et seq. of this chapter.
§ 209.310 Representation of submarine cables and pipelines on nautical charts.
(a) The policy of the Corps of Engineers with respect to showing the locations of submarine cables and pipelines on nautical charts published by the Corps of Engineers is as follows:
(1) Within protected waters such as harbors, rivers, bays, estuaries or other inland waterways the location of submarine cables and pipelines is to be indicated by shaded areas marked “Pipeline area” or “Cable area”. The extent of the limits of the area will be governed by local conditions but shall include the immediate area which overlies the cable or pipeline.
(2) Ordinarily, the shaded area on a chart which depicts a cable area or pipeline area should not exceed 500 feet on each side of the location of the cable or pipeline except on small scale charts where an area of that width would not be of sufficient prominence.
(3) The shaded area will be designated “cable area” or “pipeline area” as appropriate, but no other information as to the character or ownership of the installation will appear on the chart.
(b) District engineers will furnish copies of all permits issued for submarine cable and pipelines to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Ocean Service, ATTN: N/CG222, Rockville, MD 20852, with his/her recommendation of whether or not the installation should be shown on NOAA nautical charts. National Ocean Service must be notified of the commencement and completion dates for all permitted activities under this section. (Note: Decisions to publish these cables and pipelines on NOAA nautical charts lie solely within NOAA’s discretion.)
While the regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the army for various navigation improvements usually strictly prohibit trespass on Government property, those regulations will not be construed as prohibiting access to navigation works of general public interest subject to the following criteria:
(a) The public will not be permitted in areas where their presence would subject themselves or Government operating personnel to serious accident hazards.
(b) The public will not be permitted in areas where their presence would interfere with any phases of navigation operations.
(c) The public will be given access to all areas other than those specified under paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, subject only to the normal legal requirements with respect to property and personal rights.
§ 209.320 Policy on release of commercial statistics.
The collection of commercial statistics pertaining to rivers, harbors, and waterways, and annual reports thereof to Congress, are required by the River and Harbor Act of June 23, 1866 (14 Stat. 70), the act of February 21, 1891 (26 Stat. 766), the River and Harbor Act of June 13, 1902 (32 Stat. 376), the River and Harbor Act of July 25, 1912 (37 Stat. 201), the River and Harbor Act of September 22, 1922 (42 Stat. 1043), and Pub. L. No. 16, February 10, 1932 (47 Stat. 42). It is the policy of the Department to hold in strict confidence any data or information which has been furnished by shippers and others upon the understanding that it will not be disclosed and will only be used in the compilation of port or waterway statistics. In case Federal or State agencies or local interests request other than general information made permissible hereunder, their attention will be called to the policy indicated in this section.
(a) Purpose. This regulation prescribes the policy, practice and procedure to be used by all Corps of Engineers installations and activities in connection with aids to navigation, chart data, and publication of information on Civil Works activities.
(b) This regulation will be applied by all elements of the Corps of Engineers with Civil Works responsibilities.
(c) Reference. Public Law 85-480, Publication Authority (72 Stat. 279).
(d) Cooperation with Coast Guard. (1) District Engineers will consult with the Coast Guard District Commander during design of channel and harbor improvement projects to discuss the aids to navigation requirements and all other facets of the projects that involve Coast Guard responsibility. Project material furnished direct to Coast Guard Commanders will include:
(i) Information as to the authorization by Congress of a project involving changes affecting aids, such as channel limits, breakwaters, including a copy of the project document;
(ii) The proposed operations on such projects during the next fiscal year, to be furnished annually on the release of the budget estimates;
(iii) Plans showing the final location of the channel limits or structures to be furnished at the time work is undertaken.
(2) Changes in channel limits affecting navigation aids, made under general or specific provisions of the law, should be made the subject of a conference with the Coast Guard District Commander. He will be promptly informed as to the approval of such changes and the probable date of completion of the work.
(3) District Engineers will furnish direct to the various Coast Guard District Commanders, for their immediate information, any facts which may come to their attention in connection with their duties which will be of benefit to the Coast Guard in maintaining its system of aids to navigation. This should include statements as to the displacement of or defects in any such aids to navigation.
(4) If work involving harbor or channel improvements directly affects any existing aids to navigation or any structures of the Coast Guard, Districts Engineers will, when practicable, give notice to the Coast Guard District Commander sufficiently in advance to permit taking such steps as may be deemed necessary by the Coast Guard. If the Coast Guard District Commander specifically requests that the affected structure be replaced, the District Engineer will inform him of the estimated cost and will proceed with the work if so authorized by the Chief of Engineers. On completion of the work, the District Engineer will promptly furnish the Coast Guard District Commander, for settlement, an account of the expense incurred.
(e) Navigation Aids of the Corps of Engineers. (1) Whenever channel dredging or other channel improvements are being performed, necessary temporary markers, such as ranges and light poles, should be installed and maintained by the District Engineer pending the installation of permanent aids by the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard desires that information regarding aids to navigation installed or maintained by District Engineers in connection with harbor or channel improvement be furnished promptly. Such information is needed for inclusion in Notice to Mariners as published by the Coast Guard, and where desirable on the charts of the waters concerned.
(2) District Engineers will notify the Coast Guard District Commander in every case where aids to navigation for marking works of harbor or channel improvements are established or discontinued. Notice should be given of such aids as may be of use or interest to general navigation. Notice need not be given as to such buoys, lights, or fog signals as are of temporary or unimportant character, or of importance only to the Corps of Engineers. Omit also lights or fog signals on ferry slips and on piers used only by certain vessels, and stakes, bushes, and barrel buoys marking shallow and little-used channels.
(3) In placing aids to navigation in connection with harbor or channel improvement works, District Engineers should see that they do not conflict in character or otherwise with other aids to navigation in the vicinity. District Engineers should confer with the Coast Guard District Commander on this subject.
(4) The necessary blank forms for reporting information regarding Corps of Engineers aids will be furnished upon request by the Coast Guard District Commander.
(5) It is essential that the Coast Guard by furnished with information for publication concerning markers installed by the Corps of Engineers as temporary aids to navigation, for new improvements, in advance of permanent aids, and also concerning other markers that may be established in connection with Corps of Engineers operations that may also serve as important aids to navigation. Care will be exercised to see that all markers established are not misleading to general navigation and do not interfere with aids to navigation established by the Coast Guard.
(f) Colors of dredging buoys established by Corps of Engineers. (1) In order to distinguish buoys placed and maintained by the Corps of Engineers for dredging purposes from aids to navigation placed by the Coast Guard, Corps buoys will be painted white with the top 2 feet painted light green.
(2) If buoys with special markings are needed to indicate the different sides of the navigable channel, prior arrangements will be made with the Coast Guard District Commander having jurisdiction.
(g) Information to be furnished by the Corps of Engineers. (1) District Engineers responsible for harbors and waterways shown on charts of the National Ocean Survey (NOAA), will report the channel conditions promptly, using standard tabular forms, to:
(2) Channel survey drawings furnished to the Coast Guard are to include:
(i) Either NAD 27 or State Plane grids.
(ii) Plots of the positions of aids to navigation.
(iii) Written notations of the coordinates in NAD 27 or State Plane Coordinates of the fixed aids to navigation found during the survey.
(3) The standard tabular forms with illustrated data follow:
(i) For channels 400 feet wide and greater (ENG Form 4020-R).
(ii) For channels 100 to 400 feet wide (ENG Form 4021-R).
[ ________ Harbor, ________ (State)]
| Name of channel | Date survey | Project | Minimum depths in channel entering from seaward | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feet width | Miles length | Feet depth | Left outside quarter feet | Mid-channel for half project width feet | Right outside quarter feet | ||
| Kings Island Channel | 3-78 | 300 | 1.14 | 26 | 24 | 23 | 26 |
| Whitehall Channel | 3-78 | 200 | 1.81 | 26 | 27 | 26 | 25 |
(iii) For channels less than 100 feet in width, report controlling depths only based on at least 80 percent of project width, 40 percent on either side of centerline. (The submission of tabular forms is not required for channels having a project depth less than 10 feet except coastal inlets and harbors of refuge.)
(4) The tabulations of depths should be amplified by footnotes or otherwise to show clearly and definitely the location of controlling shoals, tendency of shoals to recur, and all other critical information of special value and importance for safe navigation of the channel. Reaches of channel not presently named should be identified in the tabular form by reference to chartered aids or features, or assigned identifying names, numbers or letters. For localized irregular project areas where the application of the tabular form would not be practical, the controlling depth based on a safe navigable width will be described as well as unusual or critical conditions of shoaling.
(5) The prompt dissemination of the latest detailed information concerning channel conditions is of utmost importance, and necessary measures will be taken to insure that such information is reported without delay simultaneously to the U.S. Naval Oceanographic Office, the Coast Guard, the National Ocean Survey and Defense Mapping Agency. When a dangerous shoaling is found during the progress of a survey, information thereon will be furnished immediately to the above-mentioned agencies, so that such information may be made available to mariners promptly, and buoys shifted to mark the shoal. Descriptions of any dredging or other operations in important channels in tidal waters – either in progress and not already reported, or soon to be undertaken – together with a statement of the work and expected duration, will also be reported in order that Naval and other vessels may be warned to look out for dredges and other plant, temporary markers and lights.
(6) District Engineers having charge of improvements of harbors and waterways shown on charts of the Defense Mapping Agency or of the National Ocean Survey will send to both offices promptly, as ascertained for the correction of such charts, the following information: Descriptions of changes in channel location and depth, or of obstructions that may be discovered, with such prints and other information as may be necessary to permit the existing charts to be corrected to date. All maps should contain sufficient data to permit the fixed plane or reference, bench marks, base lines, etc., to be determined and located. The survey stations should be shown and, when no unreasonable expenditure of time or labor is involved, the map will show one or more triangulation station(s) of the National Ocean Survey in such a way as to facilitate connection of old or new work. The source of authority for the shoreline and topography should be stated on the map. The data supplied should indicate what charts are affected.
(7) When any survey of areas covered by charts of the Defense Mapping Agency or the National Ocean Survey is completed, a print of each tracing will be sent direct to both the Defense Mapping Agency and the National Ocean Survey. It is not necessary that tracings be fully complete as to form and title when such prints are made. An informal manuscript title marked “Advance Sheets”, and containing a description sufficient to identify the locality and to identify the source of the map, will be sufficient.
(8) Information relative to the improvement of harbors and waterways such as dredging operations, and precautions rendered necessary due to the presence of dredging or other plant will, when considered necessary, be brought to the attention of vessel owners or operators regularly using the waterway. This will be done through issuing bulletins or notices by District Engineers.
(h) Special Reports. Changes affecting navigation will be made promptly whenever information of immediate concern to navigation becomes known. Items of information especially desired are channel conditions as revealed by surveys, changes in channel conditions, either by natural causes or by dredging or other work, changes in approved projects for improvement with statements of results expected from proposed operations, descriptions of proposed dredging or other Federal work of improvement such as breakwater, pier, and revetment construction or alterations, descriptions of proposed or completed municipal or private improvements in or affecting navigable waters. Additional items of information desired are descriptions of wrecks, uncharted shoals, and other obstructions to navigation and particulars as to proposed or completed removal of same, changes in buoys or lights, erection of new, or changes in existing bridges, new or revised Federal or local rules and regulations for harbors and channels, and establishment or existence of danger areas in navigable waters. Reproductions of drawings or sketches which will be helpful in interpreting the data shall accompany the reports. The reports will not be limited to a reference to an accompanying drawing or sketch, but will contain a complete description in form suitable for publication in notices to mariners and the monthly supplements to the U.S. Coast Pilot. In this respect, the reports will provide enough information that a single notification to navigational interests will suffice. In the case of dredging or construction work, the bare statement that work will commence or has commenced on a certain date is insufficient. All additional information possible, such as probable duration of operations and object of work, will be given – the latter in the case of dredging being such data as the area to be covered and the depth expected to be provided. The reports required by this paragraph will be identified by reference to the appropriate Engineer Manual or regulation and will be numbered consecutively by each District during the calendar year, starting with number 1 at the beginning of each year.
(i) Information pamphlets, maps, brochures and other material. (1) Pub. L. 85-480, approved 2 July 1958, authorizes the Chief of Engineers to publish information pamphlets, maps, brochures, and other material on river and harbor, flood control, and other Civil Works activities, including related public park and recreation facilities under his jurisdiction, as he may deem to be of value to the general public.
(2) This Public Law authorizes the Chief of Engineers to provide for the sale of any of the material prepared under authority of the act – and of publications, charts, or other material prepared under his direction pursuant to other legislative authorization or appropriation, and to charge therefor a sum of not less than the cost of reproduction.
(3) District Engineers are authorized to publish the material covered in paragraph 8a above, and to sell such material. Except for material specifically prepared for free distribution to the general public, the charges for such other published information will be not less than the cost of its reproduction.
(4) Condition survey maps or charts, sold or otherwise distributed to the public, showing depths will specifically state the date or dates that the surveys were made. They shall also have the following notation printed or stamped thereon:
“The information depicted on this map represents the results of surveys made on the dates indicated and can only be considered as indicating the general conditions existing at that time.”
§ 209.335 Publication.
(a) Section 4 of the Administrative Procedure Act requires publication of general notice of proposed rule making in the
(b) General notice of proposed rule making published in accordance with the above will include: (1) A statement of the time, place, and nature of public rule making proceedings; (2) reference to the authority under which the rule is proposed; and (3) either the terms or substance of the proposed rule or a description of the subjects and issues involved.
§ 209.340 Laboratory investigations and materials testing.
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to define and establish policies and procedures applicable to the performance of investigations and tests at Corps of Engineers laboratory installations for other governmental agencies and private organizations.
(b) Applicability. This regulation applies to Corps of Engineers Divisions and Districts operating soils, concrete, water quality and hydraulic laboratories, and to the Inter-Agency Sedimentation Project.
(c) References. (1) AR 37-20.
(2) AR 37-27.
(3) ER 1-1-6.
(4) ER 10-1-3, Appendix XIII.
(5) ER 1110-1-8100.
(6) ER 1140-2-303.
(d) Policy. Subject to the authority limitations contained in paragraph (f) of this section, laboratory investigations and materials testing may be performed for other agencies of the Federal Government, State and local units of government, foreign governments and private firms under the following conditions:
(1) The work will be performed on a cost reimbursable basis.
(2) Work may be performed for State and local units of government, foreign governments or private firms only when it is firmly established that private commercial laboratory facilities capable of performing such work are not available, or because of location or for other reasons it is clearly impractical to utilize such private commercial laboratory services. The requesting entity must further certify that such services cannot be procured reasonably and expeditiously through ordinary business channels.
(3) Performance of the work will not interfere with provisions of services essential to the mission of the Corps.
(4) Performance of the work will not require an increase in the permanent staff of the facility.
(5) Performance of the work will not require expansion of normal facilities.
(6) The work is within the scope of authorized activities of the laboratory at which the work is to be performed.
(7) Performance of the work will not be adverse to the public interest.
(8) Prior to undertaking laboratory investigations or materials testing for private firms, written certification will be obtained from such firms stating that the results of the work will not be used in litigation or for promotional purposes.
(e) Terms of providing reimbursement for work performed – (1) Federal agencies. Reimbursement for work for the Department of Defense, the Department of the Army, and other Federal Agencies will be in accordance with the procedures prescribed in AR 37-27.
(2) State and local units of Government. Funds to cover the total estimated cost of the work or an initial increment of the estimated cost based on an approved schedule of payment will be deposited with the installation performing the work before any obligations or expenses in connection with the work are incurred; and when funds are being deposited on an approved schedule no obligations or expenses will be incurred in connection with the work in excess of funds on deposit.
(3) Private concerns and foreign governments. Funds will be deposited in advance of the work as required in paragraph (e)(2) of this section. Charges shall include a surcharge of 15 percent of all applicable costs, except under the following conditions.
(i) When the final product will directly contribute to a specific planning, design, or construction activity which derives its principal support from Federal funds in the form of a grant or otherwise.
(ii) Where an exception is granted based on a direct benefit to the Government. Adequate justification, outlining the direct benefits which are expected to accrue to the Government, will be forwarded to HQDA (DAEN-CWE-DC) Washington, DC 20314, for review and approval prior to deletion of the surcharge.
(f) Authority. The following delegations of authority to perform laboratory investigations and materials testing apply.
(1) Division materials laboratories. Division Engineers are delegated the authority to approve laboratory work for Federal, State and local units of government when the total estimated cost of each investigation or test project is $15,000 or less. Division Engineers are also delegated the authority to approve laboratory work for private firms and foreign Governments when the total estimated cost of each investigation or test project is $5,000 or less. Approval is required when the estimated or actual costs exceed those delegations of authority. Requests for approval shall be addressed to DAEN-CWE-DC.
(2) Hydraulic laboratories. Division Engineers and District Engineers operating hydraulic laboratories or hydraulic model laboratories are delegated the authority to approve laboratory work for others within the same limitations and in accordance with the same procedures as apply to Division Materials Laboratories.
(3) Inter-Agency Sedimentation Project, St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota. The District Engineer, St. Paul is authorized to perform work required in procurement, testing and calibration of specialized sediment sampling equipment developed at the Inter-Agency Sedimentation Project. Equipment of this nature will be made available to Federal, State and local governmental agencies at cost. The District Engineer, St. Paul, is also authorized to approve the performance of testing and calibration work for U.S. private firms that fabricate this specialized equipment for commercial sale when the estimated cost for services of Corps personnel is $5,000 or less for a single order. Approval is required when the estimated single order cost for a private firm exceeds $5,000 and when the total cost of work during a fiscal year for any one private firm exceeds $15,000. Requests for approval shall be addressed to HQDA (DAEN-CWE-HY) Washington, DC 20314.
(g) Reports of testing results. Final reports of results will be submitted in accordance with instructions provided by the sponsoring organization, with two copies to HDQA (DAEN-CWE-DC) Washington, DC 20314.
(a) Purpose. This regulation gives general instructions on use of section 215 of the Flood Control Act of 1968 (Pub. L. 90-483) to reimburse a non-Federal public body for construction of part of an authorized Federal project, part of an authorized Federal project. It establishes general policies, outlines procedures to be followed in reaching an agreement with an eligible non-Federal entity, and provides guidance on the provisions of such an agreement. All authorized projects are subject to this Act and regulation.
(b) Applicability. This regulation applies to all field operating agencies having Civil Works responsibilities.
(c) References. (1) Section 215, FCA of 1968 (Pub. L. 90-483, 42 U.S.C. 1962d-5a.). (APP A, this regulation).
(2) Senate Document No. 10, 90th Congress, 1st Session, “Study of Federal Reimbursement Policy for Work by States and other Non-Federal Entities on Authorized Water Resources Projects.”
(3) Section 221, FCA of 1970 (Pub. L. 91-611, 42 U.S.C. 1962d-5b).
(4) ER 405-2-680.
(5) ER 1140-2-301.
(6) ER 1180-1-1, (para. A-310, App. A).
(d) General policy. (1) The specific limitations put upon the allotment of funds authorized by section 215 indicate that only limited use should be made of the authority. It will, therefore, be Corps of Engineers policy to restrict the use of this authority to cases that meet all of the following conditions:
(i) The work, even if the Federal Government does not complete the authorized project, will be separately useful or will be an integral part of a larger non-Federal undertaking that is separately useful;
(ii) The work done by the non-Federal entity will not create a potential hazard;
(iii) Approval of the proposal will be in the general public interest;
(iv) Only work commenced after project authorization and execution of an agreement pursuant to this Regulation will be eligible for reimbursement or credit;
(v) Proposed reimbursement will not exceed the amount that the District Engineer considers a reasonable estimate of the reduction in Federal expenditures resulting from construction of the project component by the non-Federal entity.
(2) Before finally approving any agreement under section 215, the Chief of Engineers will inform the Secretary of the Army and the Chairman (Senate and House), Subcommittee on Public Works, Committee on Appropriations of the proposed arrangements. The Chief of Engineers will not sign an agreement until Secretarial and Committee concurrences are obtained.
(3) Section 215 authority will not be used where it might appear to circumvent the intent of Congress. It will not, for example, be used to initiate work on projects to which Congressional committees have indicated general opposition or refused to provide requested funds, or to accelerate portions of work on which construction has already been commenced by the Federal Government.
(4) Section 215(f) authorizes a specific allotment of funds to reimburse non-Federal entities for work accomplished under the Section. No allotment has been established, nor is one proposed at this time. Until one is, and firm procedures are established, any agreement with a non-Federal entity shall call for reimbursement, or for credit against required contributions, only when construction funds for the Federal project which incorporates the part constructed by the non-Federal entity are appropriated and allocated.
(5) The non-Federal entity will normally be required to develop the design memorandum, engineering plans, and specifications for the work it proposes to undertake. Subject to policies established in ER 1140-2-301, as modified in paragraph (e)(2) of this section, the District Engineer may provide engineering services with funds advanced by the non-Federal entity if he determines it to be impracticable for the entity to obtain the services elsewhere. Non-Federal engineering and overhead costs for the part of the Federal project that the non-Federal entity proposes to construct will be part of the reimbursement agreement.
(6) The agreement shall include local cooperation items required by the project authorization and by Section 221, FCA of 1970.
(7) Reimbursement of non-Federal work under Section 215 is not applicable to small projects authorized under the general authority of Section 107, Pub. L. 86-645, as amended. (33 U.S.C. 577); Section 205, Pub. L. 858, 80th Congress, as amended, (33 U.S.C. 701s); and Section 103, Pub. L. 87-874, as amended, (33 U.S.C. 426g); and Section 14, Pub. L. 79-526 (33 U.S.C. 701r).
(e) Procedures. (1) Non-Federal entities desiring reimbursement under Section 215 for constructing part of an authorized Federal project should confer with the District Engineer and submit a written proposal to him. This proposal will form the basis for consulting, as needed, with OCE and for deciding whether the proposal meets the policy criteria of paragraph (d) of this section, and whether to continue under the procedures below and what sequence to follow.
(2) If Federal preconstruction planning funds are not available to the project and it is considered impractical for the non-Federal entity to prepare a partial design memorandum and/or plans and specifications, the draft agreement may propose that this work be accomplished by the Corps of Engineers through an advance of non-Federal funds for this purpose. Certain advances of funds will be necessary, in any event, to cover other costs which are required on the part of the Corps of Engineers. Paragraph 11 of ER 1140-2-301 requires that requests to the Appropriations Committees for approval of advances of funds should normally be submitted to the Committees by non-Federal interests outside of Corps of Engineers channels. An exception to this procedure will be made in the case of Section 215 proposals in that the request for approval of advances will be made a part of the request to the committees for approval of the overall arrangement referred to in paragraph (d)(2) of this section. Thus, proposed advances of funds for the following purposes will be clearly set forth in the draft agreement: (i) Preparation of a partial design memorandum and/or plans and specifications (ii) corps review of design scheduled for accomplishment by local interests, and (iii) periodic and final inspections.
(3) The District Engineer will submit for review an unsigned draft agreement to OCE. All agreements will be prepared for the signature of the Chief of Engineers.
(4) The District Engineer will be notified of any changes in the draft agreement that the Chief of Engineers may require, and will negotiate a final agreement with the non-Federal entity. After signature of the agreement by the non-Federal entity, the District Engineer will forward three copies to HQDA (DAEN-CWO-C) WASH DC 20314, for signature by the Chief of Engineers.
(5) Upon receipt from OCE of the full executed agreement, the District Engineer will transmit the signed agreement to the non-Federal entity.
(6) The Division Engineer will review the (partial) design memorandum, and, if it meets the relevant criteria in paragraph (d)(1) of this section, will submit it to OCE with the recommendations on whether or not the work may proceed subject to reimbursement under the agreement.
(7) The Division Engineer will approve plans and specifications.
(8) The non-Federal entity will award contract.
(9) The District Engineer will conduct periodic and final inspections.
(10) Upon completion of the local work, the District Engineer will certify the cost data, and that performance has been in accordance with the agreement.
(f) Agreements. Agreements under Section 215 should follow the general format presented in paragraph (c)(6) of this section, adapted as warranted by the specific case. Each agreement shall:
(1) Expire 3 years after the date of execution if the non-Federal entity has not commenced the work contemplated by the agreement.
(2) State the time allowed for completion of the work. A reasonable time shall be allowed, but normally not over 2 construction seasons.
(3) Fully describe the work to be accomplished by the non-Federal entity and specify the manner in which it will be carried out.
(4) The agreement will specify that reimbursement by the Federal Government will not exceed $1,000,000.
(5) Provide for necessary review of designs, plans, and specifications, by the District Engineer.
(6) Provide for examination and review of proposed contracts and for inspection of the work by the District Engineer for conformance with the terms of the agreement.
(7) State fully the basis on which reimbursement or credit shall be determined, and provide for the final adjustment when the balance of the Federal project is constructed. If the improvement proposed by the non-Federal entity includes work that will not become a part of the Federal project, the means of determining the part eligible for reimbursement shall be fully defined.
(8) State that such reimbursement shall depend upon appropriation of funds applicable to the project and shall not take precedence over other pending projects of higher priority.
(9) Specify that reimbursement or credit for non-Federal work shall apply only to that work undertaken after execution of the agreement. The term “work” shall include advance engineering and design as well as actual construction.
(10) State that the agreement is not to be construed as committing the United States to reimbursement if the Federal project is not undertaken, or if the Federal project should be modified in such a way that the work performed by the non-Federal entity does not constitute a part thereof.
(11) Contain applicable equal employment clauses from Armed Services Procurement Regulations.
(g) Nature and amount of reimbursement. (1) The non-Federal entity may be reimbursed by a payment of cash, or, preferably, by reductions in any non-Federal contribution to the Federal project that may have been required by the legislation authorizing it, or by a combination of cash and such reductions.
(2) The amount of reimbursement shall equal the approved expenditures made by the non-Federal entity for work that would have been accomplished at Federal expense if the entire project were carried out by the Corps of Engineers, and as covered in the agreement under paragraphs (f) (7) and (10) of this section. The amount of reimbursement will not exceed, however, the amount that the District Engineer finds to be a reasonable estimate of the reduction in Federal expenditure resulting from construction by the non-Federal entity.
Appendix A to Part 209 – Public Law 90-483, 90th Congress, S. 3710, August 13, 1968
An act authorizing the construction, repair, and preservation of certain public works on rivers and harbors for navigation, flood control, and for other purpose. (82 Stat. 731).
Sec. 215. (a) The Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, may, when he determines it to be in the public interest, enter into agreement providing for reimbursement to States or political subdivisions thereof for work to be performed by such non-Federal public bodies at water resources development projects authorized for construction under the Secretary of the Army and the supervision of the Chief of Engineers. Such agreements may provide for reimbursement of installation costs incurred by such entities or an equivalent reduction in the contributions they would otherwise be required to make, or in appropriate cases, for a combination thereof. The amount of Federal reimbursement, including reductions in contributions, for a single project shall not exceed $1,000,000.
(b) Agreements entered into pursuant to this section shall (1) fully describe the work to be accomplished by the non-Federal public body, and be accompanied by an engineering plan if necessary therefor; (2) specify the manner in which such work shall be carried out; (3) provide for necessary review of design and plans, and inspection of the work by the Chief of Engineers or his designee; (4) state the basis on which the amount of reimbursement shall be determined; (5) state that such reimbursement shall be dependent upon the appropriation of funds applicable thereto or funds available therefor, and shall not take precedence over other pending projects of higher priority for improvements; and (6) specify that reimbursement or credit for non-Federal installation expenditures shall apply only to work undertaken or Federal projects after project authorization and execution of the agreement, and does not apply retroactively to past non-Federal work. Each such agreement shall expire three years after the date on which it is executed if the work to be undertaken by the non-Federal public body has not commenced before the expiration of that period. The time allowed for completion of the work will be determined by the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, and stated in the agreement.
(c) No reimbursement shall be made, and no expenditure shall be credited, pursuant to this section, unless and until the Chief of Engineers or his designee, has certified that the work for which reimbursement or credit is requested has been performed in accordance with the agreement.
(d) Reimbursement for work commenced by non-Federal public bodies no later than one year after enactment of this section, to carry out or assist in carrying out projects for beach erosion control, may be made in accordance with the provisions of section 2 of the Act of August 13, 1946, as amended (33 U.S.C. 426f). Reimbursement for such work may, as an alternative, be made in accordance with the provisions of this section, provided that agreement required herein shall have been executed prior to commencement of the work. Expenditures for projects for beach erosion control commenced by non-Federal public bodies subsequent to one year after enactment of this section may be reimbursed by the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, only in accordance with the provisions of this section.
(e) This section shall not be construed (1) as authorizing the United States to assume any responsibilities placed upon a non-Federal body by the conditions of project authorization, or (2) as committing the United State to reimburse non-Federal interests if the Federal project is not undertaken or is modified so as to make the work performed by the non-Federal Public body no longer applicable.
(f) The Secretary of the Army is authorized to allot from any appropriations hereafter made for civil works not to exceed $10,000,000 for any one fiscal year to carry out the provisions of this section. This limitation does not include specific project authorizations providing for reimbursement.
PART 221 – WORK FOR OTHERS
§ 221.1 Investigation and supervision of hydropower projects under the Federal Power Act (ER 1140-2-4).
(a) Purpose. This regulation
(1) Investigation of applications filed with FERC for permits and licenses, and for relicensing of projects to ascertain impacts on Corps of Engineers responsibilities.
(2) Investigation of applications for surrender or termination of license to ascertain impacts on Corps of Engineers responsibilities.
(3) Supervision and inspection of operations of licensed hydroelectric projects to ascertain impacts on Corps of Engineers responsibilities.
(b) Applicability. This regulation applies to all field operating agencies having Civil Works responsibilities.
(c) References. (1) Federal Power Commission publication entitled “Federal Power Act”, as amended, dated 1 April 1975. The Act was originally enacted 10 June 1920 (41 Stat. 1063, 16 U.S.C. 791-823). This publication can be obtained from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
(2) Code of Federal Regulations, Title 18, part 1 to 149 relating to FERC General Rules and Regulations, available at the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
(3) ER 1145-2-303 (33 CFR 209.120),
(4) ER 1140-2-1, Submission of Data for Headwater Benefits Determination.
(d) Definitions – (1) Licensed project. A non-Federal hydroelectric project for which the FERC has issued a license granting authority for either construction, in the case of a proposed project, or for continued operation and maintenance of an existing project.
(2) Major projects. Hydroelectric projects with more than 2,000 horsepower installed capacity.
(3) Minor projects. Hydroelectric projects having installed capacity of 2,000 horsepower or less.
(4) Preliminary permit application. An application filed by a non-Federal entity with the FERC as a preliminary step in anticipation of filing for a license to construct and operate a hydroelectric project. A preliminary permit does not authorize construction. It merely gives the permittee priority of application for a FERC license over other non-Federal entities for a period of time. The permittee then develops information necessary for inclusion in an application for license to construct and operate a hydroelectric project. Analysis of this information may result in a decision to apply for the license or to withdraw the intent.
(5) Relicensing. A procedure applicable to projects for which the original period of license (usually 50 years) will expire or has expired and application for new license has been or will be filed with the FERC.
(6) Take over. An act whereby the Federal government assumes project ownership. Upon expiration of a license for a hydroelectric project, the United States, under certain specific conditions set forth in section 14 of the Federal Power Act may “take over”, maintain and operate the project. This does not apply to any project owned by a State or local government. Take over procedures are not applicable to “Minor Projects.”
(e) Authorities. The Federal Power Act as amended delegates to the Secretary of the Army, the Chief of Engineers and the Corps of Engineers certain functions necessary for the FERC’s administration of the Act. Implementation was provided through instructions issued by the President in a letter dated 18 May 1931 to the Secretary of War. These functions are set forth in the following excerpts from the Act:
(1) Section 2 of the Act provides in part that:
The Commission may request the President to detail an officer or officers from the Corps of Engineers, or other branches of the United States Army to serve the Commission as engineer officer or officers * * *.
(2) Section 4(e) of the Act provides in part that:
The Commission is hereby authorized and empowered * * * to issue licenses to citizens of the United States, or to any associations of such citizens, or to any corporation organized under the laws of the United States or any State thereof, or to any State or municipality for the purpose of construction, operating, and maintaining dams, water conduits, reservoirs, powerhouses, transmission lines, or other project works necessary or convenient for the development and improvement of navigation and for the development, transmission, and utilization, of power across, along, from or in any of the streams or other bodies of water over which Congress has jurisdiction * * *.
* * *Provided that no license affecting the navigable capacity of any navigable water of the United States shall be issued until the plans of the dam or other structures affecting navigation have been approved by the Chief of Engineers and the Secretary of the Army.
(f) Investigation of application for permits, licenses, or relicensing of projects. Upon referral by the FERC, the Chief of Engineers will assign the investigation of an application for permit, license or relicensing to the appropriate Division Engineer who will submit a report on the investigation as specified herein to HQDA (DAEN-CWE-HY) WASH DC 20314 (exempt from reports control, Paragraph 7-2y, AR 335-15). The investigation should be coordinated with all interested organization elements including Engineering, Construction/Operations, Planning and Office of the Counsel. The date that the report is to be submitted will be specified. The nature of investigation and report by the Division Engineer will depend upon the nature of the request from the FERC. In general, reports as appropriate for the type of application filed with the Commission will consider the following items as pertinent and will include recommendation of pertinent license provisions:
(1) License applications. (i) The effect of the project on navigation and flood control, including adequacies of the plans of the structures affecting navigation. Section 4(e) of the Federal Power Act provides for approval of plans for hydroelectric power projects as noted in paragraph (e)(2) of this section. Section 4(e) approval normally will obviate the need for a Department of Army permit under section 10 of the 1899 River and Harbor Act. The basis for Corps approval under section 4(e) will be limited to effects on navigation; however, section 4(e) does not obviate the need for a Department of the Army permit pursuant to section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (see paragraph (i)(2)) of this section. Such a permit is subject to a full public interest review pursuant to 33 CFR part 320 and the application of the Environmental Protection Agency’s guidelines in 40 CFR part 230.
(ii) Recommendations for license provisions required to protect the interest of navigation. This item is discussed under paragraphs 7, 8 and 9.
(iii) Consideration of the project in relation to a comprehensive plan for developing the basin water resources from the standpoint of the Corps of Engineers’ programs and responsibilities. Specific references should be made to pertinent published Congressional documents containing results of studies and/or to Congressional resolutions directing studies to be made to provide identification.
(iv) Consideration of environmental aspects of a project as related to navigation and flood control matters or other specific Corps interests and responsibilities in particular cases.
(v) The matter of possible redevelopment of an existing project to improve the usefulness of the project in relation to the objectives of the Corps program in the basin. In the case of an unconstructed project, based on request from the Commission, a recommendation along with justification, should be included as to whether or not development should be undertaken by the United States.
(vi) Consideration of structural safety and adequacy of spillway design flood for FERC licensed projects are the responsibility of the FERC. The Dam Safety Act, Pub. L. 92-367 provides that dams constructed pursuant to license issued under the authority of Federal Power Act are specifically exempted from the Corps National inspection program. This does not preclude the Corps District and Division offices from making comments on license applications for the FERC information, about any design deficiencies that are brought to their attention.
(2) Relicensing (new license) application. (i) Consider paragraphs (f) (1) through (6) of this section.
(ii) Recommendations should be furnished to the FERC with respect to possible need for “take over” of a project by the Federal Government. Details on “take over” under the Federal Power Act are provided in part 16 of the CFR, title 18 (part 1 to 149). A copy of part 16 is provided for ready reference in appendix A of this part.
(iii) FERC Preliminary Permit Application. Consider appropriate recommendations to insure coordination of applicant’s studies with the Division or District Engineer in cases where responsibilities and interests of the Corps of Engineers would be affected. The report should include discussion of Corps interests which could result in recommendations for provisions to be included in a subsequent license. In general proposed construction of power facilities at or in conjunction with a Corps reservoir project will be reviewed with the objective of recommending design, construction and operation factors that the applicant must consider in its studies in order for the proposed power development to be compatible, physically and economically, with the authorized function of the Corps project(s).
(g) Terms and conditions for insertion in FERC permits and licenses. In investigation of an application for FERC license or permit, consideration will be given to aspects of the project affecting authorized functions of the Corps as well as to the responsibilities assigned to the Corps by the Federal Power Act. Accordingly, the Division engineer in his report on an application to the Chief of Engineers will always consider the necessity for including in any license or permit terms and conditions to protect the interests of navigation. Recommendations involving other responsibilities of the Corps in the area of water control management such as flood control, low flow augmentation minimum instantaneous releases, and other purposes should also be considered.
(h) Standard terms and conditions used by the FERC in its permits and licenses. Appendix B to this Regulation includes standard terms and conditions used by the FERC in licenses for projects affecting navigable waters of the U.S. The standard articles, included in appendix B, are identified by the FERC in the following Forms:
(1) Form L-3 (Revised October 1975)
Terms and Conditions of License for Constructed Major Project Affecting Navigable Waters of the United States.
(2) Form L-4 (Revised October 1975)
Terms and Conditions of License for Unconstructed Major Project Affecting Navigable Waters of the United States.
(i) Distinction between Corps of Engineers and FERC jurisdiction with respect to non-Federal Hydroelectric projects. (1) The following procedures are currently being followed in connection with Department of Army permit responsibilities involving pre-1920 legislation:
(i) In regard to FERC licensing of projects, Corps responsibilities under section 10 of the River and Harbor Act of 1899, for power related activities, may normally be met through the FERC licensing procedure including insertion of terms and conditions in the license of the interest of navigation. Section 4(e) of the Federal Power Act provides for approval of plans of project works by the Chief of Engineers and Secretary of the Army from the standpoint of interests of navigation. The consideration for our approval under section 4(e) will be limited to effects of project power related activities on navigation.
(ii) Applications to Corps Division or District Engineers for approval of repairs, maintenance or modification of non-Federal water power projects authorized under River and Harbor Acts as well as special Acts of Congress prior to 1920, or requests for advice with respect thereto should be referred to the FERC for consideration in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Power Act. The permittee should be advised that the application is being referred to the FERC for consideration and that if a FERC license is required Corps recommendations will be furnished to the FERC.
(2) Responsibilities under section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act as amended in 1972 (33 U.S.C. 1151) pertinent to discharge of dredged or fill material into the navigable waters at specified disposal sites will be met only through the Department of Army permit procedures as specified in ER 1145-2-303. In regard to FERC cases involving section 404, our report to the FERC through (DAEN-CWE-HY) will specify the need for a Department of Army permit (section 404) if, on the basis of the Division and District Engineers’ reports, such permit is deemed necessary. A Department of the Army permit will be required for any portion of a proposed project which involves the discharge of dredged or fill material into the waters of the United States. This includes the placement of fill necessary for construction of a project’s dam and appurtenant structures.
(3) When applicable, FERC will be advised that the requirement for Department of the Army permit pursuant to section 103 of the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 for the transport of dredged material from the project site for the purpose of dumping it into the ocean waters will be met only through the Department of the Army permit program.
(4) In connection with FERC licensed projects there may be proposed non-power water oriented activities, such as recreational development, which are associated with the overall project but may not be a part of the hydroelectric power facilities at the project. Such cases, if involving navigable waters should be reviewed from the standpoint of need for a section 10 permit. Such section 10 permit actions would involve consideration of the overall public interest, including water quality, fish and wildlife, recreation, general environmental concerns and the needs and welfare of the people. Corps responsibilities for permit requirements under section 10 of the River and Harbor Act of 1899 for nonpower activities affecting navigable waters at the FERC projects will be met only through the Corps permit procedures. The Corps’ report to FERC through (DAEN-CWE-HY) will specify the need for such permit when recommended by the Division and District Engineers’ report.
(j) Investigation of applications for surrender or termination of license. The period of the FERC license for hydroelectric projects is usually 50 years. During and/or upon the expiration of the period of a license, a licensee may file with the FERC an application for surrender or termination of its license. These applications may encompass requests for physical removal of an existing dam and/or powerhouse structures from a stream. Division Engineers who would be assigned by the Chief of Engineers to review such applications will consider, in their review and report to DAEN-CWE-HY, the possibility that sediment discharge resulting from removal of a dam structure from a navigable river or from any site that may affect navigable waters would impair the anchorage and navigation and/or flood carrying capacity of the stream. In cases where there is a possibility of significant downstream shoaling (sedimentation) as the result of removal of a dam and its appurtenant structures, recommendation may be made to the FERC, through DAEN-CWE-HY, requiring licensee as a condition of approval of dam removal to agree to bear the expense for removal of any shoaling at the navigable river(s) which would be determined by the Corps to be detrimental to navigation. Other recommendations to be considered include gradual lowering of a dam over a period of time and/or possibility of sediment removal prior to dam removal. It should also be noted that a Department of the Army permit under section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act amendments of 1972 (33 U.S.C. 1151), as discussed in Paragraph 9b of this regulation, may be needed in connection with removal of dams on or affecting the navigable waters if a discharge of dredged or fill material also occurs during the removal operation. Other recommendations within the Corps authority that should be considered in reviewing applications for surrender or termination of licenses for projects where their power facilities have been removed, or recommended for removal, is that upon any approval of such application by the FERC, continuation of existence of the nonpower project on or affecting the navigable waters of the U.S. will require a Department of the Army permit in compliance with section 10 of the River and Harbor Act of 1899. Furthermore, it should be noted that in the absence of FERC nonpower use license, pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 808(b), the structural safety and maintenance of dam and reservoir for a nonpower project will be governed by the laws and regulations of the State in which the project is located.
(k) Supervision and inspection of operation of licensed hydroelectric projects. Corps Division and District Engineers responsibilities with respect to any project affecting navigable waters include surveillance of operation and maintenance to insure that the interests of navigation are not adversely affected. In addition, in certain cases the Corps, at the request of the FERC, may act as agent for the FERC for overall supervision of project operation and maintenance. Corps Division Engineers have, in the past, represented the FERC in supervision and inspection of a number of FERC licensed projects within their respective divisions. The Commission by letter dated March 4, 1976 relieved the Corps of Engineers from acting as the Commission’s representative for supervision and inspection of its licensed projects. This responsibility has been transferred by the Commission to its own regional engineers. There are no requirements for any periodic or annual reports from the Division offices regarding the operation of FERC licensed hydroelectric projects. However, Division Engineers will report to DAEN-CWE-HY on a current basis any significant detrimental effects with respect to Corps of Engineers responsibilities or other matters which come to their attention.
(l) Safety of licensed hydroelectric projects. The Dam Safety Act, Public Law 92-367, provides that dams constructed pursuant to licenses issued under the authority of the Federal Power Act are specifically exempted from the national inspection program administered by the Corps. However, the law further provides that the Secretary of the Army upon request of the FERC may inspect dams which have been licensed under the Federal Power Act. The Commission by letter dated August 29, 1972 informed the Corps that the Commission does not expect to request the Corps’ assistance for inspecting the projects licensed under the Federal Power Act.
(m) Supervision of construction of licensed hydroelectric projects. In cases where the FERC may request the Corps to supervise the actual construction of licensed hydroelectric project on behalf of the Commission, instructions will be furnished to the appropriate District Engineer through the Division Engineer at the time the request is made.
(n) Other investigation under the Federal Power Act. Corps of Engineers operations under the Federal Power Act also include participation in FERC procedures in determining headwater benefits from Corps reservoir projects (RCS, 1461-FPC). This matter is discussed in ER 1140-2-1.
(o) Funding of operations under the Federal Power Act. (1) The salaries of the Corps of Engineers personnel involved in investigations discussed herein will be charged against funds for “Special Investigations” under the appropriation for “General Expenses.” The FERC may provide reimbursement if requested by the Chief of Engineers to cover the nonpersonal expenses which may be incurred in the investigation and supervision of projects under permits and licenses.
(2) Non-personal costs amounting to less than $100 for any single investigation will not be reimbursed from the Commission funds but will be charged also to “Special Investigations” under the appropriations for “General Expenses.” Each Division Engineer charged with a detailed investigation of an application for license or the supervision of a project that will require more than a nominal amount of nonpersonal costs will be specifically requested to submit an estimate of the funds required upon assignment of the work by the Chief of Engineers.
(3) Reimbursement from the FERC funds for nonpersonal costs in excess of $100 will be made by the Chief of Engineers upon submission of a voucher on Standard Form 1080 by the District Engineer through the Division Engineer. The voucher will show the fiscal year during which the work was done and the Commission project number on which the money was spent.
Appendix A to Part 221 – Part 16-Procedures Relating to Takeover and Relicensing of Licensed Projects
This part implements the amendments of sections 7(c), 14, and 15 of part I of the Federal Power Act, as amended, enacted by Public Law 90-451, 82 Stat. 616, approved August 3, 1968. It applies to projects subject to sections 14 and 15 of the Federal Power Act including projects for which a nonpower license may be issued. Procedures are provided for the filing of applications for either power or nonpower licenses for projects whose licenses are expiring. A license for a power project issued to either the original licensee or another licensee is referred to in this part as a “new license” and a license for a nonpower project as a “non-power license”. Also provided are procedures for the filing of recommendations for takeover by Federal departments or agencies and applications for renewal of licenses not subject to section 14.
In order that there should be adequate notice and opportunity to file timely applications for a license the Commission’s Secretary will give notice of the expiration of license of a project (except transmission line and minor projects) 5 years in advance thereof in the same manner as provided in section 4(f) of the Act. The Secretary shall upon promulgation of the rules herein give notice, as provided in section 4(f) of the Act, of all whose license terms have expired since January 1, 1968, or which will expire within 5 years of the effective date of this rule. In addition, the Commission each year will publish in its annual report and in the
(a) An existing licensee must file an application for a “new license” or “nonpower license” or a statement of intention not to file an application for a “new license” no earlier than 5 years and no later than 3 years prior to the expiration of its license, except that, where the license will expire within 3
(b) Any other person or municipality may file an application for a “new license” or “non-power license” within 5 years of the expiration of the license, but in no event, unless authorized by the Commission, later than 6 months after issuance of notice of the filing of an application or statement by the licensee under § 16.4 or 2
(c) Any application submitted after the expiration of the time specified herein for filing must be accompanied by a motion requesting permission to file late, which motion shall detail the reasons of good cause why the application was not timely filed and how the public interest would be served by its consideration.
When any timely application or statement within the meaning of § 16.3 is received, or when the Commission grants any motion for consideration of a late filed application, notice of receipt thereof will be furnished the applicant, and public notice will be given in the same manner as provided in sections 4(f) and 15(b) of the Act (49 Stat. 838; 41 Stat. 1072; 82 Stat. 616; 16 U.S.C. 797, 808) §§ 1.37 and 2.1 of this chapter, the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, 48 Stat. 401, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq., and by publication in the
No application for annual license need be filed nor will such application be accepted under section 15 of the Act. An existing licensee making timely filing for a new license will be deemed to have filed for an annual license. If the Commission has not acted upon an application by licensee for a new license at the expiration of the license terms, by the issuance of an order granting, denying or dismissing it, an annual license shall be issued by notice of the Secretary.
(a) Each application for a new license hereunder shall conform in form to § 131.2 of this chapter, and shall set forth in appropriate detail all information and exhibits prescribed in §§ 4.40 through 4.42 of this chapter, inclusive and in § 4.51 of this chapter, as well as additional information specified in paragraphs (b) through (e) of this section, except that Exhibit A may be incorporated in an application by reference where one applicant files applications for several projects, one of which already contains an Exhibit A or in any case where applicant has filed an Exhibit A within 10 years preceding the filing of the application, and that Exhibits N and O as specified in § 4.41 of this chapter need only be filed as provided in paragraph (c) of this section. An original and fourteen conformed copies of the application and all accompanying exhibits shall be submitted to the Commission plus one additional conformed copy for each interested State Commission.
(b) An application for a “new license” hereunder shall include a statement showing the amount which licensee estimates would be payable if the project were to be taken over at the end of the license term pursuant to the provisions of sections 14 and 15 of the Federal Power Act. This statement shall include estimates of: (1) Fair value; (2) net investment; and (3) severance damages. (This subsection is not applicable to State, municipal, or nonlicensee applicants.)
(c) If the applicant proposes project works in addition to those already under license, the maps, plans, and descriptions of the project works (Exs. I, J, L and M) shall distinguish the project works of parts thereof which have been constructed from those to be constructed. Exhibits N and O shall also be included in the application relating to new construction.
(d) Applicant shall furnish its plans for the future modification or redevelopment of the project, if any, and shall set forth in detail why technically feasible, additional capacity is not proposed for installation at the time of relicensing.
(e) Applicant shall file a statement on the effect that takeover by the United States or relicensing to another applicant would have upon the supply of electric energy to the system with which it is interconnected, the rates charged its customers, the licensee’s financial condition, and taxes collected by local, State, and Federal Governments. (This subsection is not applicable to State, municipal or nonlicensee applicants.)
Each application for “non-power license” shall generally follow the form prescribed in § 131.6 of this chapter, except for subsections 7 and 8 thereof. It shall be accompanied by Exhibits K, L, R, and S prepared as described in section 4.41, and shall include the information specified in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this section. Unless otherwise specified, an original and 14 conformed copies of the application and all accompanying exhibits shall be submitted with one additional conformed copy for each interested State commission. Additional information may be requested by the Commission if desired.
(a) Applicant shall furnish a description of the nonpower purpose for which the project is to be utilized and a showing of how such use conforms with a comprehensive plan for improving or developing a waterway or waterways for beneficial uses, including a statement of the probable impact which conversion of the project to nonpower use will have on the power supply of the system served by the project.
(b) Applicant shall identify the State, municipal, interstate or Federal agency, if any, which is authorized or willing to assume regulatory supervision over the land, waterways and facilities to be included within the nonpower project. (If there is such an agency, applicant shall forward one copy of the application to such agency.)
(c) Applicant shall submit a proposal for the removal or other disposition of power facilities of the project.
A recommendation that the United States exercise its right to take over a project may be filed by any Federal department or agency no earlier than 5 years and no later than 2 years prior to the expiration of the license term; Provided, however, That such recommendation shall not be filed later than 9 months after the issuance of a notice of application for a new license. Departments or agencies filing such recommendations shall thereby become parties to the relicensing-takeover proceeding. An original and 14 copies of the recommendation shall be filed together with one additional copy for each interested State commission. The recommendation shall specify the project works which would be taken over by the United States, shall include a detailed description of the proposed Federal operation of the project, including any plans for its redevelopment and shall indicate how takeover would serve the public interest as fully as non-Federal development and operation. It shall also include a statement indicating whether the agency making the recommendation intends to undertake operation of the project. A copy of the recommendation shall be served upon the licensee by the Commission’s Secretary. Any applicant for a new license covering all or part of the project involved in the takeover recommendation shall have 120 days within which to serve a reply to the recommendation upon the Commission with copies to any parties in the proceeding.
If the Commission, after notice and opportunity for hearing, concludes upon departmental recommendation, a proposal of any party, or its own motion, that the standards of section 10(a) of the Act would best be served if a project whose license is expiring is taken over by the United States, it will issue its findings and recommendations to this effect, and after any modification thereof, upon consideration of any application for reconsideration, made in conformity with the provisions of § 1.34 of this chapter governing applications for rehearing, forward copies of its findings and recommendations to the Congress.
If the Commission does not recommend to the Congress that a project be taken over, a Federal department or agency which has filed a timely recommendation for takeover as provided in this part may, within thirty (30) days of issuance of an order granting a license, file a motion, with copies to the parties in the proceeding, before the Commission requesting a stay of the license order. Upon the filing of such a motion, the license order automatically will be stayed for 2 years from the date of issuance of the order, unless the stay is terminated earlier upon motion of the department or agency requesting the stay or by action of Congress. The Commission will notify Congress of any such stay. Upon expiration or termination of the stay, including any extension thereof by act of Congress, the Commission’s license order shall automatically become effective in accordance with its terms. The Commission will notify Congress of each license order which has become effective by reason of the expiration or termination of a stay.
A determination whether or not there is to be a Federal takeover of a project would ultimately be made by Congress through the enactment of appropriate legislation. If Congress authorizes takeover, the Secretary will immediately give the Licensee not less than 2 years’ notice in writing of such action. Within 6 months of issuance of such notice the Licensee shall present to the Commission any claim for compensation consistent with the provisions of section 14 of the Federal Power Act and the regulations of the Commission.
Licenses whose minor or minor part licenses are not subject to sections 14 and 15 of the Act and wish to continue operation of the project after the end of the license term shall file an application for a “new license” 1 year prior to the expiration of their original license in accordance with applicable provisions of part 4 of this chapter.
Acceptance for filing or rejection of applications under this part shall be in accordance with the provisions of § 4.31 of this chapter.
Appendix B to Part 221 – Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Form L-3 (Revised October 1975)
Article 1. The entire project, as described in this order of the Commission, shall be subject to all of the provisions, terms, and conditions of the license.
Article 2. No substantial change shall be made in the maps, plans, specifications, and statements described and designated as exhibits and approved by the Commission in its order as a part of the license until such change shall have been approved by the Commission: Provided, however, That if the Licensee or the Commission deems it necessary or desirable that said approved exhibits, or any of them, be changed, there shall be submitted to the Commission for approval a revised, or additional exhibit or exhibits covering the proposed changes which, upon approval by the Commission, shall become a part of the license and shall supersede, in whole or in part, such exhibit or exhibits theretofore made a part of the license as may be specified by the Commission.
Article 3. The project area and project works shall be in substantial conformity with the approved exhibits referred to in Article 2 herein or as changed in accordance with the provisions of said article. Except when emergency shall require for the protection of navigation, life, health, or property, there shall not be made without prior approval of the Commission any substantial alteration or addition not in conformity with the approved plans to any dam or other project works under the license or any substantial use of project lands and waters not authorized herein; and any emergency alteration, addition, or use so made shall thereafter be subject to such modification and change as the Commission may direct. Minor changes in project works, or in uses of project lands and waters, or divergence from such approved exhibits may be made if such changes will not result in a decrease in efficiency, in a material increase in cost, in an adverse environmental impact, or in impairment of the general scheme of development; but any of such minor changes made without the prior approval of the Commission, which in its judgement have produced or will produce any of such results shall be subject to such alteration as the Commission may direct.
Article 4. The project, including its operation and maintenance and any work incidental to additions or alterations authorized by the Commission, whether or not conducted upon lands of the United States, shall be subject to the inspection and supervision of the Regional Engineer, Federal Power Commission, in the region wherein the project is located, or of such other officer or agent as the Commission may designate, who shall be the authorized representative of the Commission for such purposes. The Licensee shall cooperate fully with said representative and shall furnish him such information as he may require concerning the operation and maintenance of the project, and any such alterations thereto, and shall notify him of the date upon which work with respect to any alteration will begin, as far in advance thereof as said representative may reasonably specify, and shall notify him promptly in writing of any suspension of work for a period of more than one week, and of its resumption and completion. The Licensee shall submit to said representative a detailed program of inspection by the Licensee that will provide for an adequate and qualified inspection force for construction of any such alterations to the project. Construction of said alterations or any feature thereof shall not be initiated until the program of inspection for the alterations or any feature thereof has been approved by said representative. The Licensee shall allow said representative and other officers or employees of the United States, showing proper credentials, free and unrestricted access to, through, and across the project lands and projects works in the performance of their official duties. The Licensee shall comply with such rules and regulations of general or special applicability as the Commission may prescribe from time to time for the protection of life, health, or property.
Article 5. The Licensee, within five years from the date of issuance of the license, shall acquire title in fee or the right to use in perpetuity all lands, other than lands of the United States, necessary or appropriate for the construction, maintenance, and operation of the project. The Licensee or its successors and assigns shall, during the period of the license, retain the possession of all project property covered by the license as issued or as later amended, including the project area, the project works, and all franchises, easements, water rights, and rights of occupancy and use; and none of such properties shall be voluntarily sold, leased, transferred, abandoned, or otherwise disposed of without the prior written approval of the Commission, except that the Licensee may lease or otherwise dispose of interests in projects lands or property without specific written approval of the Commission pursuant to the then current regulations of the Commission. The provisions of this article are not intended to prevent the abandonment or the retirement from service of structures, equipment, or other project works in connection with replacements thereof when they become obsolete, inadequate, or inefficient for further service due to wear and tear; and mortgage or trust deeds or judicial sales made thereunder, or tax sales, shall not be deemed voluntary transfers within the meaning of this article.
Article 6. In the event the project is taken over by the United States upon the termination of the license as provided in Section 14 of the Federal Power Act, or is transferred to a new licensee or to a non-power licensee under the provisions of Section 15 of said Act the Licensee, its successors and assigns shall be responsible for, and shall make good any defect of title to, or of right of occupancy and use in, any of such project property that is necessary or appropriate or valuable and serviceable in the maintenance and operation of the project, and shall pay and discharge, or shall assume responsibility for payment and discharge of, all liens or encumbrances upon the projects or project property created by the Licensee or created or incurred after the issuance of the license: Provided, That the provisions of this article are not intended to require the Licensee, for the purpose of transferring the project to the United States or to a new licensee, to acquire any different title to, or right of occupancy and use in, any of such project property than was necessary to acquire for its own purposes as the Licensee.
Article 7. The actual legitimate original cost of the project, and of any addition thereto or betterment thereof, shall be determined by the Commission in accordance with the Federal Power Act and the Commission’s Rules and Regulations thereunder.
Article 8. The licensee shall install and thereafter maintain gages and stream-gaging stations for the purpose of determining the stage and flow of the stream or streams on which the project is located, the amount of water held in and withdrawn from storage, and the effective head on the turbines; shall provide for the required reading of such gages and for the adequate rating of such stations; and shall install and maintain standard meters adequate for the determination of the amount of electric energy generated by the project works. The number, character, and location of gages, meters, or other measuring devices, and the method of operation thereof, shall at all times be satisfactory to the Commission or its authorized representative. The Commission reserves the right, after notice and opportunity for hearing, to require such alterations in the number, character, and location of gages, meters, or other measuring devices, and the method of operation thereof, as are necessary to secure adequate determinations. The installation of gages, the rating of said stream or streams, and the determination of the flow thereof, shall be under the supervision of, or in cooperation with, the District Engineer of the United States Geological Survey having charge of stream-gaging operations in the region of the project, and the Licensee shall advance to the United States Geological Survey the amount of funds estimated to be necessary for such supervision, or cooperation for such periods as may be mutually agreed upon. The Licensee shall keep accurate and sufficient records of the foregoing determinations to the satisfaction of the Commission, and shall make return of such records annually at such time and in such form as the Commission may prescribe.
Article 9. The Licensee shall, after notice and opportunity for hearing, install additional capacity or make other changes in the project as directed by the Commission, to the extent that it is economically sound and in the public interest to do so.
Article 10. The Licensee shall, after notice and opportunity for hearing, coordinate the operation of the project, electrically and hydraulically, with such other projects or power systems and in such manner as the Commission may direct in the interest of power and other beneficial public uses of water resources, and on such conditions concerning the equitable sharing of benefits by the Licensee as the Commission may order.
Article 11. Whenever the Licensee is directly benefited by the construction work of another licensee, a permittee, or the United States on a storage reservoir or other headwater improvement, the Licensee shall reimburse the owner of the headwater improvement for such part of the annual charges for interest, maintenance, and depreciation thereof as the Commission shall determine to be equitable, and shall pay to the United States the cost of making such determination as fixed by the Commission. For benefits provided by a storage reservoir or other headwater improvement of the United States, the Licensee shall pay to the Commission the amounts for which it is billed from time to time for such headwater benefits and for the cost of making the determinations pursuant to the then current regulations of the Commission under the Federal Power Act.
Article 12. The United States specifically retains and safeguards the right to use water in such amount, to be determined by the Secretary of the Army, as may be necessary for the purposes of navigation on the navigable waterway affected; and the operations of the Licensee, so far as they affect the use, storage and discharge from storage of waters affected by the license, shall at all time be controlled by such reasonable rules and regulations as the Secretary of the Army may prescribe in the interest of navigation, and as the Commission may prescribe for the protection of life, health, and property, and in the interest of the fullest practicable conservation and utilization of such waters for power purposes and for other beneficial public uses, including recreational purposes, and the Licensee shall release water from the project reservoir at such rate in cubic feet per second, or such volume in acre-feet per specified period of time, as the Secretary of the Army may prescribe in the interest of navigation, or as the Commission may prescribe for the other purposes hereinbefore mentioned.
Article 13. On the application of any person, association, corporation, Federal agency, State or municipality, the Licensee shall permit such reasonable use of its reservoir or other project properties, including works, lands and water rights, or parts thereof, as may be ordered by the Commission, after notice and opportunity for hearing, in the interests of comprehensive development of the waterway or waterways involved and the conservation and utilization of the water resources of the region for water supply or for the purposes of steam-electric, irrigation, industrial, municipal or similar uses. The Licensee shall receive reasonable compensation for use of its reservoir or other project properties or parts thereof for such purposes, to include at least full reimbursement for any damages or expenses which the joint use causes the Licensee to incur. Any such compensation shall be fixed by the Commission either by approval of an agreement between the Licensee and the party or parties benefiting or after notice and opportunity for hearing. Applications shall contain information in sufficient detail to afford a full understanding of the proposed use, including satisfactory evidence that the applicant possesses necessary water rights pursuant to applicable State law, or a showing of cause why such evidence cannot concurrently be submitted, and a statement as to the relationship of the proposed use to any State or municipal plans or orders which may have been adopted with respect to the use of such waters.
Article 14. In the construction or maintenance of the project works, the Licensee shall place and maintain suitable structures and devices to reduce to a reasonable degree the liability of contact between its transmission lines and telegraph, telephone and other signal wires or power transmission lines constructed prior to its transmission lines and not owned by the Licensee, and shall also place and maintain suitable structures and devices to reduce to a reasonable degree the liability of any structures or wires falling or obstructing traffic or endangering life. None of the provisions of this article are intended to relieve the Licensee from any responsibility or requirement which may be imposed by any other lawful authority for avoiding of eliminating inductive interference.
Article 15. The Licensee shall, for the conservation and development of fish and wildlife resources, construct, maintain, and operate, or arrange for the construction, maintenance, and operation of such reasonable facilities, and comply with such reasonable modifications of the project structures and operation, as may be ordered by the Commission upon its own motion or upon the recommendation of the Secretary of the Interior or the fish and wildlife agency or agencies of any State in which the project or a part thereof is located, after notice and opportunity for hearing.
Article 16. Whenever the United States shall desire, in connection with the project, to construct fish and wildlife facilities or to improve the existing fish and wildlife facilities at its own expense, the Licensee shall permit the United States or its designated agency to use, free of cost, such of the Licensee’s lands and interests in lands, reservoirs, waterways and project works as may be reasonably required to complete such facilities or such improvements thereof. In addition, after notice and opportunity for hearing, the Licensee shall modify the project operation as may be reasonably prescribed by the Commission in order to permit the maintenance and operation of the fish and wildlife facilities constructed or improved by the United States under the provisions of this article. This article shall not be interpreted to place any obligation on the United States to construct or improve fish and wildlife facilities or to relieve the Licensee of any obligation under this license.
Article 17. The Licensee shall construct, maintain, and operate, or shall arrange for the construction, maintenance, and operation of such reasonable recreational facilities, including modifications thereto, such as access roads, wharves, launching ramps, beaches, picnic and camping areas, sanitary facilities, and utilities, giving consideration to the needs of the physically handicapped, and shall comply with such reasonable modifications of the project, as may be prescribed hereafter by the Commission during the term of this license upon its own motion or upon the recommendation of the Secretary of the Interior or other interested Federal or State agencies, after notice and opportunity for hearing.
Article 18. So far as is consistent with proper operation of the project, the Licensee shall allow the public free access, to a reasonable extent, to project waters and adjacent project lands owned by the Licensee for the purpose of full public utilization of such lands and waters for navigation and for outdoor recreational purposes, including fishing and hunting: Provided, That the Licensee may reserve from public access such portions of the project waters, adjacent lands, and project facilities as may be necessary for the protection of life, health, and property.
Article 19. In the construction, maintenance, or operation of the project, the Licensee shall be responsible for, and shall take reasonable measures to prevent, soil erosion on lands adjacent to streams or other waters, stream sedimentation, and any form of water or air pollution. The Commission, upon request or upon its own motion, may order the Licensee to take such measures as the Commission finds to be necessary for these purposes, after notice and opportunity for hearing.
Article 20. The Licensee shall clear and keep clear to an adequate width lands along open conduits and shall dispose of all temporary structures, unused timber, brush, refuse, or other material unnecessary for the purposes of the project which results from the clearing of lands or from the maintenance or alteration of the project works. In addition, all trees along the periphery of project reservoirs which may die during operations of the project shall be removed. All clearing of the lands and disposal of the unnecessary material shall be done with due diligence and to the satisfaction of the authorized representatives of the Commission and in accordance with appropriate Federal, State, and local statutes and regulations.
Article 21. Material may be dredged or excavated from, or placed as fill in, project lands and/or waters only in the prosecution of work specifically authorized under the license; in the maintenance of the project; or after obtaining Commission approval, as appropriate. Any such material shall be removed and/or deposited in such manner as to reasonably preserve the environmental values of the project and so as not to interfere with traffic on land or water. Dredging and filling in a navigable water of the United States shall also be done to the satisfaction of the District Engineer, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality.
Article 22. Whenever the United States shall desire to construct, complete, or improve navigation facilities in connection with the project, the Licensee shall convey to the United States, free of cost, such of its lands and rights-of-way and such rights of passage through its dams or other structures, and shall permit such control of its pools, as may be required to complete and maintain such navigation facilities.
Article 23. The operation of any navigation facilities which may be constructed as a part of, or in connection with, any dam or diversion structure constituting a part of the project works shall at all times be controlled by such reasonable rules and regulations in the interest of navigation, including control of the level of the pool caused by such dam or diversion structure, as may be made from time to time by the Secretary of the Army.
Article 24. The Licensee shall furnish power free of cost to the United States for the operation and maintenance of navigation facilities in the vicinity of the project at the voltage and frequency required by such facilities and at a point adjacent thereto, whether said facilities are constructed by the Licensee or by the United States.
Article 25. The Licensee shall construct, maintain, and operate at its own expense such lights and other signals for the protection of navigation as may be directed by the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating.
Article 26. If the Licensee shall cause or suffer essential project property to be removed or destroyed or to become unfit for use, without adequate replacement, or shall abandon or discontinue good faith operation of the project or refuse or neglect to comply with the terms of the license and the lawful orders of the Commission mailed to the record address of the Licensee or its agent, the Commission will deem it to be the intent of the Licensee to surrender the license. The Commission, after notice and opportunity for hearing, may require the Licensee to remove any or all structures, equipment and power lines within the project boundary and to take any such other action necessary to restore the project waters, lands, and facilities remaining within the project boundary to a condition satisfactory to the United States agency having jurisdiction over its lands or the Commission’s authorized representative, as appropriate, or to provide for the continued operation and maintenance of nonpower facilities and fulfill such other obligations under the license as the Commission may prescribe. In addition, the Commission in its discretion, after notice and opportunity for hearing, may also agree to the surrender of the license when the Commission, for the reasons recited herein, deems it to be the intent of the Licensee to surrender the license.
Article 27. The right of the Licensee and of its successors and assigns to use or occupy waters over which the United States has jurisdiction, or lands of the United States under the license, for the purpose of maintaining the project works or otherwise, shall absolutely cease at the end of the license period, unless the Licensee has obtained a new license pursuant to the then existing laws and regulations, or an annual license under the terms and conditions of this license.
Article 28. The terms and conditions expressly set forth in the license shall not be constructed as impairing any terms and conditions of the Federal Power Act which are not expressly set forth herein.
Article 1. The entire project, as described in this order of the Commission, shall be subject to all of the provisions, terms, and conditions of the license.
Article 2. No substantial change shall be made in the maps, plans, specifications, and statements described and designated as exhibits and approved by the Commission in its order as a part of the license until such change shall have been approved by the Commission: Provided, however, That if the Licensee or the Commission deems it necessary or desirable that said approved exhibits, or any of them, be changed, there shall be submitted to the Commission for approval a revised, or additional exhibit or exhibits covering the proposed changes which, upon approval by the Commission, shall become a part of the license and shall supersede, in whole or in part, such exhibit or exhibits theretofore made a part of the license as may be specified by the Commission.
Article 3. The project works shall be constructed in substantial conformity with the approved exhibits referred to in Article 2 herein or as changed in accordance with the provisions of said article. Except when emergency shall require for the protection of navigation, life, health, or property, there shall not be made without prior approval of the Commission any substantial alteration or addition not in conformity with the approved plans to any dam or other project works under the license or any substantial use of project lands and waters not authorized herein; and any emergency alteration, addition, or use so made shall thereafter be subject to such modification and change as the Commission may direct. Minor changes in project works, or in uses of project lands and waters, or divergence from such approved exhibits may be made if such changes will not result in a decrease in efficiency, in a material increase in cost, in an adverse environmental impact, or in impairment of the general scheme of development; but any of such minor changes made without the prior approval of the Commission, which in its judgment have produced or will produce any of such results, shall be subject to such alteration as the Commission may direct.
Upon the completion of the project, or at such other time as the Commission may direct, the Licensee shall submit to the Commission for approval revised exhibits insofar as necessary to show any divergence from or variations in the project area and project boundary as finally located or in the project works as actually constructed when compared with the area and boundary shown and the works described in the license or in the exhibits approved by the Commission, together with a statement in writing setting forth the reasons which in the opinion of the Licensee necessitated or justified variation in or divergence from the approved exhibits. Such revised exhibits shall, if and when approved by the Commission, be made a part of the license under the provisions of Article 2 hereof.
Article 4. The construction, operation, and maintenance of the project and any work incidental to additions or alterations shall be subject to the inspection and supervision of the Regional Engineer, Federal Power Commission, in the region wherein the project is located, or of such other officer or agent as the Commission may designate, who shall be the authorized representative of the Commission for such purposes. The Licensee shall cooperate fully with said representative and shall furnish him a detailed program of inspection by the Licensee that will provide for an adequate and qualified inspection force for construction of the project and for any subsequent alterations to the project. Construction of the project works or any feature or alterations thereof shall not be initiated until the program of inspection for the project works or any such feature thereof has been approved by said representative. The Licensee shall also furnish to said representative such further information as he may require concerning the construction, operation, and maintenance of the project, and of any alteration thereof, and shall notify him of the date upon which work will begin, as far in advance thereof as said representative may reasonably specify, and shall notify him promptly in writing of any suspension of work for a period of more than one week, and of its resumption and completion. The Licensee shall allow said representative and other officers or employees of the United States, showing proper credentials, free and unrestricted access to, through, and across the project lands and project works in the performance of their official duties. The Licensee shall comply with such rules and regulations of general or special applicability as the Commission may prescribe from time to time for the protection of life, health, or property.
Article 5. The Licensee, within 5 years from the date of issuance of the license, shall acquire title in fee or other right to use in perpetuity all lands, other than lands of the United States, necessary or appropriate for the construction, maintenance, and operation of the project. The Licensee or its successors and assigns shall, during the period of the license, retain the possession of all project property covered by the license as issued or as later amended, including the project area, the project works, and all franchises, easements, water and rights of occupancy and use; and none of such properties shall be voluntarily sold, leased, transferred, abandoned, or otherwise disposed of without the prior written approval of the Commission, except that the Licensee may lease or otherwise dispose of interests in project lands or property without specific written approval of the Commission pursuant to the then current regulations of the Commission. The provisions of this article are not intended to prevent the abandonment or the retirement from service of structures, equipment, or other project works in connection with replacements thereof when they become obsolete, inadequate, or inefficient for further service due to wear and tear; and mortgage or trust deeds or judicial sales made thereunder, or tax sales, shall not be deemed voluntary transfers within the meaning of this article.
Article 6. In the event the project is taken over by the United States upon the termination of the license as provided in Section 14 of the Federal Power Act, or is transferred to a new licensee or to a non-power licensee under the provisions of Section 15 of said Act, the Licensee, its successors and assigns shall be responsible for, and shall make good any defect of title to, or of right of occupancy and use in, any of such project property that is necessary or appropriate or valuable and serviceable in the maintenance and operation of the project, and shall pay and discharge, or shall assume responsibility for payment and discharge of, all liens or encumbrances upon the project or project property created by the Licensee or created or incurred after the issuance of the License: Provided, That the provisions of this article are not intended to require the Licensee, for the purpose of transferring the project to the United States or to a new licensee, to acquire any different title to, or right of occupancy and use in, any of such project property than was necessary to acquire for its own purposes as the Licensee.
Article 7. The actual legitimate original cost of the project, and of any addition thereto or betterment thereof, shall be determined by the Commission in accordance with the Federal Power Act and the Commission’s Rules and Regulations thereunder.
Article 8. The Licensee shall install and thereafter maintain gages and stream-gaging stations for the purpose of determining the stage and flow of the stream or streams on which the project is located, the amount of water held in and withdrawn from storage, and the effective head on the turbines; shall provide for the required reading of such gages and for the adequate rating of such stations; and shall install and maintain standard meters adequate for the determination of the amount of electric energy generated by the project works. The number, character, and location of gages, meters, or other measuring devices, and the method of operation thereof, shall at all times be satisfactory to the Commission or its authorized representative. The Commission reserves the right, after notice and opportunity for hearing, to require such alterations in the number, character, and location of gages, meters, or other measuring devices, and the method of operation thereof, as are necessary to secure adequate determinations. The installation of gages, the rating of said stream or streams, and the determination of the flow thereof, shall be under the supervision of, or in cooperation with, the District Engineer of the United States Geological Survey having charge of stream-gaging operations in the region of the project, and the Licensee shall advance to the United States Geological Survey the amount of funds estimated to be necessary for such supervision, or cooperation for such periods as may be mutually agreed upon. The Licensee shall keep accurate and sufficient records of the foregoing determinations to the satisfaction of the Commission, and shall make return of such records annually at such time and in such form as the Commission may prescribe.
Article 9. The Licensee shall, after notice and opportunity for hearing, install additional capacity or make other changes in the project as directed by the Commission, to the extent that it is economically sound and in the public interest to do so.
Article 10. The Licensee shall, after notice and opportunity for hearing, coordinate the operation of the project, electrically and hydraulically, with such other projects or power systems and in such manner as the Commission may direct in the interest of power and other beneficial public uses of water resources, and on such conditions concerning the equitable sharing of benefits by the Licensee as the Commission may order.
Article 11. Whenever the Licensee is directly benefited by the construction work of another licensee, a permittee, or the United States on a storage reservoir or other headwater improvement, the Licensee shall reimburse the owner of the headwater improvement for such part of the annual charges for interest, maintenance, and depreciation thereof as the Commission shall determine to be equitable, and shall pay to the United States the cost of making such determination as fixed by the Commission. For benefits provided by a storage reservoir or other headwater improvement of the United States, the Licensee shall pay to the Commission the amounts for which it is billed from time to time for such headwater benefits and for the cost of making the determinations pursuant to the then current regulations of the Commission under the Federal Power Act.
Article 12. The United States specifically retains and safeguards the right to use water in such amount, to be determined by the Secretary of the Army, as may be necessary for the purposes of navigation on the navigable waterway affected; and the operations of the Licensee, so far as they affect the use, storage and discharge from storage of waters affected by the license, shall at all times be controlled by such reasonable rules and regulations as the Secretary of the Army may prescribe in the interest of navigation, and as the Commission may prescribe for the protection of life, health, and property, and in the interest of the fullest practicable conservation and utilization of such waters for power purposes and for other beneficial public uses, including recreational purposes, and the Licensee shall release water from the project reservoir at such rate in cubic feet per second, or such volume in acre-feet per specified period of time, as the Secretary of the Army may prescribe in the interest of navigation, or as the Commission may prescribe for the other purposes hereinbefore mentioned.
Article 13. On the application of any person, association, corporation, Federal agency, State or municipality, the Licensee shall permit such reasonable use of its reservoir or other project properties, including works, lands and water rights, or parts thereof, as may be ordered by the Commission, after notice and opportunity for hearing, in the interests of comprehensive development of the waterway or waterways involved and the conservation and utilization of the water resources of the region for water supply or for the purposes of steam-electric, irrigation, industrial, municipal or similar uses. The Licensee shall receive reasonable compensation for use of its reservoir or other project properties or parts thereof for such purposes, to include at least full reimbursement for any damages or expenses which the joint use causes the Licensee to incur. Any such compensation shall be fixed by the Commission either by approval of an agreement between the Licensee and the party or parties benefiting or after notice and opportunity for hearing. Applications shall contain information in sufficient detail to afford a full understanding of the proposed use, including satisfactory evidence that the applicant possesses necessary water rights pursuant to applicable State law, or a showing of cause why such evidence cannot concurrently be submitted, and a statement as to the relationship of the proposed use to any State or municipal plans or orders which may have been adopted with respect to the use of such waters.
Article 14. In the construction or maintenance of the project works, the Licensee shall place and maintain suitable structures and devices to reduce to a reasonable degree the liability of contact between its transmission lines and telegraph, telephone and other signal wires or power transmission lines constructed prior to its transmission lines and not owned by the Licensee, and shall also place and maintain suitable structures and devices to reduce to a reasonable degree the liability of any structures or wires falling or obstructing traffic or endangering life. None of the provisions of this article are intended to relieve the Licensee from any responsibility or requirement which may be imposed by any other lawful authority for avoiding or eliminating inductive interference.
Article 15. The Licensee shall, for the conservation and development of fish and wildlife resources, construct, maintain, and operate, or arrange for the construction, maintenance, and operation of such reasonable facilities, and comply with such reasonable modifications of the project structures and operation, as may be ordered by the Commission upon its own motion or upon the recommendation of the Secretary of the Interior or the fish and wildlife agency or agencies of any State in which the project or a part thereof is located, after notice and opportunity for hearing.
Article 16. Whenever the United States shall desire, in connection with the project, to construct fish and wildlife facilities or to improve the existing fish and wildlife facilities at its own expense, the Licensee shall permit the United States or its designated agency to use, free of cost, such of the Licensee’s lands and interests in lands, reservoirs, waterways and project works as may be reasonably required to complete such facilities or such improvements thereof. In addition, after notice and opportunity for hearing, the Licensee shall modify the project operation as may be reasonably prescribed by the Commission in order to permit the maintenance and operation of the fish and wildlife facilities constructed or improved by the United States under the provisions of this article. This article shall not be interpreted to place any obligation on the United States to construct or improve fish and wildlife facilities or to relieve the Licensee of any obligation under this license.
Article 17. The Licensee shall construct, maintain, and operate, or shall arrange for the construction, maintenance, and operation of such reasonable recreational facilities, including modifications thereto, such as access roads, wharves, launching ramps, beaches, picnic and camping areas, sanitary facilities, and utilities, giving consideration to the needs of the physically handicapped, and shall comply with such reasonable modifications of the project, as may be prescribed hereafter by the Commission during the term of this license upon its own motion or upon the recommendation of the Secretary of the Interior or other interested Federal or State agencies, after notice and opportunity for hearing.
Article 18. So far as is consistent with proper operation of the project, the Licensee shall allow the public free access, to a reasonable extent, to project waters and adjacent project lands owned by the Licensee for the purpose of full public utilization of such lands and waters for navigation and for outdoor recreational purposes, including fishing and hunting: Provided, That the Licensee may reserve from public access such portions of the project waters, adjacent lands, and project facilities as may be necessary for the protection of life, health, and property.
Article 19. In the construction, maintenance, or operation of the project, the Licensee shall be responsible for, and shall take reasonable measures to prevent, soil erosion on lands adjacent to streams or other waters, stream sedimentation, and any form of water or air pollution. The Commission, upon request or upon its own motion, may order the Licensee to take such measures as the Commission finds to be necessary for these purposes, after notice and opportunity for hearing.
Article 20. The Licensee shall consult with the appropriate State and Federal agencies and, within one year of the date of issuance of this license, shall submit for Commission approval a plan for clearing the reservoir area. Further, the Licensee shall clear and keep clear to an adequate width lands along open conduits and shall dispose of all temporary structures, unused timber, brush, refuse, or other material unnecessary for the purposes of the project which results from the clearing of lands or from the maintenance or alteration of the project works. In addition, all trees along the periphery of project reservoirs which may die during operations of the project shall be removed. Upon approval of the clearing plan all clearing of the lands and disposal of the unnecessary material shall be done with due diligence and to the satisfaction of the authorized representative of the Commission and in accordance with appropriate Federal, State, and local statutes and regulations.
Article 21. Material may be dredged or excavated from, or placed as fill in, project lands and/or waters only in the prosecution of work specifically authorized under the license; in the maintenance of the project; or after obtaining Commission approval, as appropriate. Any such material shall be removed and/or deposited in such manner as to reasonably preserve the environmental values of the project and so as not to interfere with traffic on land or water. Dredging and filling in a navigable water of the United States shall also be done to the satisfaction of the District Engineer, Department of the Army, in charge of the locality.
Article 22. Whenever the United States shall desire to construct, complete, or improve navigation facilities in connection with the project, the Licensee shall convey to the United States, free of cost, such of its lands and rights-of-way and such rights of passage through its dams or other structures, and shall permit such control of its pools, as may be required to complete and maintain such navigation facilities.
Article 23. The operation of any navigation facilities which may be constructed as a part of, or in connection with, any dam or diversion structure constituting a part of the project works shall at all times be controlled by such reasonable rules and regulations in the interest of navigation, including control of the level of the pool caused by such dam or diversion structure, as may be made from time to time by the Secretary of the Army.
Article 24. The Licensee shall furnish power free of cost to the United States for the operation and maintenance of navigation facilities in the vicinity of the project at the voltage and frequency required by such facilities and at a point adjacent thereto, whether said facilities are constructed by the Licensee or by the United States.
Article 25. The Licensee shall construct, maintain, and operate at its own expense such lights and other signals for the protection of navigation as may be directed by the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating.
Article 26. If the Licensee shall cause or suffer essential project property to be removed or destroyed or to become unfit for use, without adequate replacement, or shall abandon or discontinue good faith operation of the project or refuse or neglect to comply with the terms of the license and the lawful orders of the Commission mailed to the record address of the Licensee or its agent, the Commission will deem it to be the intent of the Licensee to surrender the license. The Commission, after notice and opportunity for hearing, may require the Licensee to remove any or all structures, equipment and power lines within the project boundary and to take any such other action necessary to restore the project waters, lands, and facilities remaining within the project boundary to a condition satisfactory to the United States agency having jurisdiction over its lands or the Commission’s authorized representative, as appropriate, or to provide for the continued operation and maintenance of nonpower facilities and fulfill such other obligations under the license as the Commission may prescribe. In addition, the Commission in its discretion, after notice and opportunity for hearing, may also agree to the surrender of the license when the Commission, for the reasons recited herein, deems it to be the intent of the Licensee to surrender the license.
Article 27. The right of the Licensee and of its successors and assigns to use or occupy waters over which the United States has jurisdiction, or lands of the United States under the license, for the purpose of maintaining the project works or otherwise, shall absolutely cease at the end of the license period, unless the Licensee has obtained a new license pursuant to the then existing laws and regulations, or an annual license under the terms and conditions of this license.
Article 28. The terms and conditions expressly set forth in the license shall not be construed as impairing any terms and conditions of the Federal Power Act which are not expressly set forth herein.
List of FPC Standard Articles Forms Used in Permits and Licenses for Hydroelectric Projects
The following FPC standard articles Forms, in addition to the standard Forms L-3, and L-4 which are provided in this appendix, are available from the FPC offices:
| FPC Forms 1 | Title |
|---|---|
| P-1 | Terms and conditions of preliminary permit. |
| L-1 | Terms and conditions of license for constructed major project affecting lands of the United States. |
| L-2 | Terms and conditions of license for unconstructed major project affecting lands of the United States. |
| L-5 | Terms and conditions of license for constructed major projects affecting navigable waters and lands of the United States. |
| L-6 | Terms and conditions of license for unconstructed major project affecting navigable waters and lands of the United States. |
| L-9 | Terms and conditions of license for constructed minor projects affecting navigable waters of the United States. |
| L-10 | Terms and conditions of license for constructed major project affecting the interests of interstate or foreign commerce. |
| L-11 | Terms and conditions of license for unconstructed major project affecting the interests of interstate or foreign commerce. |
| L-14 | Terms and conditions of license for unconstructed minor project affecting navigable waters of the United States. |
| L-15 | Terms and conditions of license for unconstructed minor project affecting the interests of interstate or foreign commerce. |
| L-16 | Terms and conditions of license for constructed minor project affecting lands of the United States. |
| L-17 | Terms and conditions of license for unconstructed minor project affecting lands of the United States. |
| L-18 | Terms and conditions of license for constructed minor project affecting navigable waters and lands of the United States. |
| L-19 | Terms and conditions of license for unconstructed minor project affecting navigable waters and lands of the United States. |
1 Revised Oct. 1975.
PART 222 – ENGINEERING AND DESIGN
§ 222.2 Acquisition of lands downstream from spillways for hydrologic safety purposes.
(a) Purpose. This regulation provides guidance on the acquisition of lands downstream from spillways for the purpose of protecting the public from hazards imposed by spillway discharges. Guidance contained herein is in addition to ER 405-2-150.
(b) Applicability. This regulation is applicable to all OCE elements and all field operating agencies having civil works responsibilities.
(c) Reference. ER 405-2-150.
(d) Discussion. A policy of public safety awareness will be adhered to in all phases of design and operation of dam and lake projects to assure adequate security for the general public in areas downstream from spillways. A real estate interest will be required in those areas downstream of a spillway where spillway discharge could create or significantly increase a hazardous condition. The real estate interest will extend downstream to where the spillway discharge would not significantly increase hazards. A real estate interest is not required in areas where flood conditions would clearly be nonhazardous.
(e) Hydrologic criteria. The construction and operation of a dam and spillway may create or aggravate a potential hazard in the spillway discharge area. Therefore, an appropriate solution should be developed in a systematic manner. All pertinent facts need to be considered to assure that the risk to non-Federal interests does not exceed conditions that would prevail without the project. General hydrologic engineering considerations are as follows:
(1) Probability of spillway use. Pool elevation versus probability of filling relationships can change materially after initial construction. Spillway use may be more frequent than anticipated. The infrequent use of a spillway is not a basis for the lack of adequate downstream real estate interest.
(2) Changes in project functions. Water resource needs within river basins change and pool levels may be adjusted to provide more conservation storage, particularly when high-level limited-service spillways are provided. Such changes normally increase spillway use and are to be considered.
(3) Volume and velocity of spillway flow. The amount of flow and destructive force of the flow from a spillway during floods up to the spillway design flood can vary from insignificant to extremely hazardous magnitudes. The severity and area of hazard associated with spillway discharge will vary depending on specific project site conditions. Therefore, the hazard is to be analyzed on a project-by-project basis.
(4) Development within floodway. If development within the floodway downstream from a spillway is not present at the time of project construction, the existence of the reservoir may encourage development. Adverse terrain conditions do not preclude development. Sparse present development is not a basis for lack of real estate acquisition.
(5) Debris movement within floodway. The availability of erodible material in a spillway flow area intensifies the hazards of spillway flow. In fact, debris may be transported to downstream areas that otherwise would not be adversely affected. Extreme erosion may result from high velocities and turbulence. Both debris and erosion must be evaluated and considered.
(6) Flood warning and response potential. Small projects generally have short time periods available to warn downstream inhabitants and may be unattended prior to spillway use. The ability to convince individuals to leave most of their worldly possessions to the ravages of spillway flow may be severely limited. In some cases flood warning systems may be necessary; however, this subject is beyond the scope of this regulation. Warning systems are not an adequate substitute for a real estate interest in lands downstream of spillways.
(7) Location of spillway. Spillways should be located to minimize the hazards associated with their discharge and the total project cost (cost of spillway structure and downstream lands). Spillways, outlet works, stilling basins, and outlet channels should be designed to minimize hazards to downstream interest insofar as is engineeringly and economically reasonable.
(f) Real estate. The real estate interest required downstream of spillways will be adequate to assure carrying out project purposes and to protect non-Federal interest from hazards created by spillway flows. The interest may be either fee or permanent easement. A permanent easement must exclude all overnight and/or permanent habitation, structures subject to damage by spillway flows and activities that would increase the potential hazards. No real estate interest is required for:
(1) Areas where the imposed or aggravated flood condition is non-hazardous. Affected interest should be informed of the nature of the imposed non-hazardous flood condition.
(2) Areas where the construction and operation of a dam and spillway do not increase or create a hazardous condition.
(g) Alternative land uses. In some cases land downstream from spillways can be effectively used for purposes other than hydrologic safety. Therefore, the entire cost of these lands may not be an additional project cost. For example, the lands downstream of a spillway may be used for wildlife management essential to project purposes in lieu of other lands suitable for similar purposes at another location.
(h) Procedural guidance. Procedures regarding the application of the principles outlined in the above paragraphs are as follows:
(1) For various flood magnitudes up to the probable maximum flood determine the “with” and “without project” flood conditions downstream of a dam spillway for the following:
(i) Flooded area.
(ii) Flood depth.
(iii) Flood duration.
(iv) Velocities.
(v) Debris and erosion.
(2) Determine the combinations of flood magnitudes and the above flood conditions that could be the most hazardous and/or result in the greatest increase in hazard from “without” to “with project” flood conditions. Designate these combinations of flood magnitude and flood conditions as the critical conditions.
(3) For the critical conditions selected above outline the areas where the project could increase and/or create (impose) one or more of the critical conditions. Areas where spillway flows do not create or increase flood conditions are excluded from further analysis.
(4) Determine where the imposed critical conditions as outlined above would be hazardous and non-hazardous. Non-hazardous areas are defined as those areas where:
(i) Flood depths are maximum of 2 feet in urban and rural areas.
(ii) Flood depths are essentially non-damaging to urban property.
(iii) Flood durations are a maximum of 3 hours in urban areas and 24 hours in agricultural areas.
(iv) Velocities do not exceed 4 feet per second.
(v) Debris and erosion potentials are minimal.
(vi) Imposed flood conditions would be infrequent. That is, the exceedence frequency should be less than 1 percent. Hazardous areas are those where any of the above criteria are exceeded.
(5) Based upon the information developed above and the principles outlined in paragraphs (c) through (f) of this section, decide on the extent of area and estate required for hydrologic safety purposes.
(i) Reporting. Lands to be acquired downstream from spillways and intended purposes will be identified and the cost included in feasibility reports and real estate design memoranda. Additional specific information in support of land acquisition should be provided in Phase I or Phase II general design memoranda (GDM) and dam modernization reports. This information should include topographic maps, area flooded maps, velocities, erosion and debris areas “with” and “without” the project. Real estate boundaries and discussions of items in paragraph (h)(4) are also essential in the GDM’s and dam modernization reports.
§ 222.3 Clearances for power and communication lines over reservoirs.
(a) Purpose. This regulation prescribes the minimum vertical clearances to be provided when relocating existing or constructing new power and communication lines over waters of reservoir projects.
(b) Applicability. This regulation applies to all field operating agencies having Civil Works responsibilities.
(c) References. (1) ER 1180-1-1 (Section 73).
(2) National Electrical Safety Code (ANSI C2), available from IEEE Service Center, 445 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, N.J. 08854.
(d) Definitions – (1) Design high water level. The design high water level above which clearances are to be provided shall be eith