This is to advise mariners transiting the White River Entrance Channel (WREC) of increased head differentials between Norrell Lock and Dam and Montgomery Point Lock and Dam. At 2:00pm today, the tailwater elevation at Norrell Lock and Dam was 145.17 ft-msl and the headwater elevation at Montgomery Point Lock and Dam was 142.62 ft-msl with a differential of 2.55 feet. The WREC differential is forecasted to be near 3 feet by Wednesday, May 6th and could remain at or near this level for five days. Mariners are reminded of advised tow restrictions during increased differentials:
WREC Differential # Barges
2.9 feet or less no restriction
3.0 to 4.4 feet 12 barge down bound restriction
No restriction up bound
4.5 to 5.0 feet 9 barge down bound restriction
No up bound restriction
5.1 to 5.9 feet 4 barge down bound restriction during daylight
2 barge down bound restriction during night
No up bound restriction
Mariners transiting the WREC should use extreme caution in this area, especially when passing Montgomery Point Lock and Dam. Contact Montgomery Point Lock and Dam or Norrell Lock and Dam for current differential and elevations or visit our website at http://www.swl.usace.army.mil/Missions/WaterLevels.aspx
Questions or requests for additional information concerning this notice should be directed to James McKinnie in the Little Rock District Office, at (501) 324-5739 or (501) 324-5096, or you may email CESWL-OP-OM@us.army.mil.
//signed//
Kevin J. McDaniels
Chief, Operations Division
Release no. SWL 15-10