CCLME.ORG - 33 CFR PART 207—NAVIGATION REGULATIONS

(continued)

(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, ง117.235a 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.

[37 FR 9670, May 16, 1972, as amended at 42 FR 57961, Nov. 7, 1977; 56 FR 13765, Apr. 4, 1991]

ง 207.160 All waterways tributary to the Atlantic Ocean south of Chesapeake Bay and all waterways tributary to the Gulf of Mexico east and south of St. Marks, Fla.; use, administration, and navigation.
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(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 งง117.1, 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.

[Regs., Apr. 30, 1938, as amended at 8 FR 15381, Nov. 9, 1943; 25 FR 8908, Sept. 16, 1960; 26 FR 353, Jan. 18, 1961; 34 FR 4967, Mar. 7, 1969; 42 FR 57961, Nov. 7, 1977; 48 FR 6335, Feb. 11, 1983; 56 FR 13765, Apr. 4, 1991]

ง 207.169 Oklawaha River, navigation lock and dam at Moss Bluff, Fla.; use, administration, and navigation.
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(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.

[35 FR 10520, June 27, 1970, as amended at 38 FR 5468, Mar. 1, 1973]

ง 207.170 Federal Dam, Oklawaha River, Moss Bluff, Fla.; pool level.
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(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.

[Regs., Dec. 3, 1928]

ง 207.170a Eugene J. Burrell Navigation Lock in Haines Creek near Lisbon, Fla.; use, administration, and navigation.
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(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.

[24 FR 1461, Feb. 27, 1959]

ง 207.170b Apopka-Beauclair Navigation Lock in Apopka-Beauclair Canal in Lake County, Fla.; use, administration, and navigation.
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(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.

[24 FR 5151, June 24, 1959]

ง 207.170c Kissimmee River, navigation locks between Lake Tohopekaliga and Lake Okeechobee, Fla.; use, administration, and navigation.
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(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 5:30 a.m. to 7:30
Oct. 31. p.m.
Do............................. Nov. 1 through 5:30 a.m. to 6:30
Feb. 28. 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 5:30 a.m. to 7:30
Oct. 31. p.m.
Do............................. Nov. 1 through 5:30 a.m. to 6:30
Feb. 28. 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.

[29 FR 2384; Feb. 12, 1964, as amended at 31 FR 7566, May 26, 1966; 33 FR 7626, May 23, 1968]

ง 207.170d Taylor Creek, navigation lock (S–193) across the entrance to Taylor Creek at Lake Okeechobee, Okeechobee, Fla.; use, administration, and navigation.
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(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.

[Regs., July 17, 1973, 1522–01 (Taylor Creek, Fla.) DAEN-CWO-N]

(Sec. 7, 40 Stat. 266; 33 U.S.C. 1)

[38 FR 21404, Aug. 8, 1973]

ง 207.175a Carlson's Landing Dam navigation lock, Withlacoochee River, Fla.; use, administration, and navigation.
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(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.

[30 FR 6161, May 1, 1965]

ง 207.180 All waterways tributary to the Gulf of Mexico (except the Mississippi River, its tributaries, South and Southwest Passes and the Atchafalaya River) from St. Marks, Fla., to the Rio Grande; use, administration, and navigation.
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(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 moior continously 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.

[36 FR 8866, May 14, 1971, as amended at 37 FR 26419, Dec. 12, 1972; 42 FR 57961, Nov. 7, 1977; 48 FR 6707, Feb. 15, 1983; 54 FR 6519, Feb. 13, 1989; 56 FR 13765, Apr. 4, 1991]

ง 207.185 Taylors Bayou, Tex., Beaumont Navigation District Lock; use, administration, and navigation.
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(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 ง207.180.

(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.

[4 FR 1719, Apr. 29, 1939]

ง 207.187 Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Tex.; special floodgate, lock and navigation regulations.
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(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 ง207.180.

(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.

Note: The foregoing regulations are supplementary to the regulations in ง207.180.

[31 FR 15310, Dec. 7, 1966, as amended at 34 FR 15797, Oct. 14, 1969; 48 FR 6707, Feb. 15, 1983]

ง 207.200 Mississippi River below mouth of Ohio River, including South and Southwest Passes; use, administration, and navigation.
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(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] (continued)