The dredger “Wilko” will be conducting dredging operations at the Bear Creek Crossing of the AICW from today until 31 January, 2013.
The dredge and assisting vessels will monitor VHF-FM channels 13 and 16. A floating and submerged pipeline will traverse southeasterly from the dredge site to the Upland Disposal Area 94. Mariners are cautioned to stay clear of dredge, booster, floating (pontoon) and submerged pipelines, barges, derricks and operating wires associated with dredging and marine construction operations.
Operators of vessels of all types should be aware that dredges and floating pipelines are held in place by cables, attached to anchors some distance away from the equipment. Buoys are attached to the anchors so that the anchors may be moved as the dredge advances and the location of the submerged pipelines are marked by buoys on each side of the channel.
Mariners are cautioned to strictly comply with the Inland Rules of the Road when approaching, passing and leaving the area of operations, and remain a safe distance away from the dredge, booster, buoys, cables, pipeline, barges, derricks, wires and related equipment.
Owners and lessees of fishnets, crabpots and other structures that may be in the vicinity and that may hinder the free navigation of attending vessels and equipment must be remove these from the area where tugs, tenderboats and other attendant equipment will be navigating.
[mappress]
Press Release, January 16, 2013