MSU begins revetment season on Mississippi River

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Vicksburg District Mat Sinking Unit (MSU) kicked off revetment season on the Mississippi River earlier this week, following a delay to make critical repairs to the mooring barge.

“My sincerest gratitude goes out to the entire crew of our Mat Sinking Unit for their ability to be flexible and adjust,” said Col. Christopher Klein, USACE Vicksburg District commander.

Operations Chief Julie Vignes added that the revetment mission is crucial to ensure reliable, navigable waterways.

“Laying mat is vital to keeping the river on a consistent path,” Vignes said. “If we can’t complete our mission, erosion can change the shape of the river over time and make it more difficult for commercial vessels to transport their cargo. An enormous amount of trade relies on the Mississippi River.”

Revetment Section Chief John Mark Henderson noted that the recent revetment season delay was necessary to mitigate risk and help ensure crew safety.