Saturday, May 15, 2010

Big tows


When I wrote a few days ago about a 25-barge tow I saw in the Huntington, W.Va., area, a reader said to watch for more of them this summer. Well, they're already on the river.

I've seen them n vessel locations for a few days. This morning, I counted three tows of 18 barges or more above the Smithland Locks and Dam. The Craig E. Philip was in Greenup Pool pushing 25, the Harllee Branch Jr. was in Meldahl Pool pushing 25, and the Louise S. was in Markland Pool pushing 18.

It's easy to guess why companies are pushing more barges with one boat. What it means for other folks on the river, such as recreational boaters, I don't know.