Corps begins summer lockages on Snake River

Walla Walla District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began the 2013 seasonal lock schedule for recreational boats May 15 for Lower Monumental, Little Goose and Lower Granite dams.

Upstream times will be at 9 a.m., 12:01 p.m., 3 p.m., 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.

The downstream schedule for the same dams will be 30 minutes later at 9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

The Corps will consider special lockages for flotillas or other unique requirements sponsored by yacht clubs and other groups, provided arrangements are made at least 24 hours in advance with the appropriate operations manager.

When the schedule is in effect, recreational boats will only be allowed to lock through at designated lockages and will take precedence over commercial ships.

Commercial vessels will continue to be locked through upon arrival except during the times specified for recreational vessels. Recreational boats may be allowed to lock through with commercial craft at the discretion of the operator.

All boat owners lock through at their own risk. A personal flotation device, or life preserver, is required for all aboard each boat. The lock operator has final authority on the suitability of a craft for lockage. The schedule is in place until Sept. 15.

For more information, call the Operations Division, (509) 527-7115.