USACE urges boater safety at navigation locks

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Walla Walla District is reminding boaters to exercise caution near navigation locks following several recent incidents involving recreational boats operating near district locks.

Approaches to navigation locks are designated restricted areas due to strong currents, limited maneuverability of vessels utilizing the lock and the potential for serious, even fatal, boat-to-boat collisions. No vessels should loiter in locks, their approaches or near guide walls. These areas are limited to vessels locking through to ensure space for navigation traffic and safe lock operations.

“Safety is our top priority,” said Lt. Col. Katie Werback, commander of the Walla Walla District. “Boaters must understand the risks associated with operating near locks and adhere to all safety regulations. Ignoring these precautions can have serious, even fatal, consequences.”

Safety Reminders:

• Obey Lockmaster commands. Lockmasters are the presiding authority for navigation locks. Pay attention to instructions and signals.
• Do not enter a navigation lock or its approach without specific authorization from the lockmaster.
• Observe restricted areas.
• Do not loiter in lock approaches or near guide walls.
• Yield the right-of-way to vessels entering or exiting locks.
• Slow down when boating near a lock.
• Monitor VHF channel 14 for announcements and lock-related communications. Walla Walla District lock callsigns are:
  • McNary – WUJ 41
  • Ice Harbor – WUJ 42
  • Lower Monumental – WUJ 43
  • Little Goose – WUJ 44
  • Lower Granite – WUJ 45

Violators may face fines and criminal penalties from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Boaters are also reminded of general water safety practices:

• Ensure all passengers wear properly fitted life jackets.
• Plan ahead and check local conditions and regulations before your trip.
• Maintain a lookout for other vessels and hazards.
• Understand your boat’s handling characteristics, especially in strong currents.

For more information on boating safety and lock operating schedules, visit https://www.nww.usace.army.mil/Missions/Navigation/ or follow the Walla Walla District on Facebook and Instagram at WallaWallaUSACE.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Walla Walla District, operates and maintains navigation locks at Ice Harbor, Lower Monumental, Little Goose and Lower Granite dams on the lower Snake River, and McNary Dam on the Columbia River.