Barge Companies Highlight Boating Safety On Mississippi

With the holiday weekend on the horizon, barge companies are reminding recreational boaters on the Mississippi River to prioritize safety.Boat traffic is expected to increase, and operators are urging boaters to maintain a safe distance from barges and towboats.Last year, high water and debris forced a temporary ban on pleasure boating during the July 4th holiday. This year, conditions have improved, and commercial barge traffic continues around the clock.Barges may appear to move slowly—typically between 5 and 10 miles per hour—but they’re heavy and hard to stop. A fully loaded barge can take over a mile to come to a complete halt.Towboat operators face limited visibility, especially during the busy summer season. Boaters are urged to stay alert, give barges plenty of room, and help keep the waterways safe for everyone.