The Coast Guard established the Inland Rivers Vessel
Center (IRVMC) in St. Louis, April 16, to gather information and track
certain barges along the river system 24-hours a day.
In a continuous effort to secure the homeland, the Coast Guard increased its
presence and maritime awareness. The Western River system tracks from the
new operational center the movement of barges containing certain dangerous
cargoes. Additionally, increased patrols, vessel escorts and/or boardings
by river marshals could be implemented based on the Department of Homeland
Security Advisory System
level and other factors. These increased security
measures are designed to ensure the safe transit of vessels carrying certain
cargoes, the safe movement of commerce through specific portions of the
river system and the safety of strategic infrastructure.
The regulations were signed April 16. Docket numbers CGD08-03-014 and
CGD09-03-209 can be found at