Waterway groups gather for first LockFest!

Published May 9, 2017
The Pittsburgh District and its waterways partners are hosting the first ever water safety LockFest 2017. At the event, attendees will learn how to lock through navigation facilities and watch live locking demonstrations, discover water safety tips, talk to tow operators, brush up on boating regulations, and gain knowledge on how to navigate our rivers safely.

The Pittsburgh District and its waterways partners are hosting the first ever water safety LockFest 2017. At the event, attendees will learn how to lock through navigation facilities and watch live locking demonstrations, discover water safety tips, talk to tow operators, brush up on boating regulations, and gain knowledge on how to navigate our rivers safely.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Waterway groups gather for first LockFest! at Allegheny River Lock and Dam 4

WHO:      

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District and its waterways partners to include: U.S. Coast Guard, PA Fish & Boat Commission, Allegheny River Development Corporation, commercial tow operators and other waterways groups.

WHAT:    

The Pittsburgh District and its waterways partners are hosting the first ever water safety LockFest 2017. At the event, attendees will learn how to lock through navigation facilities and watch live locking demonstrations, discover water safety tips, talk to tow operators, brush up on boating regulations, and gain knowledge on how to navigate our rivers safely. Bobber, the Water Safety Dog will attend and exhibits from our partners will be available.

WHEN:     9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, May 13   

WHERE:    Allegheny River Lock and Dam 4 at Natrona, PA

MEDIA: Representatives will be available for morning and evening broadcast live shots, pre-event coverage, and during the event.

INSTRUCTIONS: This is a free event, open to the public. Tours will be given on a first-come, first-serve basis in groups of about 20. Please wear close-toed shoes. Some surfaces on the lock wall and in other areas are uneven or have grating. No sandals or heels. No weapons permitted. Please no large purses or backpacks.

DIRECTIONS: Search “1 River Road or Ave., Natrona Heights, PA, 15065”

From Pittsburgh: Take State Route 28 North to Exit 15. Make right turn onto Burtner Road. Go up the hill to stop sign and turn right onto Spring Hill Road. Go through next stop sign to the light (Old Rt. 28), go two lights. Keep straight down the hill to stop sign at the railroad tracks. Cross over the railroad tracks and around the sharp turn. Lock and dam is on the left. 

WEATHER: This is a rain or shine event, unless extreme weather is forecasted.

PARKING: The Army Corps is unable to provide parking. Please find parking in the area.  

WHY:       

For some, locking through the region’s 23 navigation facilities can be intimidating, and operating a boat on our rivers without proper knowledge and education can increase the risk of injury and damage. This event strives to provide information that allows people to enjoy our rivers safely and with the confidence that comes with being informed.

ADDITIONAL:

Pittsburgh District’s 26,000 square miles include portions of western Pennsylvania, northern West Virginia, eastern Ohio, western Maryland and southwestern New York. Our jurisdiction includes more than 328 miles of navigable waterways, 23 navigation locks and dams, 16 multi-purpose flood control reservoirs, 42 local flood protection projects and other projects to protect and enhance the Nation’s water resources, infrastructure and environment.

CONTACT: Public Affairs Office at 412-395-7500 or Email: CELRP-PA@usace.army.mil

 

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Contact
Jeff Hawk
412-395-7500/01/02
CELRP-PA@usace.army.mil
412-395-7503 (fax)
1000 Liberty Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Release no. 17-012