Washington – The St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp. published a final rule (.pdf file) approving a new system for waterway vessels that is designed to detect water obstructions more quickly.
The final rule applies to mariners using the St. Lawrence Seaway, which connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Great Lakes. The technology, known as the Draft Information System, provides mariners with real-time information on the distance between their vessel and river floors, and is intended to provide more time to change course to prevent collisions.
DIS, although optional, is recommended because the system has been proven to increase waterway vessel safety, according to a Department of Transportation press release.
The final rule went into effect July 11.
