On February 15, 2019, about 0130 local time, the towboat Bettye M. Jenkins was pushing two loaded barges upbound on the Lower Mississippi River, 1.4 miles south of Vidalia, Louisiana. While maneuvering across the river about 2 miles downriver of the Natchez Bridge, the lead barge, T9353, struck the Bunge grain facility pier and pilings. No pollution or injuries were reported. Damage to the facility was estimated at $3,336,718.

The​​ probable cause of the contact of the Bettye M. Jenkins tow with the Bunge grain facility was the captain’s decision to attempt to pass ahead of an upbound tow while crossing a river in strong current during high-water conditions.

​​High-River Current Operations

Extreme high current poses unique hazards for vessels working on and/or transiting inland rivers. Mariners should thoroughly assess the impact of high current on all aspects of operations, including securing barges, passage planning, and boat handling.​