ST. PAUL, Minn. – Even if shipping could otherwise still be open on the Upper Mississippi in December, the Army Corps plans to close locks around several dams early for maintenance projects that will take all winter. These are:
> Lock and Dam 2 (Hastings): Closed December 4 to March 15 for dewatering for concrete repairs.
> Lock and Dam 3 (Red Wing): Closed December 4 to March 15 for divers to inspect the riverbend foundations and to install new forms.
> Lock and Dam 4 (Alma): Closed December 4 to March 5 to update circular structures at the end of the guidewall and other repairs.
> Lock and Dam 7 (Dresbach): Closed December 4 to March 15 for guidewall maintenance fand or divers to inspect foundations and to install forms.
It’s possible that the locks will close earlier due to winter icing. Already Lock and Dam 1 in Minneapolis an Lock and Dam 2 in St. Paul have been closed for the season.