The Mississippi River remains at flood levels, continuing a high water streak that began in January this year. The current 50 foot river hampers business as usual at Terral RiverService as it results in tow size limitations, closed port sites and damaged river infrastructure. Terral RiverService is working hard to prepare for the accelerated demand once the river recedes to normal levels and will make every effort to accommodate each of our customer’s needs as soon as river conditions are manageable again. “We appreciate your patience,” says Tom Gattle, President of TRS. “I am not sure what is happening but something is changing with our weather patterns that control river levels.”

Since 1934 the Mississippi River gauge at Vicksburg has been at 50 foot six times, with 42 foot being flood stage. Three of the 50 foot river levels have come in the last nine years. Terral RiverService continues to adjust in order to meet the challenge of these unusual high water events.

The river has also delayed the release of Terral RiverService’s current boat under construction. Greenville’s NewSouth Marine’s shipyard is under water and has been unable to complete the waterside construction. The hope is that the river levels will decline in the next month allowing for a completion of the vessel by year end. The new vessel, named the MV John C, Terral, after the co-founder of Terral RiverService will be a 140’ X 38’ retractable wheelhouse boat powered by two CAT 3516 engines.

Terral RiverService monitors the river conditions closely and will continue to until the waters recede and business returns to normal.