One public policy matter that is not as visible as environmental issues is the deteriorating condition of our inland waterways, which are maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps estimates that 33 percent of all main or auxiliary locks on the Ohio River will be in poor or failing condition in 2012. Lack of funding to make repairs will only exacerbate this situation.

In 2011, we experienced significant delays at the Markland Lock near Warsaw, Ky., as the Corps began an extensive repair project. Repairs have taken longer than normal and are extending into 2012. Because our crews must break up their tows into a smaller number of barges to pass through the lock, each passage takes several hours longer. Along with other delays, each passage up or down the Ohio River takes 24 to 36 hours longer in each direction. We estimate the delays at Markland alone cost us $5.5 million for a seven-month period ending in February 2012.

AEP continues to support a 20-year capital development plan proposed by the Inland Waterways Users Board and various trade associations. This plan would increase the fuel tax that commercial users of waterways would pay to help fund lock and infrastructure improvements. Unfortunately, the Washington political climate virtually precludes passage of any significant legislation in 2012 that would enable this program.

The M/V Mariner and a tow of 15 coal barges prepares to leave the Newburgh lock on the Ohio River near Newburgh, Ind., as the M/V Hoosier State and its barges get ready to enter. AEP supports legislation that would improve the nation’s inland waterways and navigation system.