Document ID: USCG-2009-0139-0040
Agency: uscg
Document Type: Rule
Title: FR:  Regulated Navigation Areas: Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Inner Harbor Navigation Canal, New Orleans, LA (Federal Register Publication)
Posted Date: 2014-04-15T04:00Z

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 72 (Tuesday, April 15, 2014)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 21129-21137]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-08265]

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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Coast Guard

33 CFR Part 165

[Docket Number USCG-2009-0139]
RIN 1625-A11

Regulated Navigation Area; Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Inner 
Harbor Navigation Canal, New Orleans, LA

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This final rule revises an existing interim rule to 
permanently establish a Regulated Navigation Area (RNA) protecting 
floodwalls and levees in the New Orleans area from possible damage 
caused by vessels that can breakaway during certain tropical storm and 
hurricane conditions. This final rule also addresses comments from the 
public on the previously published Supplemental Notice of Proposed 
Rulemaking (SNPRM) and economic review for this RNA. This action is 
necessary for the flood protection of high-risk areas throughout the 
Greater New Orleans Area when a tropical event threatens to approach 
and impact the area.

DATES: This rule is effective April 15, 2014. This rule has been 
enforced with actual notice since April 1, 2014.

ADDRESSES: Documents mentioned in this preamble are part of docket 
[USCG-2009-0139]. To view documents mentioned in this preamble as being 
available in the docket, go to http://www.regulations.gov, type the 
docket number in the ``SEARCH'' box and click ``SEARCH.'' Click on Open 
Docket Folder on the line associated with this rulemaking. You may also 
visit the Docket Management Facility in Room W12-140 on the ground 
floor of the Department of Transportation West Building, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this rule, 
call or email LCDR Brandon Sullivan, Sector New Orleans Waterways 
Division, U.S. Coast Guard; telephone (504) 365-2281, email 
Brandon.J.Sullivan@uscg.mil. If you have questions on viewing or 
submitting material to the docket, call Cheryl F. Collins Program 
Manager, Docket Operations, telephone (202) 366-9826.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Table of Acronyms

DHS Department of Homeland Security
FR Federal Register
NPRM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
SNPRM Supplemental Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
CPRA Coastal Protection Restoration Authority
HSDRRS Hurricane Storm Damage Risk Reduction System
USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers
COTP Captain of the Port
IHNC Inner Harbor Navigation Canal
GIWW Gulf Intracoastal Waterway
MM Mile Marker
RNA Regulated Navigational Area

A. Regulatory History and Information

    The Coast Guard is issuing this final rule without a full 30-day 
notice pursuant to authority under section 4(a) of the Administrative 
Procedures Act (APA) (5 U.S.C. 553). Under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3), the 
Coast Guard finds that good cause exists for making this rule effective 
less than 30 days after publication in the Federal Register. This final 
rule makes permanent the RNA specific to safety measures during 
hurricane season which is June 1 through November 30 each year. The 
existing interim rule for this RNA has been effective for approximately 
four years and requires necessary changes, based on the completed flood 
protection system, through this final rule for the approaching 2014 
hurricane season. This final rule also allows for possible planned 
deviation from the RNA through a Hurricane Operations Plan submitted at 
least one month before the season begins, which is May 1, 2014 for this 
year. Throughout the rulemaking process for this RNA, those regulated 
by the rule, specifically industry and waterway users, have 
participated in this rulemaking through public meetings and the public 
comment process and are fully aware that this RNA will be in place for 
the 2014 hurricane season. It is unnecessary to further delay the 
updated RNA by waiting for a full 30 days notice to take place through 
publication in the Federal Register.
    On June 8, 2010, the Coast Guard published an interim rule entitled 
``Regulated Navigation Area; Gulf

[[Page 21130]]

Intracoastal Waterway, Inner Harbor Navigation Canal, New Orleans, LA'' 
in the FR (75 FR 32275) and provided responses to all comments to the 
original Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), which published May 14, 
2009 in the Federal Register (74 FR 22722). That interim rule is 
codified and the RNA is currently enforced under 33 CFR 165.838. The 
intent behind establishing the RNA through an interim rulemaking was to 
put into place interim restrictions providing the necessary protections 
at the time and until the final floodwalls and storm protection system 
were completed and final specifications established and received. The 
interim rule stated that the Coast Guard would reevaluate the RNA upon 
completion of the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) 
Hurricane and Storm Damage Risk Reduction System (HSDRRS). With the 
HSDRRS being fully operational for the 2013 hurricane season, the Coast 
Guard, with input from Federal, State and local agencies determined 
that the RNA is still necessary.
    On June 7, 2013, the Coast Guard published a SNPRM entitled 
``Regulated Navigation Area; Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Inner Harbor 
Navigation Canal, Harvey Canal, Algiers Canal, New Orleans, LA'' in the 
Federal Register (78 FR 34293). In the SNPRM, the Coast Guard proposed 
changes to the requirements of the RNA from those in the interim rule. 
In developing these requirements, the Coast Guard established a work 
group comprised of Federal, State and local flood protection 
authorities, and port and industry representatives. Through this work 
group, public meetings were held and input from the meetings helped to 
address the protections still necessary and modify the restrictions in 
the interim rule to provide those protections. The minutes from those 
meetings are available for public viewing on the docket. In addition to 
the work-group meetings, the Coast Guard considered lessons learned 
from implementing the RNA provisions of the interim rule during 
Hurricane Isaac in 2012. Also, while drafting the SNPRM, the Coast 
Guard met formally with the USACE six times to (1) determine the risks 
presented by vessels to the HSDRRS, (2) understand the conditions under 
which such risks occur, and (3) to ensure that a final RNA aligns with 
USACE operations and concerns.
    The Coast Guard also held a public meeting on June 20, 2013 at 5 
p.m. local time, to receive comments on the SNPRM. Comments received at 
the public meeting were supportive of the overall collaborative 
planning process, and did not contain any specific content requiring a 
Coast Guard response in this Final Rule. A transcript of that public 
meeting was uploaded to the public docket. During the SNPRM comment 
period, the Coast Guard also received 18 written comments from seven 
entities on the proposed changes within the public docket, which are 
addressed in this final rule below. These comments did not result in 
any substantial changes to the requirements of the RNA in this final 
rule.
    In January 2013, the Coast Guard also requested information on a 
voluntary basis from 10 local industry and waterway users operating 
within the RNA. This information was requested in the form a 
questionnaire available in the public docket accessed as directed under 
ADDRESSES. The Coast Guard worked with an assigned Coast Guard 
economist to develop the questionnaire, which was used to gather 
information on the possible economic impacts--both cost and benefit--
that the proposed changes may impose. These questions included but were 
not limited to assessing the economic impact of requiring mooring 
arrangements similar to those required under 33 CFR 165.803; developing 
and submitting mooring arrangements as an alternate to those listed 
under 33 CFR 165.803; evacuating all vessels out of the RNA during 
enforcement periods; requiring weekly inspections, continuous 
surveillance, and certain equipment if a facility wishes to keep 
vessels within the RNA during enforcement; and requiring an annual 
Hurricane Operations Plan from facilities desiring to keep vessels 
within certain areas of the RNA as a preplanned deviation from the RNA 
restriction. The existing RNA, the proposed changes to the RNA in the 
SNPRM, and this final rule restrict all vessels from entering or 
remaining in any part of the designated RNA during enforcement. The 
existing RNA, the RNA as proposed in the SNPRM and this final rule also 
provide an avenue for vessels and facilities to pre-plan a deviation 
from RNA enforcement. Comments received at public meetings and during 
comment periods throughout the rulemaking process for this RNA support 
the opportunity to deviate if a facility and/or vessel show that they 
can do so safely and securely. The current RNA affords vessels and 
facilities the opportunity to deviate from the restriction through 
applying for an annual waiver and the option to deviate is provided for 
in this final rule through submitting an Annual Hurricane Operations 
Plan. This plan replaces the current waiver requirement.

B. Basis and Purpose

    The legal basis for this rule is the Coast Guard's authority to 
establish regulated navigation areas and other limited access areas: 33 
U.S.C. 1231; 46 U.S.C. Chapter 701, 3306, 3703; 50 U.S.C. 191, 195; 33 
CFR 1.05-1, 6.04-1, 6.04-6, 160.5; Pub. L. 107-295, 116 Stat. 2064; 
Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.
    The purpose of this final rule is to permanently establish the RNA 
to protect floodwalls and levees in the New Orleans area from possible 
storm damage caused by moored barges and vessels, and to prevent 
flooding in the New Orleans area that could result from that storm 
damage.
    This final rule permanently establishes the RNA now that the flood 
protection system is complete. This final rule responds to the risks at 
hand using knowledge and expertise and addressing the needs uncovered 
throughout this rulemaking process including the NPRM, the interim 
rule, the SNPRM, and input and participation from federal, state, and 
local agencies as well as public and industry stakeholders. Without 
this RNA, when navigational structures within the HSDRRS are to be 
closed because of an approaching storm, the Coast Guard would have to 
individually order each vessel within the subject area to depart or to 
comply with specific mooring arrangements. Issuing individual orders 
places a significant administrative burden on the Coast Guard during a 
time when important pre-storm preparations must also be made. By 
creating this rule, the Coast Guard is informing the public in advance 
of the restrictions and requirements for vessels in the area during 
periods of enforcement, enabling vessel and facility operators to make 
seasonal plans and arrangements for RNA evacuation and thus eliminating 
the need for individual Captain of the Port (COTP) Orders.
    An additional purpose of this RNA is to aid the Coast Guard in the 
early identification of vessels that may not depart the RNA when 
required. Under PWSA, the Coast Guard has no authority to take 
possession of, and move these vessels during emergency periods such as 
the approach of a hurricane. Rather, Coast Guard enforcement is limited 
to imposing civil or criminal penalties on anyone who fails to comply 
with the requirements of an order or regulation issued under PWSA. 
Therefore early identification of vessels that may be unwilling to 
depart the area, or are unable to remain safely moored within the area 
during a storm, is extremely

[[Page 21131]]

important and will provide the Coast Guard time to consider 
alternatives and work with interagency authorities and vessel and 
facility representatives to appropriately resolve the problem well in 
advance of a storm.

C. Discussion of Comments, Changes and the Final Rule

    Seven individuals or companies submitted a total of 18 comments to 
the SNPRM. The Coast Guard's response to these comments are discussed 
in detail below, however, the Coast Guard has not made any substantial 
changes from the requirements proposed in the SNPRM as a result of 
these comments.
    One comment expressed concern that proposed mooring criteria are 
more stringent than the criteria in the interim rule, which would 
require additional professional engineering certification resulting in 
additional costs for compliance for this particular entity. The interim 
rule published in 2010 stated that the Coast Guard would reevaluate the 
need for the Regulated Navigation Area and make changes and proposals 
in a final rule as appropriate. In developing the mooring criteria 
proposed in the SNPRM and implemented by this final rule, the Coast 
Guard worked with the USACE to determine acceptable standards and 
parameters that reduce risk within the canal basins. In February 2013, 
the USACE provided engineering analysis based on the design and 
construction of the newly completed HSDRRS which determined that 
mooring criteria needed to meet more stringent requirements for 
potential surge height, wind speeds, etc. In February 2013, the USACE 
provided correspondence to the Coast Guard recommending that we 
incorporate aspects of the standard mooring criteria found in United 
Facilities Criteria (UFC) 4-159 and the American Society of the Civil 
Engineers (ASCE) 7 that could be utilized by professional engineers in 
designing and approving the mooring standards. Therefore, the Coast 
Guard proposed a standard consistent with the maximum potential water 
levels USACE has determined could occur with sustained heavy rainfall 
over a 24 hour timeframe within the HSDRRS system. In this 
correspondence, the USACE recommended that the Coast Guard utilize 
design wind loads based on ASCE 7. The two design values mentioned are 
88 mph and 140 mph. To decrease risk of a vessel breaking away from its 
mooring, the Coast Guard incorporated the more stringent 140 mph wind 
requirement, which represents a three-second maximum gust velocity in 
the New Orleans area as outlined by the USACE. We understand that since 
2009 facilities who wished to keep vessels in the RNA during storms had 
to submit multiple engineering analyses which resulted in financial 
expenditures for each entity. Final determination on criteria required 
was simply not available at the time the interim rule was established. 
This final rule and the criteria included were developed over four 
years of partnerships between all entities involved to lessen the 
burden of multiple engineering analyses.
    One comment requested that the Coast Guard differentiate 
restrictions and requirements based upon vessel tonnage, measured or 
dead weight or construction. The Coast Guard does not possess data, and 
is not aware of a data source, clearly delineating risk in relation to 
size of vessels. The USACE determined that without an analysis 
determining the resiliency of the I-walls, no vessels, tanks, yachts, 
boats, campers, buildings or other structures should be allowed to 
impact the floodwalls. Without this clear delineation, the Coast Guard 
will require all floating vessels intending to remain in the RNA during 
a storm event to submit Annual Hurricane Operation Plans and meet the 
requirements outlined within this final rule to reduce risk within the 
canal basins. The Coast Guard is very aware of the risk in this area 
and has closely coordinated with multiple agencies regarding that risk. 
In the absence of further analysis or other non-Coast Guard actions to 
mitigate risks such as reinforcing floodwalls and levees or installing 
barriers protecting them, the Coast Guard is compelled to take a 
conservative approach. Furthermore, as outlined in correspondence to 
the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority East dated August 
20th, 2012, the USACE plans to analyze the resiliency of the I-walls 
subject to impact loads from small vessels, small floating objects, 
characteristics of boat impacts, limiting velocities and boat weight to 
further classify which vessels actually constitute a risk. Should this 
occur, the Coast Guard may review or update this regulation to 
potentially exempt certain classes of vessels from these regulatory 
requirements. In the absence of such policy, direction or analysis, the 
Coast Guard has decided to make this regulation applicable to all 
vessels in the RNA, regardless of size, to provide the maximum 
protection possible to the flood protection structures in the area.
    One comment requested the Coast Guard reevaluate the surge height 
requirement for engineering certification to the lowest height of the 
levee walls within the canal basins as well as consider wind directions 
that could affect water rise. The Coast Guard has done this for surge 
heights; the height in the SNPRM reflects the lowest height of a levee 
or floodwall in each canal basin. Based on USACE analysis these heights 
may be reached by maximum potential rainfall amounts that could occur 
within a 24-hour period. The Coast Guard did not factor potential wind 
directions for surge height requirements because decisions to enforce 
and implement the provisions found in this final rule would need to 
occur much sooner than actual known wind directions which are subject 
to changing forecasts, intensities or error in track models.
    One comment described a financial hardship for small craft moorings 
to meet mooring requirements for winds of 140 mph and requests vessels 
be allowed to utilize temporary lines in meeting the 140 mph 
requirements. This final rule implements the transition from a waiver-
based system to a performance-based system proposed in the SNPRM. It 
also allows the facility owners to work with professional engineers on 
a plan that meets the performance requirements, either with permanent 
fixed mooring systems, mooring lines or a combination of both.
    One comment requested the Coast Guard allow the standby tugboat 
requirement for individual facilities to be satisfied by sharing tug(s) 
across facilities within established geographic limits. The ability for 
facilities to allow vessels to stay during RNA enforcement under this 
final rule is grounded in the requirement that each facility owner be 
responsible for all vessels contained within their annual hurricane 
operations plan. The Coast Guard will be reviewing these annual 
hurricane operations plans and ensuring that each individual entity 
meets the requirements in this final rule to reduce risk of a breakaway 
at a facility. Expanding a tug's standby area across multiple 
businesses and a wider geographic area increases the risk of a vessel 
breakaway. In the event of multiple breakaways at different facilities, 
the likelihood that a breakaway would not be responded to given 
challenges in prioritizing a tug's response across businesses is 
certainly increased. The Coast Guard intends for each facility owner to 
be prepared with the required on-scene tugs should a scenario occur 
where multiple facilities need their tug assistance and where a sharing 
of resources may not be practicable. Once again the Coast Guard is only 
specifying these requirements for facilities with floating vessels 
choosing to deviate from the RNA and intending to remain within the RNA 
geographic

[[Page 21132]]

area during a tropical event. Should the facility not want to incur the 
additional cost, they may remove the vessel.
    One comment requested the Coast Guard include in the regulation 
that the Port Coordination Team would be consulted prior to mandatory 
evacuations in the event a particularly dangerous storm is predicted. 
The Coast Guard agrees and has included this in the regulation at 33 
CFR 165.838 (c) (4).
    One comment expressed concerns that mooring arrangement design 
criteria were significantly increased from the SNPRM, are too 
stringent, and may not reflect realistic storm conditions which may 
occur within the canal basins. The commenter requested further 
discussion on the reasoning for these new requirements. In drafting 
this Final Rule, the Coast Guard worked with the USACE and maritime 
stakeholders to determine acceptable standards and parameters that 
reduced risk within the canal basins. The criteria in this rule was 
provided by the USACE based on engineering of the completed HSDRRS and 
their analysis of conditions (surge heights and wind speeds) that could 
occur within the canals in the RNA during a storm, even with navigation 
structures closed as outlined in correspondence to the Coast Guard from 
the USACE on February 7th, 2013. The USACE proposed that the standards 
found in UFC 4-159 and ASCE 7 were sufficient to meet the criteria. The 
Coast Guard relied upon the engineering expertise of the USACE to 
reduce risk during dangerous storms. Absent new information disputing 
these recommendations the Coast Guard feels it necessary to move 
forward with these requirements. However, the Coast Guard will accept 
new information that may be beneficial for future updates for this RNA.
    One comment requested this final rule expand the RNA to include: 
(a) the ``Golden Triangle-area'' on the protected side (West) of the 
Lake Borgne Barrier, bound by the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW), 
Mississippi River Gulf Outlet (MRGO) and the IHNC Lake Borgne Surge 
Barrier; (b) a half mile buffer on the East Side of the IHNC Lake 
Borgne Surge Barrier parallel to the entire structure; (c) the area 
along the de-authorized MRGO channel adjacent to the St. Bernard 
Floodwalls extending a half mile past the southernmost portion of the 
wall; and (d) the Hero Canal outside of the HSDRRS. The Coast Guard 
does not intend to extend the RNA geographic parameters outside of what 
was proposed in the supplemental rule at this time.
    The ``Golden Triangle'', MRGO, and half mile area around the IHNC 
Lake Borgne Surge Barrier are not areas where vessels typically operate 
or moor in inclement weather. Should the USACE identify vessels that 
pose a significant risk during a tropical event in this area, the Coast 
Guard will issue individual COTP orders directing them to relocate 
outside these areas adjacent to the RNA. In regards to Hero Canal, 
which is outside of the West Closure Complex and adjacent to an earthen 
levee system, the Coast Guard does not intend to include this in the 
RNA without further analysis provided by levee design and construction 
entities demonstrating a potential risk from vessels in the canal. Hero 
Canal is not a waterway with commercial facilities and moorings in 
areas subject to storm surge during hurricanes. Hero Canal has 
traditionally been an area where smaller fishing vessels sought safe 
refuge during dangerous storms before the HSDRRS was completed. During 
Hurricane Isaac, fishing vessels sought safe refuge within the HSDRRS. 
Lessons learned from those seeking safe refuge during Hurricane Isaac 
resulted in the Coast Guard, USACE, Southeast Louisiana Flood 
Protection Authority West, other state and local agencies and the 
fishing community discussing allowing these vessels to stage within 
this canal for tropical events instead of within the RNA in the 
protected side of the West Closure Complex. Of note, expanding RNA 
Geographic areas from what was proposed within the SNPRM would require 
additional public comment. The Coast Guard feels it necessary to 
publish this final rule without further change or comment, providing 
those affected sufficient time to comply with RNA requirements before 
the 2014 Hurricane Season. However, the Coast Guard will entertain 
future proposed changes to this final rule should further analysis be 
provided to support a future update rule.
    One comment requested the Coast Guard clearly define particularly 
dangerous storm and consider complete evacuation of all vessels. This 
Final Rule already contains wording that allows the COTP the 
flexibility to require all vessels to vacate the RNA should a 
particularly dangerous storm be predicted to impact the RNA area. The 
Coast Guard believes that flexibility is necessary in determining what 
storm forecasts may warrant a complete RNA evacuation. Storm track and 
strength forecasts are uncertain and scenarios which impact the RNA are 
wide ranging, making specific scenario description impractical in 
regulation. However, as previously mentioned, the Coast Guard accepts 
that this decision should be made in consultation with the Port 
Coordination Team and has included this in the regulation.
    One comment requested that the Coast Guard require all vessels with 
Hurricane Operation Plans be required to maintain a constant state of 
compliance with this rulemaking throughout the calendar year. The Coast 
Guard will ensure that all facilities allowing vessels to remain in the 
RNA during a tropical event submit an Annual Hurricane Operations Plan 
but will not enforce the implementation of that plan until necessary 
for a particular weather event. The Coast Guard and USACE will be 
conducing monthly patrols during hurricane season to ensure those with 
Hurricane Operation Plans are prepared and able to implement those 
plans for pending tropical events. It is during these monthly patrols 
that verification checks will be made to ensure facilities are 
compliant with their certified plan. Requiring facilities to moor 
vessels in accordance with mooring plans for inclement weather simply 
isn't justified until the COTP announces the enforcement of the RNA. 
Other facility owners who intend to vacate the RNA upon activation are 
not required to comply with the RNA mooring requirements. If a facility 
with a valid Hurricane Operations Plan is not compliant with their 
certified plan, the vessels moored there will be required to vacate the 
RNA also.
    One comment requested the Coast Guard consider removing all vessels 
from the IHNC corridor and revise the current language which states the 
``Coast Guard is not inclined to allow any floating vessels to remain 
within the IHNC portion of the Canal Basin''. The Coast Guard considers 
that the current wording is adequate to address the risk in that area. 
The Coast Guard has no intentions to support any additional annual 
Hurricane Operation Plan submissions for floating vessels within higher 
risk IHNC areas. Performance based criteria will not apply to the IHNC 
area, and any vessels who expect to remain will need to apply for a 
deviation and demonstrate that mooring arrangements provide an 
equivalent level of safety. As was previously mentioned, the USACE has 
stated an analysis would be produced to determine the resiliency of the 
I-walls subject to impact loads from small vessels, small floating 
objects, characteristics of boat impacts, limiting velocities and boat 
weight to further classify which vessels actually constitute a risk. 
Once that analysis is produced and clearly identified, the Coast Guard 
would be willing to review

[[Page 21133]]

or update this Final Rule, which may allow certain classes of vessels 
to remain within the IHNC. In the absence of such policy, direction or 
analysis, the Coast Guard intends to maintain current posture and 
wording as outlined within this Final Rule.
    One comment notified the Coast Guard that revised mooring criteria 
were being developed which may slightly differ from what the Coast 
Guard was proposing. The commenter requested that these newly revised 
criteria be included in this final rule. After a two year process of 
crafting this rule with multiple Federal, State and local entities, the 
Coast Guard is moving forward with publishing this final rule with 
current information. The Coast Guard however is open to future 
recommendations on mooring guidance and, if appropriate, would 
reexamine these standards in a future rulemaking. The Coast Guard is 
publishing this rule to enable vessels, facility owners and operators 
sufficient time to comply with requirements in time for the 2014 
Hurricane Season.
    One comment requested that mooring criteria identified within this 
final rule be considered a minimum requirement and further stated that 
additional mooring criteria utilizing UFC 4-159 would be provided to 
the Coast Guard for inclusion in this rule. The commenter suggested 
apparatus design plans that accompany a waiver application should be 
reviewed by the USACE and approved or denied by the USCG. The Coast 
Guard has stated in this final rule that the intent of this rulemaking 
is transitioning from a waiver approval process to a performance based 
system. The Coast Guard agrees with the commenter and will partner with 
the USACE in the annual review and submission of all Hurricane 
Operational Plans. The Coast Guard agrees that requirements described 
in this rulemaking are minimum requirements that should be attained by 
all vessel and facility operators, and that mooring designs need to be 
certified by a professional engineer. As previously stated, after a two 
year process of crafting this rule with multiple Federal, State and 
local entities, the Coast Guard is moving forward with publishing this 
final rule with current information to ensure vessels, facility owners, 
and operators have sufficient time to comply with requirements for the 
2014 Hurricane Season.
    One comment stated that the actual size and type of lashing shall 
be designed by the owner's professional engineer and shall be included 
in the required annual hurricane operations plan and be consistent with 
UFC 4-159. The Coast Guard believes this comment is already addressed 
within this regulation and specifically within the requirements for a 
professional engineer to certify minimum attainment of the mooring 
design criteria.
    Two related comments requested clarification on the regulatory text 
relating to allowable actions within the RNA during the enforcement 
period and how that relates to the closing of the navigational 
structures. For further clarification, the Coast Guard intends to begin 
enforcement of the RNA 24 hours in advance of the anticipated closure 
of either the IHNC Lake Borgne Surge Barrier or the West Closure 
Complex. When the Coast Guard announces that the RNA will be 
implemented, all vessels not having an approved plan to remain in the 
RNA need to begin vacating the RNA, and need to be out of the RNA area 
prior to the closure of the structures or locks. All vessels that are 
transiting through the RNA will be allowed to transit providing there 
is sufficient time to either vacate or reach their intended and 
approved location. Progress and status of RNA evacuation will be 
monitored by Port Assessment Teams comprising representatives of the 
USCG, USACE and the levee protection authorities.
    Finally, one comment asked whether the Coast Guard had sufficient 
resources to perform compliance inspections needed to ensure all 
vessels remaining in the RNA are properly moored to an approved mooring 
facility. Yes, the Coast Guard has sufficient resources, utilizing Port 
Assessment Teams that patrol the RNA area during hurricane season to 
maintain maritime domain awareness in the canals, counting vessels, and 
analyzing how long it would take for vessels to vacate the RNA area 
should a tropical event occur. Additionally, during a possible tropical 
event, the Coast Guard, USACE and levee protection authorities patrol 
daily to ensure facilities that have submitted annual hurricane 
operation plans are complying with those plans and address any concerns 
identified during those patrols. The success of these patrols and the 
joint effort between our port partners to enact the RNA was 
demonstrated during Hurricane Isaac and Tropical Storm Karen where the 
RNA was successfully implemented with current resource levels.

D. Regulatory Analyses

    We developed this rule after considering numerous statutes and 
executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our analyses 
based on these statutes and executive orders.
1. Regulatory Planning and Review
    This rule is not a significant regulatory action under section 3(f) 
of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory Planning and Review, as 
supplemented by Executive Order 13563, Improving Regulation and 
Regulatory Review, and does not require an assessment of potential 
costs and benefits under section 6(a)(3) of Executive Order 12866 or 
under section 1 of Executive Order 13563. The Office of Management and 
Budget has not reviewed it under those Orders.
    In determining if this rule was a significant regulatory action, 
the Coast Guard considered alternatives so as not to unduly impact the 
segment of the economy impacted by the RNA. Furthermore, the Coast 
Guard also incorporated mooring requirements in regulation that negates 
the need for annual waivers greatly reducing associated costs. The 
Coast Guard incorporated into the regulatory requirements a provision 
that enables plans to be submitted with alternative minimum mooring 
requirements which will be reviewed by the COTP on a case-by-case 
basis. This provision enables the Coast Guard to review and allow 
mooring alternatives such as piling systems that permanently moor a 
vessel not intending to move from its berth that present an equal or 
greater level of safety under the regulation in an effort to mitigate 
possible regulatory and economic impacts. The Coast Guard also provided 
a series of questions for industry comment with the sole purpose of 
determining regulatory and economic impact. The questions were provided 
to those entities that had submitted waivers to remain in the RNA under 
the Interim Rule, along with the responses received, are available for 
public viewing in the docket.
    Based on responses to the questions, the Coast Guard modified the 
proposed tug boat requirements for on-scene monitoring of vessels 
during RNA enforcement. The Coast Guard originally contemplated 
requiring each facility with three or more vessels to have one tug on-
scene for every 25 vessels. As a result of the Coast Guard's outreach 
to industry with these questions and subsequent responses indicating an 
unnecessary economic hardship, the Coast Guard modified this 
requirement. The SNPRM proposed every facility with eight or more 
vessels to maintain one tug for every 50 vessels which significantly 
reduces the economic impact on industry but still provides a 
substantial measure of safety in the

[[Page 21134]]

event that tugs are required in an emergency.
2. Impact on Small Entities
    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (RFA), 5 U.S.C. 601-612, as 
amended, requires federal agencies to consider the potential impact of 
regulations on small entities during rulemaking. The term ``small 
entities'' comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations 
that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their 
fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 
50,000. The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this rule 
will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of 
small entities. This rule would affect the following entities, some of 
which might be small entities: The owners or operators of vessels 
intending to transit or moor in the RNA during enforcement, and the 
owners or operators or facilities in the RNA who intend to keep vessels 
at their facility during enforcement of the RNA. On a case by case 
basis, the Coast Guard will continue to review alternatives to the 
minimum mooring requirements for those that have an equal or greater 
measure of safety. This provision supports the Coast Guard's ongoing 
effort to keep this rulemaking from having a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities. Also, this regulation 
seeks to reduce impact on small entities by transitioning to a 
performance based system allowing vessels to remain if they meet the 
mooring requirements in the regulation. In addition, several routes for 
vessel traffic exist for departure from the area before the RNA goes 
into effect.
3. Assistance for Small Entities
    Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement 
Fairness Act of 1996 (Public Law 104-121), we want to assist small 
entities in understanding this rule. If the rule would affect your 
small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you have 
questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, please 
contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT, 
above.
    Small businesses may send comments on the actions of Federal 
employees who enforce, or otherwise determine compliance with, Federal 
regulations to the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory 
Enforcement Ombudsman and the Regional Small Business Regulatory 
Fairness Boards. The Ombudsman evaluates these actions annually and 
rates each agency's responsiveness to small business. If you wish to 
comment on actions by employees of the Coast Guard, call 1-888-REG-FAIR 
(1-888-734-3247). The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small 
entities that question or complain about this rule or any policy or 
action of the Coast Guard.
4. Collection of Information
    This rule may be found to call for a new collection of information 
under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520.). The 
Coast Guard solicited voluntary information concerning this rulemaking 
from 10 of the 10-14 maritime industry entities that have applied for 
waivers to deviate from this RNA during the past four years. This 
solicitation did not meet the guidelines of a new collection of 
information. The information solicited from the maritime industry and 
waterway users was specific to the impacts of the RNA. Questions 
included but were not limited to, addressing the economic costs and 
benefits of providing an option for vessels and facilities to deviate 
from the RNA restriction by providing Hurricane Operations Plans 
allowing them to remain in areas of the RNA during enforcement. 
Comments received during public meetings and public comment periods 
throughout this rulemaking project, show that industry wants the option 
to safely and securely deviate from the RNA restriction. Facilities 
operating in this area are aware of the threat of tropical weather 
conditions and already have operation plans specific to Hurricane 
season in place. Such a plan is part of their normal course of 
business. Therefore, this final rule does call for a collection of 
information in the form of an operational plan from vessels and 
facilities that wish to deviate from the restrictions under the RNA 
when enforced. As understood from industry and waterway user comments 
and responses to the posed questions, no new information would need to 
be collected. Such requirement replaces the waiver option in the 
existing RNA.
    Still, the Coast Guard has been advised that this final rule may 
include a collection of information as defined under the Paperwork 
Reduction Act of 1995, 44 U.S.C. 3501-3520. As defined in 5 CFR 
1320.3(c), ``collection of information'' comprises reporting, 
recordkeeping, monitoring, posting, labeling, and other similar 
actions. Regarding the burden to respond to this collection of 
information, under 5 CFR 1320.3(b)(2), the time, effort, and financial 
resources necessary to comply with the information required to deviate 
under this rule is excluded, and therefore should not be considered a 
burden because it will be incurred in the normal course of business and 
activities.
    The Coast Guard will publish a notice requesting comments on 
revising existing OMB Control Number: 1625-0043 to include any 
collection of information resulting from requirements to voluntarily 
deviate from this RNA. OMB Control Number 1625-0043. The title and 
description of the information collection, a description of those who 
must collect the information, and an estimate of the total annual 
burden are included in that notice, which may be found under the same 
docket number, USCG-2009-0139, as indicated under ADDRESSES.
5. Federalism
    A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, 
Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on the States, on the 
relationship between the national government and the States, or on the 
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of 
government. We have analyzed this rule under that Order and determined 
that this rule does not have implications for federalism.
6. Protest Activities
    The Coast Guard respects the First Amendment rights of protesters. 
Protesters are asked to contact the person listed in the ``For Further 
Information Contact'' section to coordinate protest activities so that 
your message can be received without jeopardizing the safety or 
security of people, places or vessels.
7. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538) 
requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary 
regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may 
result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in 
the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 (adjusted for 
inflation) or more in any one year. Though this rule would not result 
in such expenditure, we do discuss the effects of this rule elsewhere 
in this preamble.
8. Taking of Private Property
    This rule will not cause a taking of private property or otherwise 
have taking implications under Executive Order 12630, Governmental 
Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property 
Rights.

[[Page 21135]]

9. Civil Justice Reform
    This rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) 
of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize litigation, 
eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden.
10. Protection of Children
    We have analyzed this rule under Executive Order 13045, Protection 
of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks. This rule 
is not an economically significant rule and does not create an 
environmental risk to health or risk to safety that may 
disproportionately affect children.
11. Indian Tribal Governments
    This rule does not have tribal implications under Executive Order 
13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments, 
because it does not have a substantial direct effect on one or more 
Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and 
Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities 
between the Federal Government and Indian tribes.
12. Energy Effects
    This rule is not a ``significant energy action'' under Executive 
Order 13211, Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect 
Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use because it is not a ``significant 
regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866 and is not likely to 
have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use 
of energy. The Administrator of the Office of Information and 
Regulatory Affairs has not designated it as a significant energy 
action. Therefore, it does not require a Statement of Energy Effects 
under Executive Order 13211.
13. Technical Standards
    This rule does not use technical standards. Therefore, we did not 
consider the use of voluntary consensus standards.
14. Environment
    We have analyzed this rule under Management Directive 023-01 and 
Commandant Instruction M16475.lD, which guide the Coast Guard in 
complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA)(42 
U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and have made a determination that this action is 
one of a category of actions that do not individually or cumulatively 
have a significant effect on the human environment. This Final Rule 
involves establishing a regulated navigation area as defined within 
this regulation, which is categorically excluded under figure 2-1, 
paragraph (34)(g) of the Instruction. An environmental analysis 
checklist supporting this determination and a Categorical Exclusion 
Determination are available in the docket where indicated under 
ADDRESSES. We seek any comments or information that may lead to the 
discovery of a significant environmental impact from this rule.

List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 165

    Harbors, Marine safety, Navigation (water), Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Security measures, Waterways.

    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 
33 CFR Part 165 as follows:

PART 165--REGULATED NAVIGATION AREAS AND LIMITED ACCESS AREAS

0
1. The authority citation for part 165 continues as follows:

    Authority:  33 U.S.C. 1231; 46 U.S.C. Chapter 701, 3306, 3703; 
50 U.S.C. 191, 195; 33 CFR 1.05-1, 6.04-1, 6.04-6 and 160.5; Pub. L. 
107-295, 116 Stat. 2064; Department of Homeland Security Delegation 
No. 0170.1.

PART 165--REGULATED NAVIGATION AREAS AND LIMITED ACCESS AREAS

0
2. Revise Sec.  165.838 to read as follows:

Sec.  165.838  Regulated Navigation Area; Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, 
Inner Harbor Navigation Canal, New Orleans, LA.

    (a) Location. The following is a regulated navigation area (RNA):
    (1) The Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW) from Mile Marker (MM) 22 
East of Harvey Locks (EHL), west on the GIWW, including the Michoud 
Canal and the Inner Harbor Navigation Canal (IHNC), extending North \1/
2\ mile from the Seabrook Flood Gate Complex out into Lake 
Pontchartrain and South to the IHNC Lock.
    (2) The Harvey Canal, between the Lapalco Boulevard Bridge and the 
confluence of the Harvey Canal and the Algiers Canal;
    (3) The Algiers Canal, from the Algiers Lock to the confluence of 
the Algiers Canal and the Harvey Canal;
    (4) The GIWW from the confluence of Harvey Canal and Algiers Canal 
to MM 7.5 West of Harvey Locks (WHL)
    (b) Definitions. As used in this section:
    (1) Breakaway means a floating vessel that is adrift and that is 
not under its own power or the control of a towboat, or secured to its 
moorings.
    (2) COTP means the Captain of the Port, New Orleans;
    (3) Facility means a fleeting, mooring, industrial facility or 
marina along the shoreline at which vessels are or can be moored and 
which owns, possesses, moors, or leases vessels located in the areas 
described in paragraph (a) of this section.
    (3) Fleet includes one or more tiers of barges.
    (4) Fleeting or mooring facility means the area along the shoreline 
at which vessels are or can be moored.
    (5) Floating vessel means any floating vessel to which the Ports 
and Waterways Safety Act, 33 U.S.C. 1221 et seq., applies.
    (6) Mooring barge or spar barge means a barge moored to mooring 
devices or secured to the ground by spuds, and to which other barges 
may be moored.
    (7) Mooring device includes a deadman, anchor, pile or other 
reliable holding apparatus.
    (8) Navigational structures are the Seabrook Floodgate Complex, the 
IHNC Lake Borgne Surge Barrier, and the West Closure Complex components 
of the Hurricane and Storm Damage Risk Reduction System (HSDRRS).
    (9) Person in charge includes any owner, agent, pilot, master, 
officer, operator, crewmember, supervisor, dispatcher or other person 
navigating, controlling, directing or otherwise responsible for the 
movement, action, securing, or security of any vessel, barge, tier, 
fleet or fleeting or mooring facility subject to the regulations in 
this section.
    (10) Tier means barges moored interdependently in rows or groups.
    (11) Port Coordination Team is a body of public and private port 
stakeholders led by the COTP whose purpose is to share information, 
establish priorities, recommend and implement actions to address risks 
to ports and waterways during incidents and events.
    (12) Tropical Event means the time period immediately preceding, 
during, and immediately following the expected impact of heavy weather 
from a tropical cyclone.
    (c) Enforcement. (1) The provisions of paragraph (d) of this 
section will be enforced during a tropical event beginning 24 hours in 
advance of the predicted closure of the IHNC Lake Borgne Surge Barrier 
structure within the HSDRRS (IHNC & GIWW) in the area defined in 
paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
    (2) The provisions of paragraph (d) of this section will be 
enforced beginning 24 hours in advance of the predicted closure of the 
West Closure Complex within the HSDRRS (Harvey & Algiers Canals) in the 
area defined in paragraphs (a)(2) through (4) of this section.
    (3) If the Coast Guard receives notice of a closure less than 24 
hours before

[[Page 21136]]

closure, the provisions of paragraph (d) of this section will be 
enforced upon the COTP receiving the notice of predicted closing.
    (4) In the event that a particularly dangerous storm is predicted, 
the COTP, in consultation with the Port Coordination Team, may require 
all floating vessels to evacuate the RNA beginning as early as 72 hours 
before predicted closure of any navigational structure or upon notice 
that particularly dangerous storm conditions are approaching, whichever 
is less.
    (5) The COTP will notify the maritime community of the enforcement 
periods for this RNA through Marine Safety Information Bulletins and 
Safety Broadcast Notices to Mariners.
    (d) Regulations. During the period that the RNA is enforced and 
before closure of the navigational structures, all floating vessels 
must depart the RNA except as follows:
    (1) Floating vessels may remain in the Harvey and Algiers Canals, 
provided they are moored sufficiently to prevent a breakaway and meet 
the minimum mooring requirements and conditions set forth in paragraphs 
(f) and (g) of this section.
    (2) Floating vessels may remain in the Michoud Canal at least \1/4\ 
mile north of the intersection of the Michoud Canal and the GIWW, the 
GIWW from MM 15 EHL to MM 10 EHL, provided they are moored sufficiently 
to prevent a breakaway and meet the minimum mooring requirements and 
conditions set forth in paragraphs (f) and (g) of this section.
    (3) During the period that the RNA is enforced and before closure 
of the navigational structures, vessels may transit through the RNA en 
route to a destination outside of the RNA given there is sufficient 
time to transit prior to the closure of a navigational structure, or 
they may transit to a facility within the RNA with which they have a 
prearranged agreement. These vessel movements and time critical 
decisions will be made by the COTP in consultation with the Port 
Coordination Team.
    (4) The COTP may review, on a case-by-case basis, alternatives to 
minimum mooring requirements and conditions set forth in paragraphs (f) 
and (g) of this section and may approve a deviation to these 
requirements and conditions should they provide an equivalent level of 
safety.
    (e) Special Requirements for Facilities. In addition to the mooring 
and towboat requirements discussed in paragraph (f) and (g) of this 
section, Facilities within the area described in paragraph (a) of this 
section that wish to deviate from these restrictions because they have 
vessels intending to remain within the areas allowed in paragraphs 
(d)(1) and (2) of this section shall comply with the below 
documentation and maintenance requirements in order to obtain the 
COTP's approval for their vessel(s) to remain in the closed RNA.
    (1) Annual Hurricane Operations Plan. All facilities that have 
vessels intending to deviate from this RNA and remain within the areas 
allowed in paragraphs (d)(1) and (2) of this section shall develop an 
operations plan. The operations plan shall be readily available by May 
1st of each calendar year for review by the COTP. The Annual Hurricane 
Operations Plan shall include:
    (i) A description of the maximum number of vessels the facility 
intends to have remaining at any one time during hurricane season.
    (ii) A detailed plan for any vessel(s) that are intended to be 
sunk/grounded in place when the RNA is enforced if evacuation is not 
possible.
    (iii) A diagram of the waterfront facility and fleeting area.
    (iv) Name, call sign, official number, and operational status of 
machinery on board (i.e., engines, generators, fire fighting pumps, 
bilge pumps, anchors, mooring machinery, etc.) each standby towboat.
    (v) Characteristics for each vessel remaining at the fleeting or 
mooring facility, as applicable (length, breadth, draft, air draft, 
gross tonnage, hull type, horsepower, single or twin screw);
    (vi) Details of mooring arrangements in accordance with mooring 
requirements and conditions set forth in paragraphs (g) and (h) of this 
section or COTP case-by-case approved deviations;
    (vii) Certification by a professional engineer that the mooring 
arrangements are able to withstand winds of up to 140 mph, a surge 
water level of eleven feet, a current of four mph and a wave height of 
three feet within the canal basin in the area defined in paragraph 
(a)(1) of this section and a surge water level of eight feet, a current 
of four mph, and a wave height of two and a half feet within the canal 
basin in the area defined in paragraphs (a)(2) through (4) of this 
section;
    (viii) Emergency contact information for the owner/operator, and/or 
agent of the facility/property.
    (ix) 24-hour emergency contact information for qualified 
individuals empowered in writing by the owners/operators to make on-
site decisions and authorize expenditures for any required pollution 
response or salvage.
    (x) Full insurance disclosure to the COTP. Vessels moored to a 
facility shall provide insurance information to the facility.
    (2) Storm Specific Verification Report. 72 hrs prior to predicted 
closure of the navigational structures, those facilities which have 
vessels that intend to remain within the RNA shall submit a Storm 
Specific Verification Report to the COTP New Orleans. The requirements 
for this Storm Specific Verification Report are located in the Canal 
Hurricane Operations Plan, which is Enclosure Six to the Sector New 
Orleans Maritime Hurricane Contingency Port Plan, http://homeport.uscg.mil/nola. The report shall include:
    (i) Updated contact information, including names of manned 
towboat(s) and individuals remaining on the towboat(s).
    (ii) Number of vessels currently moored and mooring configurations 
if less than stated in Annual Hurricane Operations Plan.
    (iii) If the number of vessels exceeds the amount listed in the 
Annual Hurricane Operations Plan, describe process and timeframe for 
evacuating vessels to bring total number of vessels into alignment with 
the Annual Hurricane Operations Plan.
    (3) The person in charge of a facility shall inspect each mooring 
wire, chain, line and connecting gear between mooring devices and each 
wire, line and connecting equipment used to moor each vessel, and each 
mooring device. Inspections shall be performed according to the 
following timelines and guidance:
    (i) Annually between May 1 and June 1 of each calendar year; and
    (ii) After vessels are added to, withdrawn from, or moved at a 
facility, each mooring wire, line, and connecting equipment of each 
barge within each tier affected by that operation; and
    (iii) At least weekly between June 1 and November 30; and
    (iv) 72 hrs prior to predicted closure of the navigation structures 
within this RNA; or within 6 hrs of the predicted closure, if the 
notice of predicted closure is less than 72 hrs.
    (4) The person who inspects moorings shall take immediate action to 
correct any deficiency.
    (5) Facility Records. The person in charge of a fleeting or mooring 
facility shall maintain, and make available to the COTP, records 
containing the following information:
    (i) The time of commencement and termination of each inspection.
    (ii) The name of each person who makes the inspection.
    (iii) The identification of each vessel, barge entering or 
departing the fleeting

[[Page 21137]]

or mooring facility, along with the following information:
    (A) Date and time of entry and departure; and
    (B) The names of any hazardous cargo which the vessel is carrying.
    (6) The person in charge of a facility shall ensure continuous 
visual surveillance of all vessels at the facility.
    (7) The person who observes the vessels shall:
    (i) Inspect for movements that are unusual for properly secured 
vessels; and
    (ii) Take immediate action to correct each deficiency.
    (f) Mooring Requirements. Facility owners shall consider all 
requirements within this section as minimum standards. Title 33 CFR 
165.803, United Facilities Criteria (UFC) 4-159 and American Society of 
the Civil Engineers (ASCE)7 should be utilized by Professional 
Engineers in the certification of the Annual Hurricane Operations Plan.
    (1) No person may secure a vessel to trees or to other vegetation.
    (2) No person may allow a vessel to be moored with unraveled or 
frayed lines or other defective or worn mooring.
    (3) No person may moor barges side to side unless they are secured 
to each other from fittings as close to each corner of abutting sides 
as practicable.
    (4) No person may moor barges end to end unless they are secured to 
each other from fittings as close to each corner of abutting ends as 
practicable.
    (5) A vessel may be moored to mooring devices if both ends of that 
vessel are secured to mooring devices.
    (6) Barges may be moored in tiers if each shoreward barge is 
secured to mooring devices at each end.
    (7) A vessel must be secured as near as practicable to each 
abutting corner by:
    (i) Three parts of wire rope of at least 1\1/4\ inch diameter with 
an eye at each end of the rope passed around the timberhead, caval, or 
button;
    (ii) A mooring of natural or synthetic fiber rope that has at least 
the breaking strength of three parts of 1\1/4\ inch diameter wire rope; 
or
    (iii) Fixed rigging that is at least equivalent to three parts of 
1\1/4\ inch diameter wire rope.
    (8) The person in charge shall ensure that all mooring devices, 
wires, chains, lines and connecting gear are of sufficient strength and 
in sufficient number to withstand forces that may be exerted on them by 
moored vessels/barges.
    (g) Towboat Requirements. The person in charge of a fleeting or 
mooring facility must ensure:
    (1) Each facility consisting of eight or more vessels that are not 
under their own power must be attended by at least one radar-equipped 
towboat for every 50 vessels.
    (2) Each towboat required must be:
    (i) Able to secure any breakaways;
    (ii) Capable of safely withdrawing or moving any vessel at the 
fleeting or mooring facility;
    (iii) Immediately operational;
    (iv) Radio-equipped;
    (v) No less than 800 horsepower;
    (vi) Within 500 yards of the vessels.
    (3) The person in charge of each towboat required must maintain a 
continuous guard on the frequency specified by current Federal 
Communications Commission regulations found in 47 CFR part 83; a 
continuous watch on the vessels moored at facility; and report any 
breakaway as soon as possible to the COTP via telephone, radio or other 
means of rapid communication.
    (h) Transient vessels will not be permitted to seek safe haven in 
the RNA except in accordance with a prearranged agreement between the 
vessel and a facility within the RNA.
    (i) Penalties. Failure to comply with this section may result in 
civil or criminal penalties pursuant to the Ports and Waterways Safety 
Act, 33 U.S.C. 1221 et seq.

    Dated: April 1, 2014.
K.S. Cook,
Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Eighth Coast Guard District.
[FR Doc. 2014-08265 Filed 4-14-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9110-04-P