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Statement by Thomas A. Allegretti, President & Chief Executive Officer of The American Waterways Operators on the Impact of Hurricane Katrina on the Towing Industry

WASHINGTON, D.C. - "In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, there has obviously been some disruption to the smooth flow of barge commerce. Because of the communications gaps on the lower Mississippi River, it is unclear how many barges are being held up at this time; it is just too early to say. The barging industry has always been extremely resilient and the owners and operators of the tugboat, towboat and barge industry have a long tradition of helping each other out during emergencies. We know that much of that industry support is now underway and we are confident that most barges will be back up and moving soon. To help with relief assistance, members of AWO are also making their equipment available to the Coast Guard and the Army Corp of Engineers."

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