In a message dated 3/11/2004 10:24:46 AM Eastern Standard Time, pamaird@cox.net writes: << The estimate to restore the waterway to its authorized depth of 12feet in each state is: Virginia, $4.2M; North Carolina, $11M; South Carolina, $6M; Georgia, $19.2M; and Florida$3.2M. >> I wonder why we need a depth of 12 feet? The inland waterways are dredged to 9 feet (Ohio River, Illinois River, Tenn-tom, etc.). Barges are designed for a 9 foot draft. The cruise line (American Canadian Cruise Line) can handle 9 feet. I am sure the cost of dredging from 9 ft to 12ft goes up exponentially. Incidentally, I emailed my lobbying letter to http://appropriations.house.gov/index.cfm?FuseAction=ContactInformation.Contac tForm I urge all boaters who are planning to do the Great Circle when they retire to lobby now or there will not be a Great Circle. Alan Lloyd US Coast Guard Licensed Captain 1058796