Southwestern Division, partners invite media to 50-year commemoration of the MKARNS

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Southwestern Division and its partners along the McClellan‐Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System will host a media day to promote the 50^th anniversary of the System that strategically connects the heartland of the United States with the rest of the world.

The MKARNS 50^th Anniversary Kickoff Media Event will be at 1 p.m., March 9, at the Dardanelle Lock and Dam Overlook in Russellville, Ark. USACE and partner representatives will provide historical information, a current status overview and a glimpse into the future of the MKARNS. Speakers and subject matter experts will be available for interviews. The event will be livestreamed for the public. For more information on the media event or to RSVP contact: Edward Rivera at 817-694-9769 or email edward.rivera@usace.army.mil. Media should RSVP by noon March 8.

Throughout 2021, the Southwestern Division, Little Rock and Tulsa Districts will support local partners to showcase the MKARNS through a series of online and in-person events. The versatile, 445-mile waterway is a crucial part of the nation’s transportation system providing navigation, as well as, hydropower, recreation, water supply and fish and wildlife habitats.

Media are also invited to remain for the christening of the Little Rock District’s new Survey Vessel “Peevy,” immediately following the Kickoff event. The Survey vessel is named after Robert Uyless Peevy, born July 7, 1951, and died on August 23, 2011. Peevy served most of his long and dedicated career as a boat operator on similar vessels. His dedication to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or USACE, knowledge of the river, boat operating skills, easy going personality and jovial spirit were just a few of the qualities for which he is fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of working with him. For more information on the Christening email: ceswl-pa@usace.army.mil or call: 501-324-5551 (business hours), or 501-563-6835 (after hours).

Due to COVID-19 protocols please arrive 20 minutes prior to the event for COVID-19 screening and temperature check.

For more information on the McClellan‐Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System and commemorative events go to: https://www.swd.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/MKARNS-50th-Anniversary/. B-roll and photos on the MKARNS is available at: https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/MKARNS50.