25 Jul 2025

Brandon Road Lock and Dam, Des Plaines River: Navigation Approach Physical Model

Abstract: This physical model study of the Brandon Road Lock and Dam was conducted to evaluate the navigation conditions associated with the implementation of two proposed engineered channels and associated features in the downstream approach channel. A 1:100 Froude scale physical model was constructed to evaluate the navigation conditions for tows entering and exiting the lower approach. Features included in the scaled model include the lock, the gated spillway, roughly 2 mi of the Des Plaines River and surrounding topography, and two NRG Energy generating stations. Data were collected to evaluate tow tracks and current direction and velocity information. Videos and rough estimations were also collected to gain an understanding of the water that displaces upstream when a downbound tow transits through the engineered channels.

10 Jun 2024

Lock and Dam 25, Upper Mississippi River Navigation Study: Ship-Simulation Results

Abstract: The US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory (CHL), used the Ship/Tow Simulator to evaluate navigational conditions for the US Army Corps of Engineers, St. Louis District (MVS), proposed 1,200 feet (ft) lock chamber at Lock and Dam 25 in a tow simulation study. The study considers the impacts to navigation throughout construction sequences of the proposed 1,200 ft lock chamber and the final completed project. Testing occurred at CHL in October–November 2022 with five industry tow pilots. A total of 47 unique test conditions for a total of 187 ship-simulation exercises were evaluated. All final project simulations indicated that the design is feasible. When testing the construction scenarios of the design, it was evident that a tug assist boat would be necessary for entering the 600 ft lock for both approaches. Results found that the intermediate wall construction should begin at the existing structure and progress downstream. Entering the 600 ft lock from the pool side was additionally completed successfully; however, modifications are needed for entering from the tailwater side. Ultimately, the results of this study will aid MVS in the design plan and decision-making regarding the proposed lock.