Local leaders discuss continuing economic development of the Ouachita River

Local leaders are talking about the economic development of the Ouachita River this week. That's the theme for the Ouachita River Valley Association's conference from August 29-30.

John Stringer from ORVA says emergency repairs to the Columbia Lock and Dam have impacted the development. The repairs, which started in July, forced the Army Corps of Engineers to lower the river level by three feet. Since then, boat ramps have been closed, and barge access has been blocked. He says the Army Corps of Engineers is expected to give an update on the repairs during the conference. Right now, Stringer believes the construction will finish in December.

Stringer says it affects both the recreational and business use of the river. He also says blocking barge access can increase gas prices by about 7 cents per gallon.

Studies show the Ouachita River has a $5.7 billion annual impact.

He says big companies rely on the river, and since barge traffic has been stopped, businesses have had to adjust.

"Most of the industries that depend on the river for discharge are the paper mill for discharges and Entergy depends on it for water intake,” Stringer says. “They're having some issues with it. I think they've had to make some adjustments."

"It touches everyone; whether they know it or not, it does,” he says. “The Ouachita River basin spans about 16,000 square miles. We look after the interest of Hot Springs all the way to the lower part of the river."

Congress approved additional funding this summer for fifth district waterways, and the Army Corps of Engineers' budget was increased for water projects.

The Ouachita River Valley Association says funding from Washington D.C. is key to maintaining the river.

This year's keynote speaker is Congressman Ralph Abraham.