Feenstra Applauds Coast Guard Decision to Keep 36 Aids to Navigation on Missouri River North of Blencoe

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement after the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) announced that it would pause removal of 36 Aids to Navigation (ATONs) on the Missouri River north of Blencoe, Iowa:

“I am glad that the U.S. Coast Guard heard the concerns of our Western Iowa community and has decided to keep 36 Aids to Navigation in place on the Missouri River north of Blencoe. These devices ensure the safety of ships and their crews and keep our water supply chains moving effortlessly – allowing our farmers, businesses, and manufacturers to ship their goods and serve their customers. I will continue to advocate for robust investment in the Missouri River, the maintenance of these critical ATONs, and policies that support our waterways and grow our economy.”

Last December, Feenstra led a letter to USCG Captain Andrew Bender urging the USCG to reconsider its decision to remove 36 ATONs on the Missouri River north of Blencoe, Iowa and to continue infrastructure investments in the Missouri River.

Eight lawmakers and 53 local businesses, organizations, and leaders supported Feenstra’s letter.

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