Army Plan Would Limit Lock Usage on Ala. Rivers

State officials are criticizing a plan that would limit lock usage on the Alabama and Chattahoochee rivers.

Citing budget cuts and low river traffic, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said starting Oct. 7 it will allow commercial boats to transit the locks if boat operators make an appointment 72 hours in advance. The locks allow boats to bypass dams that obstruct river travel.

Recreational boats can use the locks only if the locks are being used for another purpose.

The Mobile Press-Register (http://bit.ly/QoEmyy ) reports the plan would affect Miller's Ferry Lock in Wilcox County, Claiborne Lock in Monroe County, the Walter George Lock in Barbour County and the George Andrews Lock in Houston County.

Gov. Robert Bentley wants the decision reversed, saying it will harm riverfront communities.

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Information from: Press-Register, http://www.al.com/press-register/

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.