|
|
|
|
TWIC Update
April 4th Survey Results
On April 4th, a survey was sent to all boats requesting the enrollment status of all crew. Here are the results.
Of Our Crews:
24% - have received their card or have been notified that it is ready for pick-up.
31% - have enrolled and are waiting for the card to be produced.
22%- are pre-enrolled and are waiting to go to their appointment.
23% - have not pre-enrolled.
A Message from the USCG.....
Under current law, all holders of merchant mariner credentials will be required to apply for and be issued a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). A licensed mariner is required to have a TWIC by September 25, 2008, unless changes to the implementation schedule are made. After that date, individuals may not operate under the authority of a mariner credential without a valid TWIC, and failure to obtain or hold a TWIC may serve as the basis for suspension or revocation of the mariner credential. In addition to the regulatory prohibition on the mariner against serving under the authority of the credential without a TWIC, an employer cannot employ an individual in a position requiring the authority of the mariner credential if the mariner doesn't have a TWIC. Information pertaining to the TWIC may be found on the Internet at
Copy to the Office
If you have not given a copy of your TWIC to the office, stop by during crew change to have it recorded. |
| High Water Continues
Waterways Action Plan
As a result of the Baton Rouge gage reading of over 35 feet and expected to continue to rise, the Captain of the Port of New Orleans has implemented a safety zone from MM225 to MM229, Lower Mississippi River.
For vessels transiting these waters, review the Waterways Action Plan. The full text, can be found here:
|
 Skiff Operations
Outboard Engine Fuel and E10 Gasoline
The gasoline purchased today in the Houston market is called E10 meaning that the gasoline is blended with 10% Ethanol. Ethanol, a grain alcohol, is blended with conventional gasoline in a mixture of 10 percent ethanol to 90 percent gasoline, hence the term E10. Today's automobiles are designed to operate without problems with this fuel and the program has largely been a success.
Using E10 to fuel our skiff outboards however can lead to several problems that can be solved with some attention.
The major downside to E10 gas is that the alcohol content attracts moisture. The alcohol attracts and joins with the moisture in the air to create amounts of water in the fuel tank. Ethanol bonds to water and the mixture will fall to the bottom of the tank as a separate layer where it can find its way into the engine. There is also a tendency to release sludge which results in clogged filters and injectors. The situation is exacerbated by boats that sit idle, such as the skiff that gets minimal use.
Tips on keeping your outboard running smoothly:
1. Keep vent on fuel tank tightly closed while storing tank.
2. Before putting up the skiff, run the engine with the fuel line disconnected to run the engine dry.
3. It is recommended that E10 gasoline not be stored over 90 days.
4. Keep tanks clean and watch for sludge buildup in the tank.
From - Evinrude, Johnson Outboard Engines
"Your outboard is certified to operate on unleaded automotive gasoline with an octanerating equal to or higher than that specified in Minimum Octane chart. When using gasoline that contains MTBE or alcohol, follow these guidelines. Using alcohol-extended fuels is acceptable ONLY if the alcohol content does not exceed:
· 10% ethanol by volume.
· 5% methanol with 5% cosolvents by volume.
OMC products have been designed to operate using the above fuel: however, be aware of the following:
· The boat's fuel system may have different requirements regarding the use of alcohol fuels. Refer to the boat's owner manual.
· Alcohol attracts and holds moisture that can cause corrosion of metallic parts in the fuel system.
· Alcohol blended fuel can cause engine performance problems.
· All parts in the fuel system should be inspected frequently and replaced if signs of deterioration or leakage are found. Inspect at least annually."
|
 KNOW YOUR KNOTS
Training Site Helps illustrate Knot Tying
It is sometimes frustrating and time consuming training new deckhands on how to tie the knots used in daily operations.
Here is a great website that illustrates all the Knots needed in an easy way:
| |
|
Dates to Remember APR/MAY 2008
Tankerman School- Two Rivers APR 14 - APR 19
Wheelmen's Seminar APR 15 - APR 16
Tankerman School- Two Rivers MAY 19 -MAY 24
Simulator Training MAY 19 -MAY 21
WHEELMEN...Last call for the final WHEELMEN'S Seminar session, please call or email Diana as soon as possible! | |
The Wheelmen's Seminars held during the past weeks were great opportunities for the shoreside staff to visit and share ideas with our Wheelmen and their spouses. For those of you that were able to make it, thanks for coming! We really appreciate the time spent with you!
Next time I hope to be a better Poker Player!
Sincerely, |
GORDIE KEENAN
HIGMAN MARINE SERVICES, Inc. |
|
|
