Corn growers depend on reliable, cost-effective transportation - whether by barge, truck or rail - to deliver farm inputs to producers and to deliver harvested grain to markets. Presently, the U.S. enjoys a comparative advantage in corn production world wide, and the per-ton cost for transporting corn in the United States is lower than in other countries. But the United States has allowed its transportation infrastructure to deteriorate. At the same time, our competitors are making major investments in their transportation systems. Thus, our international competitiveness is in jeopardy. Unless our nation invests in major improvements to our aging transportation infrastructure, U.S. agriculture will pay the price.

OUR GOAL:

NCGA seeks the replacement of the existing 600 foot locks with 1,200 foot lock chambers at Mississippi L&D 25,24,22,21,20 and LaGrange and Peoria on the Illinois river. In addition we advocate guidewall extensions at Mississippi L&D 18, 17, 16, 15, and 14.

Economic Benefits of Improving
the Upper Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

Environmental Benefits of Improving
the Upper Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

Map of Upper Mississippi - Illinois River Locks Click for larger Comparing the mode of hauling grain Click for larger

Last reveiwed May 10, 2004

ST. LOUIS OFFICE

WASHINGTON D.C. OFFICE