LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - The U.S Army Corps of Engineers will host a news media tour and photo opportunity Dec. 02, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to provide a behind-the-scenes look at repair work underway at Dardanelle Lock and Dam. News organizations are invited to send a team to cover the progress.

News teams should arrive at the Russellville Site Office located at 1598 Lock and Dam Rd., between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Reservations are required. To RSVP, please call 501-708-6448. Prior coordination will allow us to assign a representative to meet your organization’s needs.

Live broadcasts from the site can be accommodated.

USACE began lowering the navigation pool to 336 feet Nov. 28, 2025, to support repairs to the damaged miter gate at Dardanelle Lock and Dam. The work is expected to last about two weeks. The 336-foot level is within the project’s normal operating range.

The gate was damaged when a downbound vessel operated by Marquette Transportation struck the structure on Nov. 21, 2025. USACE engineers inspected the gate at first light Nov. 22 and found significant structural damage above the waterline.

The lock will remain closed until repairs are completed. USACE has coordinated the closure with navigation stakeholders.

This incident underscores the importance of the MKARNS, a system that drives regional commerce, supports national supply-chain strength and anchors long-term economic resilience. USACE has a long record of engineering, operating, and maintaining MKARNS and remains committed to ensuring its reliability and performance for the communities and industries that depend on it.