Max Armstrong reminds us about how important river locks are to ag transportation.

A groundbreaking was recently held for a new river lock on the Mississippi River. It is being built by the Arm Corp. of Engineers and will be 1200 feet long and 110 feet wide. The locks on the Mississippi River passes 23 million tons of agricultural products a year.

This lock was chosen for it’s location and will also include environmental restoration for fish passages. The total funding for the project includes $829 million and updates for the lock and dam #22.

The Army Corps. Of Engineers operates locks 24 hours a day and seven days a week.

The upgrade will allow for the quicker passage of two boats and barges.

Max Armstrong's Farm Progress America is a daily look at key issues in agriculture. It is produced and presented by Max Armstrong, veteran farm broadcaster and host of This Week in Agribusiness.