Harbor Safety Committee Minutes

WEDNESDAY, 03 DECEMBER, 2003

The Ninety Sixth Meeting of the Los Angeles/Long Beach Harbor Safety Committee was convened in the main auditorium of the Port of Long Beach Administration Building. Chairman Strong called the Meeting to order at 10:10 a.m. The Executive Secretary determined that there was a quorum present, with the following representatives present:

PORT OF LONG BEACH		PORT OF LOS ANGELES	LONG BEACH PILOT ORGANIZATION
(Vacant)		CAPT Jim Morgan (POLAPS)	CAPT. John Strong (JPS)

TANKER OPERATORS		LOS ANGELES PILOT ORGANIZATION	MOORING MASTERS
CAPT W. Tomasavich (ATC)		CAPT Bent Christensen	CAPT Mike Miller (Chevron Texaco)

TUG & BARGE OPERATORS		DRY CARGO CARRIERS	FOR RECREATIONAL BOATERS
CAPT Jim Penny (Crowley)		Mr. Dave Pritzos (K-Line)	Mr. Tom Dessel

ORGANIZED LABOR		CALIF. COASTAL COMM.	CALIF STATE LANDS COMM.
Mr. John Cox (SIU)		Ms. Ellen Farout-Daniels	Mr. Gary Gregory


U.S. COAST GUARD		ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS	FOR ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS
CAPT Peter Neffenger (COTP)		(Absent) (Orange County CoastKeeper)	(Vacant)

OFFICE OF SPILL PREVENTION & RESPONSE (OSPR)		PASSENGER FERRY OPERATORS	U.S.ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
Mr. James Rolin, Field Rep.		CAPT Ray Lyman (Catalina Express)	Mr. Jim Fields

	EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
	CAPT Manny Aschemeyer (MX-VTS) ALTERNATES, MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC, AND OTHER PARTIES (SEE ATTACHED LIST)

Chairman Strong opened the meeting by welcoming everyone in attendance, thanking them for their interest and participation in the Los Angeles/Long Beach Harbor Safety Committee. He expressed the Committee’s appreciation and thanks to the Port of Long Beach for making their facilities available for this gathering and for providing the continental breakfast enjoyed by all.

The Chairman then advised the audience that they would be offered the opportunity to speak before this panel, after Item IV under “New Business” was announced. He also encouraged all present to be sure to “sign-up” on the attendance sheet being circulated amongst the audience. The Chairman explained that certain members of the LA/LB HSC panel were “non-voting” and therefore would not be participating in any “show of hands” vote called to determine a decision on any particular agenda or action item.

The Chairman then called for self-introductions amongst the LA/LB HSC Representatives and Alternates. He also recognized and welcomed Mr. Ray Tsuneyoshi, Director of the California Department of Boating and Waterways, who was in attendance today, and thanked him for taking time from his busy schedule to participate in this session.

ITEM I -- APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Chairman Strong called for approval of the minutes of the 95th Meeting. Dave Pritzos moved, seconded by Ray Lyman, to accept and approve the Minutes of the 95th Meeting, as presented. Motion carried unanimously by a show of hands from voting members present.

ITEM II -- OLD BUSINESS:

(A) Update On Marine Exchange Vessel Traffic Center:

CAPT Dick McKenna, Deputy Executive Director, MX-LA/LB Harbor, reported that there were three (3) reportable “incidents” since the last HSC meeting -- 1- mechanical/propulsion problems, 1- “med-evac”, and 1- Rules of the Road procedures violation. The VTS has recorded 34 incidents for the year thus far. That compares with 36 incident recorded in 2002. Of the 34 incidents for this year, 21 were “mechanical/propulsion” related, and 5 were “medical emergencies”.

CAPT McKenna announced that the VTS has been fitted with new, state-of-the-art, “A.I.S.” equipment (Automated Identification System), allowing for the tracking of vessels that are carrying this equipment to be tracked independent of radar. Under normal conditions, vessels can be tracked out to 40 miles with A.I.S. There are some “interface issues” that have to be worked out, but the system should be fully functional by next week. Additionally, A.I.S. provides the name of the vessel, its precise location (latitude and longitude), and its course and speed. In the future, additional information and data can be transmitted to the VTS, including crew & passenger lists, cargo manifest data, hazardous cargo lists, etc.

CAPT McKenna also announced that the Marine Exchange was offering its “Target Mapping Program” via the Marine Exchange/PortSource web site (www.mxsocal.org). “Target Mapping” provides a real-time picture of the VTS “AOR” (Area of Responsibility, which extends 25 nautical miles to seaward from Point Fermin), complete with all “targeted vessels” shown, whether tracked by radar, transponders, or AIS. This program is available to those in need of such information for port operations, navigation safety or port security, including: tug companies, line handlers, terminal operators, government agencies, law enforcement, and the like. Cost for access to the “Target Mapping Program” on the MX-PortSource web site is $100 per month for Marine Exchange subscribers; $150 per month for non-subscribers. This new “Target Mapping Program” is a vital asset to the maritime industry and waterfront business community, and will undoubtedly improve and enhance port operations at every level for those who subscribe to this important program offering.

(B) Update on USCG MSO/Group Activities:

In addition to those incidents addressed by LCDR Kummerfeld in the USCG’s SCbriefing report (Please see attached report – HSC “Local CG Briefing” dated 12-03-03), CAPT Neffenger also called attention to the following items:

(1) CAPT Neffenger explained that the USCG was focused on the implementation of the new MTSA (Maritime Transportation Security Act) provisions, and would remain focused on that task for the next several months.

(2) “Area Maritime Security Committee (AMSC)” – CAPT Neffenger announced that, pursuant to provisions in the MTSA, he is responsible for forming an “Area Maritime Security Committee” for this region. However, unlike other regions of the country, he noted that the LA/LB Harbor community has already addressed port and maritime security in a most profound and productive way, operating through no less than three (3) port security panels – the “Safety & Security” committee of the Southern California MTS Advisory Council (made up of MTS and port stakeholders); the “Port Security Committee” (made up mostly by law enforcement agencies); and “The Mayor’s Port Security Advisory Council” (made up of elected and appointed officials, port authority staff, organized labor, and senior management from the waterfront business community). Hence, rather than “re-invent the wheel”, CAPT Neffenger plans to give careful thought to the process of forming the AMSC for LA/LB Harbor, making an attempt to include the leadership from the three current panels mentioned earlier, and allowing the “grass-roots” efforts to continue as they have for addressing and improving port and maritime security for the region. CAPT Neffenger will seek (and depend upon) input from the LA/LB Harbor community (and from those serving on the existing port and maritime security panels) to determine how best to combine and/or merge the activities and efforts to address and enhance maritime and port security for the future.

(2) There will be a “SONS” (Spill of National Significance) exercise conducted by the USCG and participating “first responders” in April of next year, featuring a simulated explosion aboard a tank vessel outside LA/LB Harbor, resulting in a 1 million gallon release of oil into the water. 12 hours into that simulated incident, there will be a simulated barge collision in San Diego Bay, resulting in a significant oil spill, and which will be addressed by both U.S. and Mexican government agencies, as well as OSRO’s on both side of the border.

(3) There will be a “Town Hall Meeting” on December 10th at the POLB, hosted by the SOCAL-MTSAC’s “Safety & Security Committee”, featuring officials from USCG and TSA to discuss the MTSA requirements for “Vessel & Facility Security Plans”, and the TWIC program. All interested parties are encouraged to be there.

(4) There will be a NORTHCOM DOD drill next August, called “Determined Promise” (DP-04), which will run for five days, and involve over 1800 participating organizations, agencies, and entities. There will be a simulated terrorist attack (or attacks), which will result in various incidents that demand immediate response and reaction. As more information comes in concerning this drill, the USCG will keep the LA/LB HSC advised accordingly.

(5) The USCG participated in another DOD drill three weeks ago, where the scenario indicated that a “weapon of mass destruction” had entered the Port of Hueneme. This drill was to test the interaction between various state, local and federal agencies in responding to this kind of terrorist threat. The drill went very well.

(6) CAPT Neffenger announced that the MSO was addressing the issue of “container operations safety” on the dock, as well as on the waterside. LCDR Fassero is the POC for the ad hoc work group assigned to this task. Several containers have been dropped on to the docks recently -- as well as over the waterside and on to bunker barges -- with the potential for causing property damage, personal injury, or even death. The LA/LB HSC has met with the PMA to help resolve these safety issues as well.

(9) CAPT Neffenger noted that several congressional delegations, as well as visitors from overseas ports – all interested in what we are doing locally to enhance and improve port security -- had visited LA/LB Harbor over the past few weeks. Additional visits are anticipated in the weeks and months to come.

(10) There will be several boat parades conducted for the holiday season, with USCG participation and oversight, including the following: POLA Harbor, POLB Harbor, Morrow Bay, Huntington Harbor, Santa Barbara, Marina Del Rey, and Newport Bay.

(11) LCDR Fassero discussed the USCG’s report on tug manning and fatigue in detail, and answered several questions concerning same. Copies of the report were distributed today to the committee and to the public.

(1) Mr. Jim Rolin reported that the HSC “summit meeting” that was held in Sacramento on October 30th – involving all HSC Chairs and Secretariats from around the state -- was a success. All Harbor Safety Plans were reviewed and compared, along with various issues being dealt with at the five (5) harbor safely committees located around the state (Humboldt Bay, San Francisco Bay, Port Hueneme, LA/LB Harbor, and San Diego Bay).

(2) Mr. Rolin indicated that there are significant “winds of change” evident in Sacramento, with the election of a new Governor last month, so the dynamics for conducting business there is in flux right now. He will keep us posted on what impacts, if any, will be thrust upon OSPR at that level.

(3) The new regulations for tug escorts for tankers at LA/LB Harbor will be presented at the meeting in February. These proposed regs take into effect the “tug manning and fatigue” study completed last year by the local USCG (and also the AWO-USCG joint report on tug manning and fatigue issues).

(4) The OSPR Administrator is preparing a response to the resolutions passed by the POLA Harbor Commissioners, through which they seek to have a “dedicated seat” created for ILWU Local 68 (Los Angeles Pilots Assoc.). Meantime, the LA/LB HSC has voted on three occasions over the past year NOT to create a special seat for ILWU Local 68.

(5) The National HSC Conference will be held in Fort Lauderdale in February, with CAPT John Strong and CAPT Manny Aschemeyer slated to attend as representing the LA/LB HSC. Mr. Rolin indicated that it had been suggested that the LA/LB HSC be the “host HSC” for the following National HSC Conference in February of 2005. CAPT Strong asked that considerations be given for hosting the National HSC Conference at LA/LB Harbor in 2005.

(D) Update on Local OSPR Activities:

Mr. James Rolin announced that “Alternates” have been nominated and approved for the “Recreational Boater’s” seat, and the “Tug and Barge Operator’s” seat. Final paperwork is due for the Alternate nominated for the “Organized Labor” seat, and an application has been received for the “Passenger Ferry Operator’s” seat (which expired last month). Also approved for installation to the LA/LB HSC are: Representative & Alternate for the “Environmental Organization for Santa Monica Bay”; and the Representative & Alternate for the new “Marine Oil Terminal Operator’s” seat. Capt. Jim Penny, new “Alternate” for the tug and barge operator’s seat, was “sworn in” by Mr. Rolin, and he was given a hearty round of applause in welcoming him to the LA/LB HSC. The other appointees will be “sworn in” at the next meeting.

(E) Update on California State Lands Commission. Activities:

Mr. Gary Gregory reported on the following –

(1) The California State Lands Commission has been affected by budget cuts. The Marine Facilities Division has lost 18% - 20% in that process, but is trying its best to maintain its missions and responsibilities to the public.

(2) The new governor has issued an “Executive Order” that puts a “hiring freeze” on all state agencies and organizations (including a “freeze” on promotions and replacements).

(3) The new governor has also decreed a “freeze” on all “regulatory actions” pending in Sacramento. Hence, any and all pending regulations that have not yet been finalized in Sacramento will not be allowed to move forward for “up to 180 days”. Some of the pending regulations that will be halted by this directive include:

(a) OSPR’s proposed regs for tug escorts for tank vessels at LA/LB Harbor

(b) CSLA’s “emergency regs” to establish a $500 fee for ballast water program

(4) AB 2083 (“The Oil Transfer and Transportation Emissions and Risk Production Act”) requires “responsible parties” (or owners) of oil who are moving their cargoes between San Francisco Bay and LA/LB Harbor (or any port or ports in between) to report on that activity, along with the emissions from the vessels used to transport those petroleum products. CSLC put together a Technical Advisory Group (TAG) to come up with a proper and appropriate form for making these reports as required by AB 2083. A form was established and approved, and although it went through a “public comment period” (as a new regulation), it has been determined that this form will be implemented not through the regulatory process (which is on “hold” as described earlier), but rather as an “administrative procedure” through TAG and CSLC approvals. Hence, this new form will most likely be put into use before year’s end, even though CSLC’s budget has been cut completely out for this activity, including the “half-person” that had been approved for working on the incoming forms.

(F) Update on U. S,. Army Corps of Engineers:

Jim Fields reported that the USACOE is working on the channel deepening project for POLA (eventually bringing the depth to –53’). The spoils are being used to expand the west end of the “shallow water habitat” area inside the San Pedro breakwater. A combination of hopper dredges, hydraulic dredges, and clam-shell dredges is being employed for this project.

(G) Update on California Dept. of Boating and Waterways:

Chairman Strong invited Mr. Ray Tsuneyoshi, Director of the CDB&W, to give a report on his agency. Mr. Tsuneyoshi reported that the CDB&W was under serious financial attack by the state government, which has systematically transferred over $27 million from the harbors and watercraft revolving funds each year, to the state’s general fund, over the past 10 years (over $270 million total!). As a result of these ongoing transfers of funds, CDB&W had to abandon over $180 million in “unfunded projects” this year, and cancelled over $9 million in “capital outlays” for construction projects in state parks. Also affected are grants issued by CDB&W for various approved projects and activities, which amounts to over $6 million in cutbacks. If the state continues to take money away from CDB&W at the current levels ($27 million annually), by the year 2006 the agency will be “broke” – in fact it will be $29 million “in the hole”. This is an extremely urgent situation, especially in light of the fact that by 2020, the CDB&W will need to address the rehabilitation and/or re-building of many infrastructure projects that were installed throughout the state over the past 25-30 years, which will require over $800 million to accomplish. Mr. Tsuneyoshi urged “all interested parties” to write to their state legislators, and to the governor, urging them to refrain from “raiding the coffers” at CDB&W in the future -- and to allow that vital agency to pro-actively address the safety needs of recreational boating; and to meet the infrastructure needs at our lakes, rivers, coastal waters, marinas, parklands, and harbors for the future.

ITEM III -- NEW BUSINESS:

(A) Sub Committee Reports:

(1) S/C # 1 -- Capt. John Strong, Chair: Meeting minutes covering previous sessions of this panel were distributed and discussed (October 1st and November 6th). Items addressed: Bunker Barges & Cargo Operations A/S; Review of Area Nautical Charts; VHF Radio Interference; Dredging and Construction Activities; HSP Review; Barges at Anchorages; and Anchorage Sites Review. Next meeting will be this afternoon at 1330 in the “Plumb Room” Room on the 5th floor.

(2) S/C # 2 – CAPT Bent Christiansen, Chair: This panel has been inactive, and will pick up their sessions next month. Focus is still on a pamphlet directed toward recreational boaters operating in and around the harbor. Work on this project is in the preliminary stages. There is a concern for funding to print up such a booklet.

(3) SOCAL-MTSAC Interface -- CAPT Jim Morgan, HSC Liaison: Regarding the interface and liaison with the SOCAL-MTSAC panel, CAPT Morgan asked CAPT Aschemeyer to report on the last meeting of that group. CAPT Aschemeyer reported that that session went well, indeed, and minutes from that meeting are posted on the MX-PortSource web site (www.mxsocal.org). Of particular note, the SOCAL-MTSAC panel combined the “Infrastructure” and “Port Competitiveness” committees into one new panel, called “Strategic Planning”. Also, a new chair for the Environmental Committee was appointed – CAPT Laura Kovary, who replaced Mr. Gary Gregory (who resigned earlier this year). The main “project” for SOCAL-MTSAC is the distribution and promotion of the “California MTS Infrastructure Needs Report” (which is also posted to the MX-PortSource web site). This is a detailed and comprehensive report produced by SOCAL-MTSAC, NORCAL-MTSAC, and CALMITSAC that outlines ALL of the major “MTS Infrastructure Needs” throughout California -- and it lists them in practical priority, as well as in near-term, mid-term, and long-term requirements. This report has “turned heads” in Washington and Sacramento, as well as at other ports and regions around the country, which now regard this document as a major advancement for the improvements and growth of California’s Marine Transportation System. CAPT Aschemeyer also pointed out that MARAD has issued a grant of $20,000 to MISNA (Maritime Information Service of North America) -- whose membership includes the various Marine Exchanges around the country -- for the purpose of subsidizing the efforts at promoting the MTS initiatives around the country, and for helping “jump start” MTS Advisory Councils at other port regions. Thus far, the only active MTS Advisory Councils are the three in California, and one for the South Atlantic Ports (called SAMTSO).

(B) Other New Business

(1) CAPT Ray Lyman announced that there would be a “mass casualty drill” over in Avalon Harbor (on Santa Catalina Island) tomorrow afternoon. The drill would involve one of the Catalina Express passenger ferries, with a simulated bomb attack causing massive injury and deaths. VHF-FM Channel 12 will be used extensively for this drill.

(2) CAPT Morgan reminded the LA/LB HSC that at the last meeting he distributed copies of a resolution passed by the Board of Harbor Commissioners. That resolution sought three possible scenarios for gaining a seat for ILWU Local 68 on the Committee. The Board of Harbor Commissioners requested that (1) a member of ILWU Local 68 (Los Angeles Port Pilots Assoc.) be appointed to fill the seat as “Los Angeles Pilot Organization Representative” at the earliest opportunity; and (2) that new legislation be created to provide for an additional seat on the LA/LB HSC, designated exclusively for a representative designated by ILWU Local 68 (Los Angeles Port Pilots Assoc.); and (3) that an Ad Hoc seat be added for ILWU Local 68. Subsequent to receiving correspondence from the OSPR Administrator, indicating that he would not take any action regarding their resolution, the BOHC adopted another resolution that directs CAPT Mike Rubino to resign his seat as representing the “Los Angeles Pilot Organization”, and that his replacement come only from a member of ILWU Local 68. Pursuant to the BOHC resolution, this matter is now under administrative review within the POLA organization. CAPT Aschemeyer reminded everyone that the LA/LB HSC has voted not once, not twice, but three times (in the super majority) NOT to create a “special, designated seat” for ILWU Local 68. The LA/LB HSC is an autonomous, state-appointed panel, and is entitled to express its will in such matters – which it has done rather demonstratively.

(3) CAPT Aschemeyer distributed a letter from the “Working Waterfront Association” (in New York), in which they seek finding for the “National HSC Information Web Site” that they have created at the request of the USCG two years ago. The current funding stream has run out, and they need about $285,000 to keep this web site “up and running” for the future. USCG Activities New York has agreed to give them $35,000 – and there is additional funding coming from other sources (including the New York Shipping Assoc. The LA/LB HSC is now listed on this web site. The committee will take this request under advisement, although since the panel has no revenue source for itself, it’s doubtful that the LA/LB HSC can provide any direct funding.

(4) CAPT Aschemeyer reported on several phone calls he had received from Interocean Co. in San Diego. That company has made several appearances before this committee, promoting its oil spill detection system (called the “Slick Sleuth System”) for application at LA/LB Harbor. Officials from Interocean have met with POLA and POLB staff to discuss possible funding for this project to go forward as a “demonstration project”. Also, it was their impression from reports coming out of the recent HSC “summit conference in Sacramento, that OSPR was “open” for possible financial support to install a “Slick Sleuth” system at LA/LB Harbor. This firm will probably make another appearance before this panel in February, seeking endorsement for its efforts.

(5) CAPT Aschemeyer expressed his concern over the plans by OSPR to “go out to bid” for the secretariat contract for LA/LB HSC next year. The OSPR Administrator announced this plan at the recent HSC summit meeting in Sacramento. In the past, these contracts were let on a “sole source” basis, and reflected the long-standing, professional, and unique relationship that exists between the MX and the HSC – not just here, but also at San Francisco Bay. He stated that this would be “a grave tragedy” for the relationship between the MX and the HSC to be challenged (and possibly terminated) in this way, by OSPR’s need to “chase after the lowest bid” in such an action. Chairman Strong stated that he hoped that it would not be a case of “low bid wins”, but that OSPR would consider other items in the bidding process such as experience, professionalism, and ability. But in any case, he indicated that the LA/LB HSC would support the Marine Exchange of Southern California in its quest to remain the contract secretariat for this panel.

ITEM IV -- QUESTIONS/COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC:

(NONE)

ITEM V -- MEETING SCHEDULE:

The next regular meeting for the LA/LB HSC will be held on the 4th of February, 2004, at the Port of Los Angeles Administration Building, in the 2nd floor auditorium, beginning at 9:30 a.m. (breakfast reception). Announcements and materials will be mailed out to all interested parties in mid-January.

ADJOURNMENT:

There being no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned by the Chairman at 11:33 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Capt. Manny Aschemeyer, Executive Secretary

HARBOR SAFETY COMMITTEE “LOCAL CG” BRIEFING

1 October through 30 November 2003

NOTABLE VESSEL INCIDENTS

Commercial vessel damage: The M/V CSCL HAMBURG lost approximately 35 cargo containers overboard with an additional 10 containers dangling over the side of the vessel on route to LA-LB. A COTP order was issued to anchor at outer anchorage for an assessment of the damage to the vessel and the safety of the vessel entering the harbor. Damaged containers were safely offloaded.

Cruise ship illness (21OCT03): The M/V MONARCH OF THE SEAS reported 37 cases of diarrhea to the CDC 4 hours prior to the vessel’s arrival (symptoms of the Norwalk virus). CDC allowed vessel to enter port.

Cruise ship illness (31OCT03): CDC LA Quarantine Station notified the CG that one passenger disembarked the vessel in LA on 31OCT03 with symptoms of norovirus, formerly called Norwalk-like virus.

Falling Containers (26NOV03): Three containers fell from the M/V ZIM NEW YORK while at berth 92. No injuries reported, containers placed on hold for structural damage. CG Investigations department investigated.

ALLISIONS/COLLISIONS/GROUNDINGS

Collision (30NOV03): A mariner was picked up by the M/V MONARCH OF THE SEAS after he was found lighting flares from his 7 ft skiff approximately 7-8 nm off Santa Catalina Island. The mariner claimed a vessel collided with his 54 ft S/V and caused it to sink. CG IO department investigated.

POLLUTION

Hydraulic fluid spill (30NOV03): While conducting dive operations off platform Holly the M/V AMERICAN PATRIOT suffered an hydraulic fluid loss to the diver’s hydraulic tools. A total of 45 gallons of fluid was lost in the water. Due to naturally seepage in the area it was difficult to determine whether the entire spill was recovered.

Stern tube oil leak (15OCT03): A COTP Order was issued for the M/V STAR FRASER to have pre-stagged boom in place and receipt of repairs from the classification society upon entering the port with an oil leak from the stern tube.

Paraffin Wax along shoreline (throughout the month of OCT03): Multiple sighting of paraffin wax were reported from Venice Beach to Newport Beach throughout the month of October. Due to the amount of wax on the beach during the initial report the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund was opened for cleanup operations. Subsequent sighting were minor in amount and local municipalities were contacted for cleanup within their jurisdiction.

Hydraulic fluid spill (17OCT03): Ten gallons of hydraulic fluid was released at Larson’s Boatyard on TI caused by a ruptured hydraulic line from a crane barge. Five gallons entered the water and cleanup was completed by the boatyard.

Oil leak (19NOV03): The M/V APL ALEXANDRITE reported a leak had occurred in the main line carrying fuel while conducting a routine transfer at sea. The fuel leak contaminated 3 cargo bays holding containers. No pollution at sea; however, upon entry into the port the vessel was required to provide a pollution prevention plan prior to offloading and decontamination of containers and vessel.

VARIOUS ITEMS OF INTEREST

Dredging LA Main Channel: There are four elements of this project underway. The construction of the Pier 300 expansion, construction of the South West Slip landfill, construction of the Cabrillo Shallow Water Habitat Extension and LA Main Channel dredging. The HR MORRIS is currently working dredge element D-209, cut-4 (West Basin) using a submerged pipeline from Berth 146 across to Berth 100, where it ties into a floating line to South West Slip Land Fill. The Dredge MORRIS will complete this element this friday 05/Dec. It will leave the this project area until August of 2004. The DREDGE FLORIDA Is currently working dredge element D-202, cut-3 and 4, east side of the LA Main Channel. The FLORIDA is also using submerged pipeline running from the dredge along the northwest dike of the Shallow Water Habitat up to the new Shallow Water Habitat Extension. The DREDGE FLORIDA also has placed submerged pipeline from Pier 400 Submerged Material Storage Site to the LA Main Channel where it intersects the Super Tanker channel. A survey has been completed on the submerged pipelines and electrical cables marking the elevation at the top of the pipe greater than charted depth at MLLW. The LA Deepening Contractors and Great Lakes Dredge Company send out daily notices to both Pilot Stations and the U.S. Coast Guard with chartlets showing the location of the dredges and equipment each day.

Pier 400 Phase II: This project is underway it involves the building of the piers on A and B faces (northwest corner). The Terminal Island LB 6 (LLNR 3142) has been temporarily removed for most of this phase. The pile driving will continue until May 2004.

Long Beach Pier T Demolition: Manson Construction and Connolly Pacific are removing Piers 1,2 and 3 in the Long Beach West Basin off of Pier T. This operation will be completed by October 2004.

Pier G Construction: Traylor Pacific has just completed the test pile program on the south face. It is unknown by this office when the next phase will start.

Pier J Construction: Manson Construction expects Pier J Construction to continue until end of December 2003. All of the water side pier construction has been completed.

LA Berth 100: The four cranes will stay. The operation date for the terminal is still unknown.

Long Beach Pier S: Construction of new piers on the north side of Pier S that was due to start in December of this year, has been shifted to the spring of 2004. The Environmental Impact Report has been completed.

LA Maritime Museum: A proposal has been submitted for a new pier at the Maritime Museum for the brigantine ships. The new pier face will not extend past the existing pier. It is unknown by this office when this project is to start. (soon)