Local leaders discuss continuing economic development of the Ouachita River

Local leaders are talking about the economic development of the Ouachita River this week. That's the theme for the Ouachita River Valley Association's conference from August 29-30.

John Stringer from ORVA says emergency repairs to the Columbia Lock and Dam have impacted the development. The repairs, which started in July, forced the Army Corps of Engineers to lower the river level by three feet. Since then, boat ramps have been closed, and barge access has been blocked. He says the Army Corps of Engineers is expected to give an update on the repairs during the conference. Right now, Stringer believes the construction will finish in December.

The Ouachita River Valley Association says funding from Washington D.C. is key to maintaining the river.

This year's keynote speaker is Congressman Ralph Abraham.

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