In 1968, Congress authorized the $1.9 billion Red River Waterway Project to add five lock & dam complexes which straightened the Red River’s stream, stabilized its banks, eliminated flooding, and made year-round navigation possible. Completed in 1994, the lock & dams create a stair-step effect on the river, producing controllable pools and passageways for river traffic.

Accompanying bank stabilization work and other enhancements have created a navigation channel with a minimum depth of nine feet and a minimum width of 200 feet. Total lift through the five pool stages on the river is more than 140 feet, the equivalent of a 14-story building.

The locks and dams are operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who also supervise continuing bank stabilization work. A U.S. Coast Guard team stationed at the Colfax lock and dam site is responsible for Aids to Navigation along the river, including buoys and mile markers.

In addition to dramatically improving the river’s commercial viability, the lock and dam project has also resulted in vastly enhanced water quality and recreational opportunities. More than $40 million in local and federal funds have been spent along the river’s route to add such amenities as boat launches, picnic areas, campsites, RV parks and hiking trails. These and other complementary developments are giving rise to new businesses that serve the needs of this growing recreational and tourist market.