Omaha area News, Information and Current Events on and off our Missouri River!

Omaha Area Boater Upper Missouri River Navigation Map

U.S Aids to Navigation System

The U.S Aids to Navigation System (ATONS) used used on the Western River System. This includes the Missouri River. The buoys and beacons in this system conform to the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) guidelines. They are referred to as the IALA-B system. In this system, there are LATERAL and NON-LATERAL markers:

LATERAL markers INDICATE the NAVIGABLE CHANNEL by their position, shape, coloring and numbering.

NON-LATERAL markers are INFORMATIONAL and REGULATORY markers.

To navigate safely using the lateral markers, you should pass between the RED and GREEN. Use the nautical saying, "Red Right Returning" as a reminder of the correct course when heading UPSTREAM. "Red Right Returning" refers to a navigation adage meaning to "Returning" from sea and heading inland CLICK on the above MAP to see an example.	CLICK on MAP

	Passing Daymark

Western Waterway Marking System

Passing daymark with Mile Marker

On the Western Rivers System, this daymark indicates the RIGHT SIDE of the channel as a boater heads UPSTREAM. The MILE MARKER number below the marker indicates that Missouri River boater is 73.5 miles from the river mouth.

DIAMOND-shaped crossing daymarks, RED or GREEN as appropriate, are used to indicate where the river channel CROSSES one bank to the other.

dayboards for Starboard Side

Navigation Rules... Traffic Laws Of The Waterways

Collisions can be easily prevented if every boat or personal watercraft (PWC) operator fulfills the three major responsibilities of an operator:

Practice good seamanship. It is the responsibility of every boat and PWC operator to take all necessary action to avoid a collision, taking into account any special circumstances due to weather, boat traffic, and limits of other boats. Such action should be taken in ample time to avoid a collision and at a safe distance from other boats.

Keep a sharp lookout. Failing to keep a proper lookout is the most common cause of collisions. Keep a close lookout at all times for other boats, navigational hazards and others involved in water activities.

Maintain a safe speed. Safe speed is the speed that insures you will have ample time to avoid a collision. Safe speed will vary depending on conditions such as wind, water conditions, visibility and surrounding boat traffic. Always reduce speed and navigate with extreme caution when visibility is restricted.