Waterway Guide Media attended the 2022 AIWA conference to assess current conditions of America's Marine Highways and participate in discussions about the future of the resources. The Intracoastal Waterways from Massachusetts to Texas were highlighted at the meeting.  

On November 16-17, 2022, over 60 stakeholders of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW), New Jersey Intracoastal Waterway (NJIWW), and Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW) gathered in Norfolk, Virginia to discuss the management of these vital resources.  Participants included representatives of federal agencies who are responsible for managing the waterway along with commercial, recreational, and state and local interests. Highlights of the event were:

- A State of the Waterway Update from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers- North and South Atlantic Division, and Corps Districts along the Eastern Seaboard

- Presentations from our federal partners at the Maritime Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation, and National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration.

- A View from Washington, D.C. from the National Waterways Conference and BoatUS 

- Panel discussions on Offshore Wind Development along the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern coasts

- American Cruise Line's expansion and operations in U.S. coastal waters

Waterway Guide's editor-in-chief Ed Tillett and contributing editor Bob Sherer (aka Bob423) presented a topic of particular interest specific to recreational boating and how this community is assisting with solutions for understanding the natural dynamics of the waterways. Ed set the stage on the topic "Utilizing input from the recreational boating community to better manage the AIWW" and Bob walked participants through specific cases where we have "moved the AIWW" and are now utilizing naturally occurring channels to reduce dredging needs. This is an exciting direction where the AIWA is looking forward to working more closely with all stakeholders in assessing the options for enhanced management of the waterways.

We are thankful for all who attended and participated through their presentations and active Q&A. Additional information on federal funding is pending, but a good news takeaway is that our work is making a difference as demonstrated through federal dredging money investments for the waterway. Projects are scheduled or underway for every state along the AIWW.  Stay tuned for more information and all presentations will be posted on the AIWA annual meeting website by the end of the month.

Visit AIWA online. Memberships are welcome and encouraged.