I. Table of Abbreviations
Table of Contents
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
COTP Captain of the port Sector Ohio Valley
DHS Department of Homeland Security
FR Federal Register
MM Mile Marker
NPRM Notice of proposed rulemaking
§ Section
U.S.C. United States Code
II. Background, Purpose, and Legal Basis
An organization notified the Coast Guard that it will be conducting a marine event from 6 a.m. on October 8,2025,through 3 a.m. on October 13, 2025. The marine event is a national party of the culture of America’s river cities. The event will include boat races, parades, cruises and fireworks on the Ohio River from MM 466 to MM 475, mid-channel near Cincinnati, OH. Non-participating vessels will be able to transit the area when the river is reopened after each race, parade, cruise and fireworks display.
the purpose of this rulemaking is to ensure the safety of vessels and the navigable waters within MM 466 to MM 475 of the Ohio River and MM 0.0 to 0.3 of the Licking River before, during, and after the scheduled event. The Coast Guard is proposing this rulemaking under authority in 46 U.S.C. 70041.
III. Discussion of Proposed Rule
The COTP is proposing to establish a special local regulation from 6 a.m. on October 8, 2025, through 3 a.m. on October 13,2025. The special local regulation would cover all navigable waters within MM 466 to MM 475 of the Ohio River and MM 0.0 to 0.3 of the Licking River.No vessel shall anchor, block, loiter in, or impede the through transit of participants or official patrol vessels in the regulated area during effective dates and times, unless cleared for such entry by or through an official patrol vessel. The COTP will provide advanced notice of the specific dates and times during which these regulations will be
Regulatory Analysis and Impacts
B. Collection of Information
This proposed rule would not call for a new collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520).
C. Federalism and Indian Tribal governments
A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132 (Federalism), if it has a ample direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the National Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. We have analyzed this proposed rule under that Order and have determined that it is consistent with the fundamental federalism principles and preemption requirements described in Executive Order 13132.
Also, this proposed rule does not have tribal implications under Executive Order 13175 (Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments) as it would not have a substantial direct effect on one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. If you believe this proposed rule has implications for federalism or Indian tribes, please call or email the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section.
D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538) requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 (adjusted for inflation) or more in any one year. Though this proposed rule would not result in such an expenditure, we do discuss the potential effects of this proposed rule elsewhere in this preamble.
E. Surroundings
We have analyzed this proposed rule under Department of Homeland Security Directive 023-01,
This document outlines how to access and comment on a proposed rule published by the Coast Guard. Here’s a breakdown of how to get involved:
Accessing the Proposed Rule & Supporting Documents
The complete proposed rule and related materials are available electronically via the Federal Register and the U.S. Coast Guard’s online docket.
* Federal Register: you can find the proposed rule on the Federal Register website (https://www.federalregister.gov). Search using the document number or keywords.
* Coast Guard Docket: To access the official docket, visit https://www.regulations.gov. Search for the docket number specified in the rule.
Within the docket, locate “Supporting & Related Material” to view documents referenced in the proposed rule.
Submitting Your Comments
Public comments are crucial to the rulemaking process. Here’s how to submit yours:
* Online: The preferred method is to submit comments electronically through https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions on the website.
* Email or Mail: If you require alternate instructions due to accessibility concerns, refer to the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section of the proposed rule for contact details.
Staying Informed
* Email Alerts: Subscribe to email notifications on the docket page to receive updates on comments posted or when the final rule is published. Look for the “Subscribe” option.
* Frequently Asked Questions: Consult the Frequently Asked Questions web page for additional guidance.
Privacy Considerations
* Anonymous Comments: The Coast Guard accepts anonymous comments.
* Public disclosure: Any personal information included with your comments will be publicly posted alongside your submission.
* privacy Notice: For detailed information regarding privacy and submissions, refer to DHS’s eRulemaking System of Records notice (85 FR 14226, March 11, 2020).
Subjects Covered
This proposed rule addresses topics related to:
* Marine safety
* Navigation (water)
* Reporting and recordkeeping requirements
* Waterways
The Coast Guard is proposing amendments to Title 33 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 100, as detailed in the preamble.
Captain R.L. Preston: Captain of the Port Sector Ohio Valley
Captain R.L. Preston serves as the Captain of the Port (COTP) for Sector Ohio Valley, a critical role within the U.S. Coast Guard responsible for the safety and security of waterways within a defined geographic area. This profile details the responsibilities of the COTP and provides information about Captain Preston’s leadership within this vital sector.
Understanding the Role of Captain of the Port
The Captain of the Port is a U.S. Coast Guard designation with meaningful authority over maritime operations and security. COTPs are responsible for enforcing maritime law,protecting the marine environment,and ensuring the safe and efficient movement of commerce on navigable waters. Their jurisdiction extends to ports, waterways, and facilities within their assigned sector. The COTP functions as the Federal On-Scene Coordinator for pollution response,overseeing efforts to mitigate oil and hazardous material spills. They also play a key role in security planning and implementation, working with local, state, and federal agencies to prevent and respond to threats.
Key Responsibilities of a COTP
- port Security: Implementing and enforcing security measures to protect critical infrastructure and vessels.
- Navigation Safety: Ensuring safe navigation through waterway management, aids to navigation, and enforcement of navigation rules.
- Marine Environmental Protection: Responding to pollution incidents and enforcing regulations to protect the marine environment. Learn more about Marine Environmental Response
- Search and Rescue: Coordinating search and rescue operations within their area of responsibility.
- Incident Management: Leading the response to maritime incidents, including accidents, security threats, and natural disasters.
- Regulated Activities: Managing and permitting regulated activities on navigable waters.
captain R.L. Preston – Sector Ohio Valley
Captain R.L.Preston currently leads Sector Ohio Valley as the Captain of the Port. Sector Ohio Valley’s area of responsibility encompasses approximately 323 miles of the Ohio River, 183 miles of the Kanawha River, and 133 miles of the Big Sandy River, traversing portions of Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Sector Ohio Valley USCG
As Captain of the Port, Captain Preston oversees all Coast Guard missions within this sector, including search and rescue, law enforcement, environmental protection, and port security. The sector’s units work to ensure the safety and security of the waterways, protect the environment, and facilitate the efficient flow of commerce. Captain Preston is responsible for coordinating these efforts and representing the Coast Guard in interactions with stakeholders, including industry, government agencies, and the public.
Sector Ohio Valley’s importance
The ohio River system is a vital transportation artery for the nation, carrying significant amounts of cargo, including coal, grain, and chemicals. Sector Ohio Valley plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe and reliable movement of this commerce, supporting the regional and national economy. The sector also manages recreational boating activity and responds to emergencies impacting the waterways and surrounding communities.
Key Takeaways
- Captain R.L. Preston is the Captain of the Port for Sector Ohio Valley, U.S. Coast Guard.
- The COTP is a critical role responsible for maritime safety, security, and environmental protection.
- Sector Ohio Valley covers a significant portion of the Ohio river system and surrounding waterways.
- The sector’s work is vital for commerce,recreation,and the overall well-being of the region.
the U.S.Coast Guard’s Sector Ohio Valley, under the leadership of Captain Preston, continues to adapt to evolving challenges and maintain its commitment to safeguarding the waterways and protecting the interests of the nation. Ongoing efforts focus on enhancing security measures, improving response capabilities, and fostering strong partnerships with stakeholders to ensure a safe, secure, and prosperous maritime environment.