GL: Talking to tows

[John Esch]

>>Those things towing barges are not called<<
>>towboats in our area<<

Fred,
    Those things in our areas (Inland Rivers) actually push the barges. 
Occasionally you will find a 2nd tow at the front of a group of barges 
pushed by a tow.  This lead barge is to help the load ( main towboat + 
barges) maneuver through tight spaces.  You may see this in the Joliet area 
and in the Beardstown area on the Illinois River.

John Esch

Fet-Esch,a 48' Chung Hwa Seamaster
Currently lying North Point Marina, Winthrop Harbor, IL
on Beautiful Lake Michigan/Wisconsin border
www.Fet-Esch.com