GL: Subject: Illinois Electric Fish Barrier

[M S]

I'm not an electical expert by any means and I don't have a full grasp of how
the barrier works, but it sounds like the authorities don't either.
 
It seems like towing a steel boat thru with a steel boat is the equivilent of
inserting two electrodes and connecting them by a poor conductor (but still
conductive when wet). I think this is born out, but the description of
sparking between barges. I would think fiberglass being less conductive would
be safer.
 
Almost makes me hope for the day when a breeding population is found in the
chicago harbor and they can just mothball the electrodes (sarcasim intented).
 
Maybe next year after we close out the loop, we'll take the boat back over to
Eire, PA and have it hauled to the head of the Ohio River. If it's costing
$600 for a few hundred foot tow, for probably $1500 we could have it hauled
the 100 miles from Erie down to pitsburgh. Then just enjoy the downcurrent
ride and avoid the St. Louis to Kentucky Lake run.
 
Mike & Tammy
Valhalla II