BAY SPRINGS

• USYIN
• Latitude: 34.5392
• Longitude: -88.3436
• Inland, USA
• Marina in US

Location: US

Bay Springs is part of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway system, a significant navigational channel in the southeastern United States. The waterway links the Tennessee River to the Tombigbee River, providing an alternative route to the Gulf of Mexico, and Bay Springs is strategically important within this system.

Bay Springs Description:

• Location: Bay Springs is situated in Mississippi, near the small town of Dennis. It lies within Tishomingo County and is part of the wider Bay Springs Lake area.
• Lake: Bay Springs Lake is a man-made reservoir created by the Bay Springs Lock and Dam, which is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Specifications and Features:

1. Lock and Dam:

   • Bay Springs Lock:
     • Chamber Dimensions: Roughly 110 feet wide and 600 feet long.
     • Lift: Approximately 84 feet, making it one of the highest single-lift locks east of the Mississippi River.
   • Dam:
     • Built for flood control, navigation, and recreation.
     • Helps maintain a consistent water level for navigation.

2. Navigational Depth:

   • The channel typically maintains a depth of around 9 feet, suitable for commercial barge traffic and recreational vessels.

3. Recreation:

   • Bay Springs Lake offers various recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, camping, and hiking.
   • Surrounding areas include multiple public use areas, campgrounds, and recreational facilities.

4. Commercial Use:

   • The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, including Bay Springs, supports commercial shipping. Common cargo includes coal, timber, grain, steel, and other bulk commodities.
   • Navigational aids are present to assist in the safe passage of vessels.

5. Environmental and Ecological Aspects:

   • The waterway and the surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife, and there are initiatives to maintain and protect the ecological balance.
   • Water quality and habitat conservation are managed by several agencies, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local environmental organizations.

Importance:

Bay Springs plays a crucial role in regional commerce by providing an efficient and cost-effective route for shipping goods. Additionally, it contributes to the local economy through tourism and recreational activities.

Connections:

• Tennessee River: Through the waterway system, vessels can travel north to the Tennessee River, providing further access to the Ohio River and the Mississippi River.
• Gulf of Mexico: Southbound vessels can reach the Gulf of Mexico via the Tombigbee River, significantly boosting trade and transportation efficiency.

In summary, Bay Springs is a vital component of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway system, supporting both commercial and recreational activities. The lock and dam infrastructure, depth specifications, and various facilities contribute to its role as a key navigational and recreational hub in the region.