Update from Thebes

I ventured over to Thebes early this morning (Dec. 18) to check on the progress of blasting of the rock pinnacles. I saw activity, but no blasting.

Two vessels were scooping material from the river bottom near Grays Point, north of Thebes.

The action is visible from just off Highway 3 where the road runs above the river. Along here, the shoulder is extra wide, providing a place to park. Trees make it hard to see the river clearly, but it's a short walk through some weeds to reach a lower terrace that provides a better view.

Meanwhile, a dredging operation is underway south of Thebes, just barely visible from the riverfront near the railroad bridge.

The river just below the Thebes boat ramp is now dotted by even more exposed rock outcrops. These aren't a problem, since they lie outside the main channel -- but they provide a hint of what lurks below the surface.