Unpredictable river conditions pose significant risks to freight operations, including disruptions during transitional periods such as flooding or low water levels. These conditions can lead to sediment shifts and rapidly changing navigation channels, increasing the likelihood of accidents and delays. The economic impact is substantial, as the Mississippi River supports a large portion of the U.S. supply chain. Without proactive measures, the reliability of this critical transportation network could be compromised, affecting industries reliant on barge transport.