The Missouri Water Patrol has issued a temporary permit for several warning buoys near the 66-mile marker where a barge became beached on a shallow shoal.
The barge hauling a load of gravel got stuck on the south side of the channel after hitting the shallow shoal.
The barge has been removed, but left behind a pile of gravel it had to unload in order to break loose.
Boaters traveling near the 66-mile marker may want to keep an eye out for the warning buoys, according to the Water Patrol. The area was already shallow but with the added gravel, boaters could find themselves grounded if they aren’t careful.
The barge company is working with AmerenUE and will be removing the gravel dumped off the barge.
Until then, the Water Patrol wants the area marked to warn boaters. The buoys will have flashing warning lights. 
Contact this reporter at joycem@lakesunleader.com