The focus of this report is to investigate whether a towboat would be able meet damaged stability requirements. In order to evaluate what type of damage stability requirements could be considered, two damage stability criteria were selected for this investigation: Offshore Supply Vessel and Passenger Vessel Damage Criteria. Two vessels are then evaluated using General Hydrostatic Software (GHS) to find the maximum allowable vertical center of gravity allowed by each set of criteria. These values are then compared to the vessels’ operating conditions to show if the vessels would currently be able to operate. Ultimately it is found that the extent of damage of the criteria is the greatest limiting factor for this vessel type. Suggestions are made regarding the necessary changes to the boats’ general arrangements and loading conditions in order to meet the damaged stability requirements.

There is little published literature on the health and nutrition status of inland river towboat crewmen. The purpose of the study was to better understand how life on the towboat affects health status, the crews' perceived benefits and barriers to good health, specifically eating practices and physical activity, and motivation to meet U.S.C.G. physical and BMI guidelines. The study utilized a cross-sectional design to explore relationships among variables utilizing a survey and body composition measurements. One hundred ninety-four crewmen participated. Findings indicate crewmen are at increased risk of chronic disease related to anthropometric measurements, lack of aerobic activity, and unhealthy eating practices. Surprisingly, though, men indicated they like healthy foods and would eat them if served. Therefore, men are not as opposed to menu changes as originally thought. Additionally, the towboat environment must be more supportive of healthy behaviors to promote change. Furthermore, given the towboat culture and tradition, a successful intervention must be based on an ecological approach, addressing individual-level, socio-cultural and environmental-level influences.