On the Great Lakes, the term "controlling depth" means... - USCG Deck General

On the Great Lakes, the term "controlling depth" means the _______________.

A distance in units of the chart (feet, meters or fathoms) from the reference datum to the bottom

B minimum amount of tail water available behind a dam

C least depth within the limits of the channel which restricts the navigation

D designed dredging depth of a channel constructed by the Corps. of Engineers

AI Explanation

The correct answer is C) the least depth within the limits of the channel which restricts the navigation. The term "controlling depth" refers to the shallowest depth within a navigable waterway that limits the draft or maximum depth of vessels that can safely transit the area. This is the critical factor in determining the maximum size and load capacity of ships that can navigate a particular channel or body of water. The other answer choices do not accurately capture the definition of controlling depth as it applies to maritime navigation on the Great Lakes.

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Question 49 Deck General

On the Great Lakes, the term "controlling depth" means the _______________.

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