I'm camped out off Mapple Island a few miles away from downtown St L.ouis. It has been a challenging few days due to the heat but Im making due. This morning the Illinois River joined to amplify the current. Now through the Mel Price Lock and Dam 26, I can say goodbye to these Corps of Engineer stop signs. Tomorrow morning I will pass the confluence of the Missouri River then portage around the Chain of Rocks low water dam, a 200ft carry. After this, it becomes a dam-free river.. It feels more powerful and the current and waves pack a punch if not paying attention. I'm looking forward to getting through the "cancer alley" and past the city.