What do red colors, red lights, and even numbers mark in a channel?

Red colors, red lights, and even numbers are used to indicate the edge of the channel on your starboard (right) side as you enter from the open sea or a body of water. This is part of the U.S. Aids to Navigation System, which utilizes a color coding system to help boaters navigate safely. The convention is that red marks indicate the right side of a channel when traveling upstream or toward the origin of a navigable water system.

These navigational aids are crucial for ensuring safe passage through channels, as they help indicate where it is safe to navigate and where potential hazards may be present. By adhering to these visual cues, boaters can maintain a safe distance from obstacles and ensure they remain within the designated navigable areas.