The Project

Developing the plan

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is the lead federal agency under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The ports of Longview, Kalama, Woodland and Vancouver in Washington and the Port of Portland in Oregon are the non-federal sponsors of the plan. As non-federal sponsors, the Washington ports are also responsible for actions that require compliance with the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).

The Corps and the sponsor ports, with input from the public and stakeholders, will determine the best management plan for placing dredged material and evaluate ways to reduce the need for dredging. The planning effort will consider the natural resources of the Lower Columbia River while keeping the region open for business. A well-maintained channel allows larger ships to efficiently carry more cargo, supports regional and local jobs, provides major and direct economic benefits, and maintains local and federal navigation investments.

For more information on the channel and the maintenance planning process, please contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Portland District office at 503-808-4510 or ColumbiaNavChannel@usace.army.mil.