Columbia River Dredging Project Gains Federal Approval
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has granted environmental approval for a significant dredging project in the Columbia River, aimed at enhancing shipping capabilities near the Port of Kalama and expanding Longview’s turning basin. This decision comes despite concerns over potential harm to endangered salmon species. With this approval, the project now requires Congressional endorsement and subsequent funding to move forward.
Project Details and Environmental Concerns
The dredging initiative will create a 1,000-foot-wide deep-water turnaround in the Columbia River, facilitating the passage of larger grain and bulk cargo ships. This development is crucial for reducing congestion on the federally-designated marine highway, which is vital for the profitability of bulk export operations. Port officials have expressed optimism, stating that the federal investment will bolster the region’s export capabilities.
Dan Polacek, communications lead for the Port of Kalama, emphasized the project’s benefits, stating, “Once completed, the project will reduce navigational congestion and inefficiencies while improving safety and economic benefits for ports, shippers, and communities throughout the Lower Columbia region.” The environmental review, however, highlighted that while the project would adversely affect several endangered fish species, including salmon and sturgeon, it would not jeopardize their continued existence.
The proposed turning basin will extend approximately half the width of the river and deepen the waterway to 43 feet. Currently, the river varies in depth from knee-deep near the shore to over 30 feet in the shipping channel. The Corps previously granted an economic greenlight for the project, estimating it would generate around $7.3 million annually while incurring maintenance costs of about $2.3 million.
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Funding and Future Steps
The total estimated cost for the project is $21.9 million, with the ports responsible for approximately $5.5 million and the federal government covering the remaining $16.4 million. Congressional approval is anticipated this year as part of a potential Water Resource Development Act, which would authorize the Army Corps to proceed with the project. Following this, Congress must allocate funding before construction can commence.
In January, Congress allocated $1.6 million for preconstruction engineering and design work related to the basins. This funding arrives shortly after Nutrien, a Canadian agricultural giant, identified Longview as its preferred site for a substantial fertilizer export terminal, valued between $500 million and $1 billion. Despite opposition from Canadian authorities urging the company to establish the facility in Canada, Nutrien remains focused on Longview, underscoring the strategic importance of the region for future export operations.
