Table of Contents
2025 Annual Convention Recap
The 2025 PNWA Annual Convention, held October 14–16, brought together nearly 160 members and partners from across the Northwest for an engaging and collaborative event. Despite challenges caused by the federal government shutdown and staff furloughs, PNWA successfully pivoted its agenda to feature dynamic discussions on navigation, energy, and infrastructure. Highlights included sessions on Next Generation Navigation Systems with David Evans and Associates, Alternative Port Calculator and Programmatic Permitting led by the Port of Seattle, Shipbuilding in the Northwest featuring Gunderson Marine, Diversified Marine and American Cruise Lines. The convention also featured timely updates from Northwest RiverPartners, WPPA, OPPA, and the Idaho Governor’s Office of Species Conservation, as well as the annual Inland Ports and Navigation Group (IPNG) meeting.
PNWA extends heartfelt thanks to all speakers, sponsors, and attendees whose participation and support made this year’s convention a success—reinforcing our shared commitment to a strong, sustainable, and connected maritime future.
2025 Annual Trustees Meeting
At the PNWA Board of Trustees Annual Meeting held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, during the Annual Convention in Vancouver, WA, trustees approved the 2025–2026 Budget as well as minor revisions to the dues structure (adjusting two dues categories for smaller ports). Due to PNWA’s strong financial position, PNWA is planning to hold event registration fees flat at previous years’ rates, and dues will not increase beyond the 2024 approved level (based on the adopted dues structure). The Board also approved updates to the association’s Policies and Projects and confirmed the Nominating Committee’s slate of officers for the coming year. PNWA congratulates Scott Corbitt of the Port of Lewiston on his new appointment to the Executive Committee and thanks all trustees for their continued leadership and engagement. Following the meeting, members joined staff for an open house at PNWA’s new Vancouver office to celebrate another successful year of collaboration and progress.
2025 PNWA Honors Reception
October 14, PNWA proudly recognized outstanding leadership and service across the region during its 2025 Annual Convention in Vancouver, WA, presenting the Walter H. Evans Memorial Award, Distinguished Service Awards, and Golden Anchor Awards. Commissioner Tom Kammerzell of the Port of Whitman County received the Walter H. Evans Memorial Award for his decades of public service, advocacy for the Columbia–Snake River System, and steadfast leadership within PNWA. The Distinguished Service Awards honored Laura Gurley (Port of Everett), Tabitha Reeder (Port of Kalama), Scott Corbitt (Port of Lewiston), Matt Harris (Washington State Potato Commission), and Richard Vincent (Port of Portland) for their exceptional contributions to PNWA’s mission and the maritime industry. The Golden Anchor Awards celebrated long-serving members, including Beth Coffey, Adam Fulton, Dan Stahl, Jack Burkman, Jean Ryckman, Jerry Klemm, John Akre, Julie Rawls, Randy Lewis, and Randy Sweet, for their lasting impact and years of dedication to the region’s waterways. “These honorees embody the leadership, collaboration, and commitment that define PNWA’s success,” said Executive Director Neil Maunu.
Read the full Press Release here.
Welcome New Member: Three D's
PNWA is pleased to welcome Three D’s Marine, Inc. as our newest member! Based in the Pacific Northwest, Three D’s Marine provides comprehensive marine and industrial services for vessel owners, operators, and facilities—helping ensure smooth operations and compliance with federal, state, and environmental regulations. With specialized equipment and a skilled team, the company supports both marine and landside operations, minimizing downtime and maintaining safety and efficiency. Their commitment to delivering cost-effective, reliable solutions makes them a valuable partner to the region’s maritime industry.
For more information, please contact Dustin Cunningham at DC@THREEDSMARINE.COM or website : Three D’s Marine
Port of Longview names new CEO, Ken Anderton
Port of Woodland Announces New Executive Director, Chris Herman
The Port of Woodland has announced Chris Herman as its new Executive Director following a nationwide search that drew over 220 applicants. Herman brings more than two decades of experience in supply chain operations, economic development, and transportation policy, including nine years with the Washington Public Ports Association, where he led statewide advocacy and education initiatives. He previously served with the Washington State Department of Transportation, overseeing freight rail planning and management of the Washington State Grain Train program. Commission President Bob Wile praised Herman’s leadership and expertise as “tremendous assets to the Port and the community we serve.” Herman expressed his enthusiasm for advancing the Port’s economic development goals and supporting family-wage jobs in Woodland.
Read the full Press Release Here
Remembering John Coyle
PNWA celebrates RiverFest
Each fall, as the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, Columbia Park in Kennewick, Washington, swells with businesses, community organizations and the public to celebrate our Federal Columbia River Power System and highlight the benefits of the Lower Snake River Dams to navigation, irrigation, recreation and energy. This year Megan McKibben, PNWA Government Relations Manager, and Leslie Druffel, Director of Outreach at the McGregor Company, teamed up to host a booth to educate folks about the importance of protecting the river system for navigational purposes. Thanks to the McGregor Company, kids enjoyed the opportunity to “grow their own garden,” by planting a seed in a plastic bag with a little water and a cotton ball, then taking it home to place in a window with sunlight to watch the seed grow into food. A big congratulations to the Pasco Chamber of Commerce for hosting yet another successful RiverFest!
Learn more here
Green Marine Call for Speakers
Green Marine is seeking speakers to share practical insights and innovations advancing the maritime industry’s green transition.
Green Marine invites members of the maritime community to submit presentation proposals on the issues addressed by its 15 performance indicators and on timely topics relevant to its participants, including ship owners, ports, the Seaway, terminals, and shipyards. In particular, we welcome case studies highlighting lessons learned from real-world projects undertaken or tested by Green Marine certified participants.
Deadline to submit a proposal is Friday, November 14, 2025. Click here to learn more.
GreenTECH Environmental Conference
June 9-11, 2026
Quebec City, QC
Legislator of the Year to U.S. Senator Merkley
PNWA proudly honored U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) as its 2025 Legislator of the Year in recognition of his steadfast advocacy for the Pacific Northwest’s ports, waterways, and economic vitality. A longtime champion for regional infrastructure and sustainable growth, Senator Merkley has led efforts to secure key Columbia River provisions in the Water Resources Development Act of 2024, press the U.S. GAO for a study on contaminated dredge material effects on navigation maintenance, and deliver millions in federal investments for Oregon’s ports from Coos Bay’s rail upgrades to the Astoria, Newport, and Portland waterfronts. His leadership has advanced clean energy innovation and environmental stewardship while strengthening the competitiveness of the region’s maritime network. “Senator Merkley’s leadership exemplifies the collaborative, solution-driven approach that strengthens our region,” said PNWA Executive Director Neil Maunu.
Read the full Press Release here.
FEMA Letter addressing NFIP EIS
PNWA recently submitted comments to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regarding its Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Implementation Plan for integrating the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) with the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in Oregon. In its letter, PNWA expressed concern that the proposed Implementation Plan could negatively impact port operations, planning, dredging, and economic development by creating inconsistent local regulations and unrealistic mitigation requirements. The association emphasized that the EIS underestimates the potential effects on ports and exceeds FEMA’s statutory authority under the National Flood Insurance Act. PNWA urged FEMA to adopt the No Action Alternative (Alternative 1) as the only reasonable and legally sound approach, noting that it would protect both the region’s environmental goals and its economic competitiveness.
Read the full Letter here.
IPNG Voice Concerns Over Preliminary Injunction
The Inland Ports and Navigation Group (IPNG) has voiced strong opposition to recent preliminary injunction motions filed by the National Wildlife Federation and the State of Oregon seeking increased spill operations and reservoir level changes at the eight Lower Snake and Columbia River dams. IPNG warned that such actions would severely disrupt navigation, freight movement, and agriculture—placing safety, commerce, and communities at risk. “This injunction is short-sighted; increasing spill comes at an incredibly steep cost to navigation, freight movement, agriculture, and the communities dependent on this river system,” said PNWA Executive Director Neil Maunu. Co-chair Patrick Harbison added, “We cannot afford risking safety to life, pitting fish against farmers or the climate against transportation.” IPNG reaffirmed its commitment to defending the 2020 Columbia River System Operations Biological Opinion and Record of Decision while continuing to advocate for collaborative, science-based solutions that balance fish recovery, clean energy, and safe, efficient river navigation.
Read the full Press Release here.
PNWA Participates in Clark County Transportation Alliance Roundtable
Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Authority Seeks Navigation Impact Info
As the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Authority (HRWSBA) seeks to move forward with replacement of the facility, the U.S. Coast Guard requires updated river user information. The HRWSBA is a member of PNWA and has requested assistance in sharing the Stakeholder Letter and Survey link with PNWA members.
Please assist the HRWSBA with gathering navigation impact data to provide an accurate account of current and future needs of vessels that use the Columbia River in the vicinity of the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge. This information will be needed as the HRWSBA pursues the required permits for bridge replacement.
Please send your updates no later than Friday, November 7th.
2nd Annual Marine Hwy 5 Roundtable
November 18, 2025
9:00 am – 4:00 pm
FREE to Attend: Registration Required
LaQuinta Inn, Tacoma, WA 98421
A premier event dedicated to professionals involved with tugs, barges, and short sea shipping, offering an exclusive platform for industry engagement and networking. Tug Operators, and Marine Transportation professionals will engage with us through speaking and panel discussions. Opportune networking event to meet marine shipping users and stakeholders.
For more information or contact MH5@portofpa.com
PNWA Attends OPPA Conference
The 2025 Oregon Public Ports Association (OPPA) Annual Conference was held in Astoria on September 25–26, bringing together port professionals, elected officials, and industry partners from across the state. Hosted by the Port of Astoria and OPPA, the event provided valuable opportunities for networking, education, and collaboration on issues vital to Oregon’s 23 ports, which serve as gateways for trade, recreation, and economic development. Conference sessions highlighted OPPA’s mission to promote effective management, legislative advocacy, and interagency communication in support of Oregon’s port system, which sustains thousands of family-wage jobs and plays a critical role in maintaining the state’s economic strength and quality of life.
PNWA Attends WPPA Environmental Seminar
Deputy Director of PNWA, Dena Horton, attended the Washington Public Ports Association (WPPA) Environmental Seminar held in Union, Washington. The conference was very well attended and included presentations on a wide range of topics. The presentation on federal regulations and legal updates included information on state interpretation of those federal regulations and state laws that apply. Other presentations included turning contamination into opportunity, uses of drone technology for port data gathering and management purposes, underwater noise assessment, environmental justice, lessons learned from the Mount St. Helens eruption, decarbonization analytical tools, clean building standards, learning about the alternative ports calculator and 10 year maintenance programmatic permit, and lessons learned about rethinking waste handling, energy consumption, and water usage from the Port Industrial Symbiosis system implemented in Denmark. It was a very successful event and a great opportunity to network with our colleagues at WPPA.
PNWA presents at COBALT for CRSOA
The 2025 Columbia Basin Leadership Training (COBALT) took place September 29–October 3 with the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Columbia River. COBALT once again provided U.S. Coast Guard personnel and emerging maritime professionals with a comprehensive introduction to the Columbia River maritime system through tours, presentations, and discussions with industry partners. Coordinated by the Columbia River Steamship Operators’ Association (CRSOA), the program fostered collaboration between the Coast Guard, ports, pilots, shippers, and other maritime stakeholders to strengthen safety, efficiency, and regional partnerships. PNWA and its members were proud to support this long-standing initiative, which continues to build understanding of the maritime system’s vital role in sustaining trade, transportation, and economic prosperity throughout the Columbia Basin.
Learn more here