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WMF Maritime Day
The Pacific Northwest Waterways Association (PNWA) was honored to participate in Washington Maritime Day 2026 in Olympia. Our Executive Director, Neil Maunu, joined a robust delegation of PNWA members and industry partners to ensure the voice of the maritime community resonated throughout the halls of the State Capitol. This annual event remains a cornerstone of our advocacy efforts, providing a critical platform to educate policymakers on the essential role our waterways play in the state’s economic health.
The day kicked off with an energized orientation session, setting the stage for a marathon of targeted legislative meetings. Throughout the afternoon, PNWA leadership and members met directly with lawmakers to discuss vital issues, including infrastructure funding, decarbonization initiatives, and the preservation of the Columbia-Snake River System. These face-to-face discussions are invaluable for bridging the gap between waterfront operations and legislative policy, ensuring that the maritime industry remains a top priority for Washington’s decision-makers.
The event concluded with a collaborative evening reception co-hosted by the Washington Public Ports Association (WPPA). This gathering offered a final opportunity for informal networking and relationship-building between maritime stakeholders and elected officials. We are grateful to everyone who joined us in Olympia to champion the industry that keeps Washington moving.
Discover more about our advocacy work: maritimefederation.com
Inland Logistics Hub Partners Congratulations
The Pacific Northwest Waterways Association (PNWA) is proud to celebrate a historic milestone for Washington’s trade economy. In a landmark ceremony, The Northwest Seaport Alliance, the Port of Benton, the Port of Pasco, and the Port of Walla Walla signed a formal Interlocal Agreement to develop an Inland Logistics Hub in the Tri-Cities. This strategic collaboration bridges the gap between coastal gateways and inland production centers, creating a unified corridor designed to move cargo more efficiently and sustainably.
This four-port partnership is a game-changer for the regional supply chain, focusing on strengthening infrastructure and expanding international trade opportunities. By leveraging the unique strengths of both deep-water and river ports, the initiative will drive job creation and enhance the competitiveness of Washington’s exports on the global stage. It is a shining example of how regional cooperation can solve complex logistical challenges and secure a more resilient economic future for the entire Pacific Northwest.
PNWA Participation in CSRS Oral Arguments
Late last year, the Inland Ports and Navigation Group (IPNG), as an intervenor-defendant in the case, filed its briefing with the U.S. District Court, and PNWA submitted a statement emphasizing the importance of “Collaboration Over Litigation.” IPNG also participated in the February 6 oral arguments concerning the future of Columbia and Snake River dam operations. Throughout the proceedings, a broad coalition of public power utilities, ports, navigation, irrigation, and other river-dependent, while continuing to pursue a collaborative, negotiated path forward. The coalition advocated for lawful, science-based solutions that support salmon recovery while protecting reliable, affordable, carbon-free hydropower and the river’s critical navigation and economic functions. Even as they engaged fully in the court process, coalition members maintained that lasting regional stability is best achieved through dialogue rather than litigation.
On February 6, 2026, U.S. District Judge Michael H. Simon heard nearly four hours of oral arguments on a request for a preliminary injunction that could change operations at eight federal dams on the Columbia and Snake Rivers, including increased spill and lower reservoir levels to aid juvenile salmon. Rather than rule immediately, Judge Simon said he was tentatively inclined to deny the federal government’s motion to dismiss and to grant, at least in part, the plaintiffs’ request for an injunction. He directed all parties—plaintiffs, federal agencies, and intervenors—to attempt mediation and submit a revised, joint proposed order by February 20. He plans to issue a decision on both the motion to dismiss and the preliminary injunction on February 23, with any order expected to take effect beginning with spring spill on March 1. Judge Simon urged compromise, signaling he would likely choose between the parties’ positions rather than craft a middle ground, while emphasizing the need to balance fish protections with the practical needs of power, navigation, and agriculture.
Lower Columbia Solutions Group Gathers for Update
On January 27, the Lower Columbia Solutions Group convened with representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), National Park Service, Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Coast Guard, Washington State Department of Ecology and Department of Natural Resources, and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Environmental Quality, Department of State Lands, Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, Department of Land Conservation and Development, the Ports of Astoria, Portland, and PNWA staff, Clatsop County, Pacific Conservation District, Sea Grant, Columbia River Estuary Study Task Force, Lower Columbia River Estuary Partnership, and consultant, Moffat Nichol also participated.
Julia Keiter, Mouth of the Columbia River Project Manager for the Portland District of the Corps provided a presentation on the dredging and placement in 2025. More material (19%) had to be taken to the deep-water site because the in-water sites were nearing capacity. Modeling shows the sediment is disbursed along the shoreline. Of note, was the low snow pack which could lead to low flows and higher shoaling. Additional nearshore placement sites will be a topic for future discussions. An additional presentation on the Baker Bay pile dikes and USCG projects and discussion of the Clatsop County Goal Exemption for the 20 year dredge material management plan occurred too.
The USGS noted that sand is now considered a critical mineral and is used for reducing coastal erosion. USGS provided an overview of different sediment placement options and noted that dynamic revetment efforts in some areas are starting to unravel and there is concern about the potential for a breach. Dynamic revetment may still be appropriate for some locations.
The Pacific Conservation District would like to utilize material dredged from the Port of Chinook area to shore up eroding shoreline and also to create habitat and marsh area. The group discussed monitoring, eel grass, drone surveys, etc. The 30% design is anticipated in April 2027 and will make a decision on whether or not to proceed then.
A discussion occurred about future Lower Columbia Solutions Group meetings, agendas, facilitation, and purpose in discussing and seeking solutions, information, and ensuring all stakeholders are able to participate in sediment management at the Mouth of the Columbia River and estuary.
Coast Guard Approves Clearance for I-5 Bridge Replacement
On Thursday, January 15, 2026, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D, WA-3) sent a letter to the Commander of the Northwest District of the U.S. Coast Guard urging the approval of a fixed span replacement of the I-5 Bridge. To read the press statement, click here.
Then on Friday, January 16, Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) announced the decision by the U.S. Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Kevin Lunday to approve the revised preliminary navigation clearance determination (PNCD) for the I-5 Bridge Replacement project from 178 feet to 116 feet of navigation clearance. The PNCD will allow the bridge to be a fixed span design rather than a movable span saving millions of dollars, preventing congestion from bridge lifts, and will meet the majority of navigation needs.
Since 2021, PNWA Deputy Director Dena Horton has participated in the I-5 Bridge Replacement Program Citizen Advisory Group (CAG) on behalf of river users/multimodal freight users. In December 2025, PNWA submitted a letter to the Coast Guard during the public comment period on the Navigation Impact Report supporting the 116 feet of navigation clearance as long as navigation impacts are mitigated. Several other PNWA members submitted letters too.
The PNCD is not a permit. The IBR Program will now complete the final bridge design, environmental documentation, and update the cost estimate for the project. Once the final bridge permit application is submitted, the Coast Guard bridge permit decision will be made. It is hoped the initial construction phase of the new I-5 Bridge can begin later this year.
More information can be found on the IBR website.
To read the Coast Guard PNCD, click here.
PNWA Congratulates Anthony Peña on Promotion
PNWA congratulates Anthony Peña on his promotion to Vice President of Policy and Communications at the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG). Anthony joined NAWG in March 2025 as Policy Manager and has been instrumental in advancing policy priorities for U.S. wheat farmers. In his new role, he will lead NAWG’s policy and communications strategy.
Before joining NAWG, Anthony served as Government Relations Manager at PNWA and previously worked for U.S. Senator Patty Murray. A native of Vancouver, Washington, he is an Eastern Washington University graduate. PNWA applauds Anthony’s leadership and looks forward to his continued success in advocating for farmers and rural communities.
Mission to Washington April 20-23, 2026
The 2026 Pacific Northwest Waterways Association Mission to Washington will bring members to Washington, D.C. for direct engagement with lawmakers, including two full days on Capitol Hill meeting with the Northwest Congressional delegation to advance regional priorities.
This year’s Mission features a new partnership with the National Waterways Conference, offering a full day of high-level speakers and national industry perspectives, plus the signature Taste the Northwest Reception celebrating Pacific Northwest foods and agricultural products with members of Congress and their staff.
Registration is now open, and we encourage members to register and attend. Space is limited, and the hotel traditionally books up early and sells out. We look forward to seeing you in Washington, D.C., and encourage you to register early to secure your spot and avoid missing this opportunity.
BUILD 2026 Grant Resources
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has published the FY 2026 BUILD Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), with applications due February 24, 2026.
Although the live BUILD webinar series has concluded, recordings remain available and are a helpful resource for ports considering an application. The webinars provide direct guidance from USDOT on the application process, and include downloadable slide decks for reference.
The BUILD program supports surface transportation infrastructure projects with significant local or regional impact and allows flexibility for multi-modal and multi-jurisdictional projects—making it particularly relevant for ports and maritime-related sponsors.
View webinar recordings: https://www.transportation.gov/BUILDgrants/webinars
Washington Trust for Historic Preservation – CPARC Grant Opportunity
The Washington Trust for Historic Preservation is a nonprofit organization that partners with communities to preserve, share, and shape the future of historic places throughout Washington State.
Grant Application Assistance
If you were unable to attend one of the virtual informational sessions earlier this month regarding the Coastal Preservation & Adaptation for Rural Communities (CPARC) Grant Program, a recording is now available on the Washington Trust’s website. Questions may be directed to grants@preservewa.org.
Application Deadline
Applications for the CPARC Grant Program are due Sunday, February 22, 2026, by 11:59 p.m.
The CPARC Program is a one-time grant opportunity that supports historic buildings and districts in rural communities seeking to undertake renovations or adaptations to address coastal flooding risks. Funded through the National Park Service’s Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grant Program, CPARC will award approximately $650,000 in total funding through a competitive process, with a maximum award of $150,000 per project.
Visit the Washington Trust’s website to review eligibility, program guidelines, and frequently asked questions.
Apply here: https://preservewa.org/programs/grants/cparc/
Port of Grays Harbor Celebrates 115 Years
On February 10, in a packed room at the Satsop Business Park, the Port of Grays Harbor celebrated its 115th anniversary, being awarded the Washington Public Ports Association (WPPA) Port of the Year, and the annual Port of Grays Harbor Business Report. PNWA staff attended the event and enjoyed John Hughes’ colorful retelling of the Port of Grays Harbor’s history and former commissions and staff. Several port staff and port customers provided updates on recent investments, new infrastructure, and future growth. Congratulations to the Port of Grays Harbor!
NXTClean Fuels Celebrates next steps
PNWA congratulates NXTClean Fuels on Governor Tina Kotek’s Dec. 30, 2025 endorsement of the Port Westward renewable fuels project, urging the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide full and timely consideration. The Governor cited the project’s $3 billion investment and projected benefits, including 3,000+ union construction jobs and 240 permanent positions, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel production, and restoration of more than 470 acres of wetlands. PNWA also attended NXTClean’s Feb. 10 celebration and will share updates as the federal process advances.
Learn more at NXTClean
Peter Friedmann Headlines Luncheon
The Maritime Commerce Club (MCC) and the Columbia River Customs & Forwarders Association (CRCBFA) welcomed Peter Friedmann, Executive Director of the Agriculture Transportation Coalition, as the featured speaker at the January 28 luncheon event and provide an update on the status of maritime issues and Washington, DC. As a longtime lawyer in Washington, DC, he advises several trade groups on a number of issues including trade policy, supply chains, freight movement and transport. PNWA staff attended the event along with several PNWA members.
Peter highlighted that there is more inbound and outbound cargo going through Canada. He noted that China instituted retaliatory measures against the U.S. tariffs and reduced dependence on U.S. soybeans, apples, lumber, etc. Now, new supply chains have been established to avoid tariffs and more countries are getting things from other sources instead of the U.S., particularly Brazil. He noted that Chinese control of terminals on both sides of the Panama Canal is problematic. Unfortunately, the U.S. Midwest farmers are suffering as a result of the current tariffs and resulting trade impacts.
Peter also made some predictions. He believes the U.S. Supreme Court will most likely rule that the Trump Administration tariffs are not legal. However, they may provide some language that allows for some small exceptions or loopholes. He noted the Supreme Court will likely support licensing actions by the President, but not the tariffs or fees to generate revenue. However, trying to use licensing to replace revenues from tariffs is a good way to prevent trade and goods from coming into the country. Peter stated that if tariffs are removed, then goods could be more affordable which could help with consequential midterm elections on November 3rd.
Other predictions included:
– Rare earth minerals will continue to be sought by the U.S. and others.
– The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) is not likely to return.
– More countries will start shifting their supply chains to other countries.
– The bulk of FY26 appropriations bills are likely to pass and Congress will argue over ICE tactics.
Port of Skagit Recognition and Flood Response Leadership
PNWA commends the Port of Skagit for its swift, steady, and effective leadership during the December 2025 flood emergency. As conditions rapidly escalated, the Port stepped up as a critical hub for regional response efforts, ensuring that essential infrastructure and logistics remained available when the community needed them most. The Port hosted 300 National Guard members at Skagit Regional Airport, supported Search & Rescue and other emergency response teams, and provided materials for sandbagging efforts.
The Port also coordinated the relocation of more than 2,000 vehicles to higher ground and partnered with volunteers to establish an animal feed and hay distribution site for affected residents. Executive Director Sara Young credited her team’s professionalism, coordination, and dedication throughout the crisis, and several staff members were recognized for exemplary service and safety. The Port of Skagit’s actions exemplified the vital role ports play in community resilience and emergency response across the region.
LEARN MORE: Port of Skagit
IMX 2026 in Nashville
Join the Conversation at IMX 2026 in Nashville
The Inland Marine Expo (IMX) is heading to Nashville from May 27–29, 2026, bringing together transportation and logistics leaders from across America’s waterways, lakes, and coasts. This annual event is a prime opportunity to connect with industry peers, explore new innovations, and discuss the future of marine commerce.
PNWA is excited to share that the IMX team is currently seeking education proposals for the event. While the selection process begins on February 19, there is still time to submit your ideas, and specific panelist details do not need to be finalized until mid-April.
If you are interested in attending, you can take advantage of a special $90 discount on registration by using the code SO90PNWA. For more information on submitting a proposal, booking your hotel, or registering for the expo, please visit the official IMX website. We encourage our members to participate and ensure the Pacific Northwest’s voice is represented in these vital industry discussions.