Corps of Engineers' Dredging Plan Could Cost Southwest Washington Ports $85 Million

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' new dredging plan for the Columbia River may impose an $85 million financial obligation on four Lower Columbia ports. The plan, which includes the construction of seven confined aquatic placement structures, aims to manage dredge spoils effectively over the next 20 years. However, the ports are concerned about the significant upfront costs and their potential impact on regional economic development. The Corps expects to finalize the plan by mid-2026.

Published Mar 20, 2026

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to address dredging for the Columbia River, imposing an $85 million obligation on four Lower Columbia ports due to a classification of construction costs. The new plan includes seven confined aquatic placement structures to manage dredge spoils over the next 20 years, capable of holding 9.6 million cubic yards of material.

AI-curated by Theia

Currently, budget allocations for operations and maintenance total $108 million for the 2025 fiscal year. The ports express concern about the financial burden affecting future economic development. The Corps aims to finalize the plan by mid-2026, initiating the ports' new financial responsibilities.