Since the mid-1800s, Portland’s harbor has supported access to international trade, a strong industrial base and good paying local jobs. Although marine and industrial business on the waterfront continues to be a major economic engine for the region, not everyone understands the “why” and “how.”
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| This U.S. Coast Guard demonstration wowed attendees during the first series and, by popular demand, it is one of the repeat tours for the second series. (Photo: Steven Fritz) |
With the return of the “Portland Harbor: Behind the Scenes” series of free talks and tours, the Port of Portland and the Working Waterfront Coalition are partnering on educational and entertaining events that provide a unique and close-up view into the daily operations of Portland’s working harbor. Talks are held at the St. John’s Pub, and tours include a wide variety of waterfront businesses. For example, the previous series included a shipyard tour, U.S. Coast Guard demonstration and a barge launch, just to name a few.
The success of the first series drove the planning for a second. “Many of our tours in the last series proved popular, filling quickly and with long waiting lists, which was a good problem to have,” said Brooke Berglund, tour and outreach program manager. “The turnout was encouraging; feedback was positive; and it proved to be an effective, low-cost option to introduce people to the Port and the Portland Harbor in a fun and unique way.”
Updates on talks and tours are being posted on the Port website as they become available at www.portofportland.com. You can also become a “fan” of the series and find additional information about the series on Facebook by searching for “Portland Harbor.”
Related Links:
Upcoming Talks and Tours
Working Waterfront Facebook Page