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| Container barging between upriver ports and Portland is a cost effective, fuel efficient and environmentally friendly means of moving cargo. |
At two upcoming upriver events, topics of discussion will include new services, pending developments and river navigation as Port of Portland officials hit the road to meet with customers in their own backyards. Invitations will soon be sent for two customer receptions – Clarkston on Oct. 6, and Boardman on Oct. 7.
After holding the events for 25 years, Port leaders made the tough decision in 2009 to temporarily suspend its regular customer reception events due to the economic downturn. In years past, stops have also included Pasco and Boise. The events have provided an opportunity for marine marketing staff, commissioners, steamship lines and transportation officials to travel to the customers and keep lines of communication open.
There are many partnerships established throughout the Pacific Northwest and along the Columbia/Snake river system that affect the Port’s success. The two-way communication promoted by these events is invaluable. Beyond the “State of the Port” type of address given during the receptions, there are ample opportunities to ask questions and discuss items of mutual significance.
Some new faces will be attending this year as representatives from International Container Terminal Services, Inc., and Westwood Shipping Lines have been invited to attend. Both companies could be instrumental in helping upriver customers get their exports to market successfully.
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Container Barging