VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Port of Vancouver USA kicks off its annual Lecture Series this month with fascinating presentations by Columbia River navigators. Lectures are free and open to the public, and will be held at the Warehouse ’23 Event Space, 100 Columbia Street, Vancouver.

“Awful and Magnificent Grandeur” – Navigating the Columbia Bar with the Columbia River Bar Pilots
March 20, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Capt. Dan Jordan has been piloting large ships across the Columbia River Bar for 14 years. During his March 20 lecture, Capt. Jordan will describe how unique conditions at the mouth of the Columbia River make it one of the most challenging navigated stretches of water in the world. He will also share the fascinating world of Bar Pilots, whose efforts help ensure international access to Pacific Northwest ports, which move about 40 million tons of cargo valued at $23 billion each year.

From Farm to Table and the World – Tugs and Barges, Workhorses of the Columbia-Snake-Willamette River System
April 3, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
The Columbia-Snake-Willamette River System is our region’s trade lifeline, moving critical products between the US interior and the Pacific Rim. Since 1880, Shaver Transportation has been a key part of this system. On April 3, Shaver Vice President Marine Services Rob Rich will open a window into the tug and barge industry, sharing how it efficiently and sustainably transports grain, logs, sand, liquid bulks and other cargoes on our region’s marine highways.

The port’s 2018 Lecture Series features four free presentations about the port industry and international trade in our region. Additional lectures will be announced in April.

Space at each lecture is limited and pre-registration is required. To register, call 360-693-3611 or email RSVP@portvanusa.com.

– POV –

The Port of Vancouver USA is one of the major ports on the Pacific Coast, and its competitive strengths include available land, versatile cargo handling capabilities, vast transportation networks, a skilled labor force and an exceptional level of service to its customers and community. For more information, please visit us at www.portvanusa.com.