Boaters now have improved access to the lower Willamette and Columbia rivers now that a dredging project at Scappoose Bay Marine Park is complete, according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Prior to the project, boats were grounding out in the channel at low tide.
The channel was deepened around the boat ramp and short term boat moorage, improving safety for recreational boaters at the Marine Park, which provides public access to a popular fishery and water recreation area.
“The dredging of Scappoose Bay Marine Park improves safety for recreational boaters launching, retrieving and visiting the Marine Park, ” said Scott Brewen, Oregon State Marine Board director.
“The Marine Board is very conservative with approving grant funding for dredging, however, safety is a priority with the heavy use this ramp experiences.”
Cost of the project was $494,000, which was paid by several partners, including the Oregon State Marine Board, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Port of St. Helens.
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