An extended closure of the Columbia Snake River System (CSRS) is scheduled from January 14 to March 29, 2024, to change significant parts at the John Day and McNary dams (see above) on the Columbia River, and at the Lower Monumental, Little Goose, and Lower Granite dams on the Snake River.
Similar extended closures happened in 2010 and 2016. This upkeep to be carried out represents a forward-thinking financial investment by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to ensure this crucial waterway stays functional for years to come. The extra enhancements will help the U.S. wheat export supply system stay the most trustworthy on the planet.
A Partner in USW
U.S. Wheat Associate (USW) acknowledges that the river system upgrade raises concerns for consumers sourcing U.S. wheat off Pacific Northwest (PNW) ports. Experience throughout the last 2 closures reveals the PNW supply system will utilize every logistical choice to keep wheat streaming to export elevators. USW stands all set to partner with purchasers to help handle any effect associated with the prolonged closure.
Lowered for Navigation. Barges filled with U.S. soft white wheat will leave downstream from a lock on the Columbia Snake River System. which need to be functional for the river system to work. Each of the 8 locks on the system need to be functional for safe, effective barge navigation. U.S. Wheat Associates image.
The Supply Chain Will Be Ready
About 75% of yearly PNW soft white (SW) and club wheat exports are barged on the CSRS and Willamette Rivers. Knowing the CSRS will be closed throughout the upgrade, exporters, grain producers, barge operators, railways, and trucking lines will work to lessen disruptions and expenses. Some choices consist of:
- Pre-placing the optimum variety of barges to pack wheat prior to the extended closing.
- Moving more rail cars and trucks and engines into the area to handle increased need from rail-loading interior elevators.
- Pre-placing more SW and club in Columbia River District export elevators prior to the closure.
- Loading SW in barges from elevators listed below the John Day dam throughout the closure.
- Coordinating truck shipment from the Willamette Valley, south of Portland.
Consult with USW and PNW exporters as quickly as possible to help smooth any logistical obstacles.
Preparation Will Also Benefit Buyers
USW thinks there will suffice volume of all U.S. wheat classes usually available from the PNW. Buyers can likewise help reduce the threat of disruption and lessen possible expenses by taking a longer view of their supply chain requirements. USW encourages its consumers to think about:
- Consulting with PNW exporters as early as possible to help offer exporters more time to react to your requirements and to handle logistical obstacles.
- Scheduling a conference quickly with a regional USW agent to recognize purchasing methods that fit those particular requirements and abilities.
- Analyzing stock requires and logistical abilities.
- Increasing SW wheat and/or flour storage capability.
- Increasing SW purchase cadence prior to the closure.
Working Together
As an unbiased voice for U.S. wheat manufacturers, USW values the trust consumers have in our product or services. Our focus stays repaired on assisting purchasers, millers, and food mill learn how to grow their business utilizing our wheat. Working together, our company believe we can help alleviate any issues associated with the 2024 extended closure and enhance our collaboration. USW eagerly anticipates helping you now, as constantly.
For more details, call your nation or local USW workplace, and go to the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association online.
