HOOD RIVER

• USHDX
• Latitude: 45.713
• Longitude: -121.5037
• US West Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Hood River is a picturesque port town located in the state of Oregon, USA, primarily known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational activities. Here's a description and summary of the specifications of the Hood River port:

Port Location

• Coordinates: Approximately 45.7054° N latitude, 121.5215° W longitude
• Waterway: Columbia River, which serves as a critical inland waterway in the Pacific Northwest.

General Description

• Hood River port is a modest maritime facility situated along the southern banks of the Columbia River. The port serves as a hub for both commercial and recreational activities.
• The surrounding region is well-known for fruit orchards, vineyards, and various outdoor sports such as windsurfing and kiteboarding due to the favorable wind conditions in the Columbia River Gorge.

Facilities and Infrastructure

• Docks and Piers: The port features several docks and piers to accommodate vessels of different sizes. These are used primarily for local fishing boats, recreational vessels, and occasional commercial barges.
• Marina: Hood River Marina offers slips and moorings for a variety of recreational and small commercial boats, as well as amenities such as fueling stations, restrooms, and boat launch ramps.
• Cargo Handling: The port is not a major cargo handling facility, but it can manage smaller loads. Typical cargo includes agricultural products, timber, and occasionally, container goods transshipped from larger nearby ports.
• Warehousing and Storage: Limited warehousing space is available for storage of goods and equipment related to maritime activities.

Port Services

• Harbormaster Office: Manages the day-to-day operations of the port, including vessel traffic control, berth allocation, and maintenance of port facilities.
• Customs and Border Protection: Limited services available, primarily for vessels arriving from international waters or transporting goods subject to customs inspection.
• Marine Repairs and Services: Onsite services include basic repair facilities, marine supply stores, and boat maintenance services.

Transportation and Connectivity

• Road Access: Hood River is accessible via Interstate 84, which runs along the Oregon shore of the Columbia River, providing efficient road transport options for goods and passengers.
• Rail Access: Limited rail services available; the nearest significant rail hub is further west in Portland, Oregon.
• Air Access: The closest major airport is Portland International Airport (PDX), approximately 60 miles west of Hood River, while Ken Jernstedt Airfield serves as a local general aviation facility.

Regulatory and Environmental Considerations

• The port operates under regulations set forth by the U.S. Coast Guard and other federal and state maritime authorities.
• Environmental sustainability and protection of local ecosystems are prioritized, with ongoing efforts to minimize pollution and preserve the natural beauty of the Columbia River Gorge area.

Economic and Community Impact

• Hood River port plays an essential role in the local economy by supporting tourism, recreation, and small-scale commercial activities.
• It provides employment opportunities, fosters economic development, and serves as a center for community events and gatherings.

Recreational Activities

• The region is renowned for windsurfing and kiteboarding, attracting enthusiasts from all over the world.
• Other recreational opportunities include sailing, fishing, and sightseeing along the Columbia River Gorge.

This overview captures the essential aspects of Hood River's port, a charming and multifaceted maritime locale in the Pacific Northwest.