LEWISTON
- Latitude: 46.4136 •
- Longitude: -117.036 •
- US West Coast •
- Port in US
Address: US
Lewiston is a port city located in the state of Idaho, United States. It holds a unique position as it is the farthest inland seaport on the west coast of the United States, approximately 465 miles (748 kilometers) from the Pacific Ocean. The port primarily serves as an important hub for agricultural and forest product exports from the interior northwest to international markets. Here are the key aspects and specifications for the Port of Lewiston:
General Information
- Location: Lewiston, Idaho, USA
- Coordinates: 46.4167° N, 117.0170° W
- River System: Snake River, part of the Columbia River System
- Management: Port of Lewiston Authority
Facilities and Infrastructure
- Docking Facilities: The port features multiple docks capable of handling barge traffic along the Snake River.
- Cargo Handling: The port specializes in bulk cargo such as grain, peas, lentils, and forest products. It is equipped with various cargo handling facilities including grain elevators, container loading/unloading facilities, and warehousing capacities.
- Warehousing: The port has substantial warehousing and storage facilities to handle both inbound and outbound cargo.
Navigation and Access
- Navigable Waterways: The port is accessible via the Snake River, which flows into the Columbia River, connecting it to the Pacific Ocean through the Astoria-Megler Bridge.
- Locks and Dams: Navigation to Lewiston involves passing through several locks and dams, including the Lower Granite, Little Goose, Lower Monumental, and Ice Harbor Dams on the Snake River.
Transportation Links
- Rail Links: The port is connected to various regional rail networks, allowing easy movement of goods to and from the port. These railroads are capable of handling bulk and containerized freight.
- Road Connectivity: The port is strategically located with connectivity to major highways facilitating efficient transport of goods by truck.
- Barges: Barge services are a key mode of transport at the Port of Lewiston, providing an economical method for transporting bulk commodities downriver.
Economic Activities
- Exports: The port is primarily focused on exporting agricultural products such as wheat, barley, peas, and lentils, as well as forest products including logs and paper.
- Imports: While the primary focus is on exports, the port also handles import cargoes, serving as a critical supply point for regional industries.
Additional Services
- Container Handling: The port provides container handling services, including loading and unloading operations.
- Customs Services: U.S. Customs and Border Protection services are present to handle the clearance of goods.
- Logistics Services: Various logistics and shipping companies operate within the port area, offering services ranging from freight forwarding to warehousing and distribution.
Economic and Strategic Significance
- Regional Impact: The port is a vital economic engine for the region, supporting local agriculture and trade.
- Strategic Location: Its unique inland position allows it to serve as a gateway for international trade for interior regions far from coastal ports.
Environmental Considerations
- Sustainability Initiatives: The Port of Lewiston has various programs to minimize its environmental impact, including efforts to maintain the health of the Snake River and surrounding ecosystems.
Future Developments
- Expansion Plans: Ongoing investments aim to enhance the port's infrastructure, expand its cargo handling capacity, and improve multimodal transportation links.
The Port of Lewiston remains a crucial part of the regional economy, leveraging its strategic location and robust infrastructure to facilitate trade and support local industries.