Facts & Myths
It is the goal of the Portland District to provide the public with factual information about the Columbia River Channel Improvement Project. Occasionally, statements are made (either by the Corps or by others) that lead to a misunderstanding of the facts. As we become aware of such misunderstandings, we will attempt to explain and clarify them on this site to enhance effective public dialog. For questions about these topics, please e-mail us. ginal text hereA considerable amount of inaccurate and/or incomplete information is currently being circulated about this issue.
The following misconceptions were selected based on the comments we have received.
| Myth 1: Legislation currently making its way through Congress would exempt the Corps from complying with state and federal water quality laws for the Columbia River Channel Improvement Project. |
| Facts: The legislation is a paragraph included in Section 123 of the FY 2004 Consolidated Appropriations Bill (Omnibus Bill). The paragraph reads: The Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, is directed to proceed with the construction of the Columbia River Channel Improvements, Oregon and Washington, project in accordance with the Report of the Chief of Engineers, dated December 23, 1999, and the economic justification and environmental features stated therein, as amended by the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement dated January 28, 2003. Our interpretation of this language is that Congress is again authorizing the project to include changes identified in the 2003 report. Nothing in this language would exempt the Corps from complying with any existing state or federal law. The Corps has sought and received water quality certifications and coastal zone management determination concurrences from the states of Oregon and Washington, and is committed to working with state officials to meet the conditions the states have placed on the project. |