How to Lock Thru at Willamette Falls Locks
Willamette Falls Locks offer free portage for both commercial and recreational boaters around Willamette Falls.
When approaching the locks, boaters should use their marine radios to call the lock operator on Channel 14 (radio call sign WUJ 363; 156.7 megahertz). Boaters without marine radios can use the small boat alarm and intercome found at each end of the lock chamber. Red and green lights control traffic, and the rules of the road apply. A vessel may enter the locks only when the green light is lit. Passage also may be scheduled before arrival by calling the Lock operator at (503) 656-3381.
West Linn Paper Company owns and maintains a 15-ton load limit bascule counterweighted drawbridge located midway through Lock 4. This drawbridge provides access to the paper mill and is raised and lowered by a security guard when necessary to provide clearance for barges and other tall vessels locking through.
Priority to pass through the locks is given in the following order:
- Boats owned by the U.S. Government or employed for river and harbor improvement work
- Passenger boats (commercial)
- Freight and towboats
- Log rafts
- Small vessels, pleasure craft and jet skis
Pleasure boats, skiffs, fishing boats and other small boats pass through the locks alone or in groups.
For more efficient use of the locks, traffic is moved in one direction until all lockages in that direction have been completed.
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