Willamette Falls Locks Closes For The Season Saturday

The locks are the oldest continuously operating multiple lift lock system in America and serves to transport river traffic past the 40-foot Willamette Falls.

Willamette Locks Photo by: Tim King

(WEST LINN) - The Willamette Falls Locks will end its summer operating season at 5:00 PM, Saturday, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Tuesday.

Extended operation of the locks this summer was made possible through a Challenge Partnership Agreement between the Department of the Army and Oregon Department of Transportation.

A coalition of local community stakeholders led by Oregon Solutions' project management team partnered with the Corps of Engineers to ensure funds were available for essential maintenance, allowing the locks to open for the summer.

A similar partnership and agreement for the 2007 season is underway while a long-term solution to resolving the shortage of operational funds is sought.

For more information about Willamette Falls Locks visit at www.nwp.usace.army.mil/op/wfl/.