UMATILLA, Ore. – The Natural Resources Management staff at McNary Lock and Dam will offer tours of the Washington Fish View Room and the navigation lock on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., beginning Saturday, Aug. 27, through Saturday, Oct. 29, according to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers officials at the dam.
Public access to the north shore fish viewing room and navigation lock has been limited since the 9-11 closure of that area. Since then, park rangers have facilitated occasional educational tours to those facilities.
“The North Shore Fish Viewing Room is considered the best vantage point from which to see adult salmon passing McNary Dam,” said Natural Resource Manager David McDermott. “We’re glad to be able to offer this opportunity to the public, so they can once again see these incredible fish up close through the windows.”
Visitors may also have the chance to observe vessels passing the dam through the navigation lock, McDermott added.
“While there’s no guarantee a boat will need to lock through during these hours, visitors will be able to take a look inside the lock and learn a little more about how the Corps plays a role in navigation,” said McDermott.
To take advantage of this unique opportunity, check in with the security guard at the north shore gate of McNary Dam (Washington side of the Columbia River) then meet with Corps rangers at the navigation lock.
Visitors 18 years and older will need to provide photo identification for security purposes. Cameras, backpacks, cell phones, purses and large hand bags are not allowed inside secure areas of the dam – please, leave them in your vehicle. Visitors should wear sturdy walking shoes and expect to walk several flights of stairs.
To get there by traveling on Highway 82, take exit 131 east and follow the road to the north entrance of the dam; located at Columbia River Mile 292, on the north riverbank.
For more information about this event, call the McNary Natural Resources Management Office at 541-922-2268.
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