River, rail topics key session with rep's staffers

Two staff members from Rep. Cathy McMorris-Rodgers' office listened to a variety of concerns from county representatives Monday afternoon.

Cathy Schaeffer and Chud Wendle met with county commissioners and Port of Whitman County commissioners to discuss issues with the elected officials.

One of the first topics that generated discussion was access to Army Corps of Engineers ground along the Snake River that some cattlemen use as pasture during winter months.

Although the corps is mandated to work out issues with livestock owners, no real solution has been resolved.

The county commissioners said they understand the problem stems from individuals within the corps.

Port Commissioner Tom Kammerzell said they are concerned about future growth for port industries.

"There's no opportunity to expand for the port," he said. "The corps has a corridor on both sides of the (Snake) river. We're full."

Kammerzell pointed out the port has no more room at the Port of Wilma or Central Ferry.

"We can't expand," he said. "It's real frustrating for us."

Discussion also included grain transportation issues and the McCoy elevator.

Kammerzell pointed out the need for funds to maintain the McCoy-Marshall rail link which links McCoy to the shipping system.

The port and the state PCC rail system, which operates the rail link to Marshall, have submitted five applications to the federal funding program for railroad improvements without success.

Kammerzell said they have been informed the federal program could be changed and requested the representatives keep the port atuned to any changes they might make in the funding grant applications.

County Commissioner Art Swannack asked that the two representatives to keep an eye on the Farm Bill and its impact on Eastern Washington farmers.