In 1891, the Oregon legislature created the Port of Portland to dredge a shipping channel from Portland to the Pacific Ocean. The Port owns several marine terminals, four airports (Portland International, Hillsboro, Mulino and Troutdale) and seven business parks.

The Port also owns and operates the dredge Oregon, which helps maintain the current 40-foot-deep navigation channel on the lower Columbia and Willamette rivers.

Port Mission
"The mission of the Port of Portland is to enhance the region's economy and quality of life by providing efficient cargo and air passenger access to national and global markets."