The Columbia River: a salt water wedge estuary

Today we continue our series about the Columbia River. Today's topic: the fact that our lower river is called a "salt water wedge estuary." We'll talk about what that means, and why marine pilots consider it one of the river's many quirks that they need to take into account with regard to ships.

More about the Columbia: Its massive riverflow packs a big punch

This week we're talking about the Columbia River, and focusing on a different aspect of the river each day. Today we'll talk about all that water that flows by our doorsteps every day. We'll do a few comparisons that may help you understand how massive and formidable the river truly is, and why it should be treated with great respect at all times.

A brief history of the Columbia River

Today I thought we might start a weeklong look at the Columbia River starting today with a brief overview of river history.

Who's on the river today? And, our change in the weather could include snow

We'll take a look at ships traveling on the river today, talk about cargo, and why some ships anchor at both ends instead of just at the bow. We'll also talk a little about what might be in store, in terms of snow on the coast, over the next few days.

More on the critical skills mariners and first responders need to have

Today, we'll talk a little more about the critical skills and talents that mariners and first responders need to have, all part of the broad umbrella of skills that comrise situational awareness.

The USNS Guadalupe on the river

Situational awareness: a valuable life skill that defines mariners and first responders

Today we'll talk about something that mariners and some specialized land-based jobs share: the need for "situational awareness."

That's the abillity to pay focused attention to what's going on around you, and being able to respond appropriately. That means remaining calm, and no panicking.

Comparing navigation then and now

Today, a look at how ships navigate, and how different things are now from the way they were before the invention of GPS.

As our beautiful weather continues, so does ship traffic

Today, in the context of today's ships, we'll talk about cargo, anchorages and why ships are such an efficient means of travel. And take a look at when our amazing stretch of beautiful, but cold, weather might end.

A look at today's busy ship schedule

A good complement of ships on the river today, coming and going. Some interesting cargoes to talk about.