Upper Mississippi Waterway Associations (UMWA) membership represents a broad collaboration of the river industry — commercial operators, ports, terminals, fleet managers, engineers and service providers — who have re‑committed to advancing a regional association centered on education, career outreach, collaboration and advocacy for the Upper Mississippi.
“For me personally, being involved with UMWA is about giving back to an industry that has given me so much,” UMWA board member Brandon Phillips said. “It’s an opportunity to contribute my experience, support responsible stewardship of our waterways and help ensure that future generations of mariners have the same opportunities that I was fortunate enough to have.”
UMWA members are waterway operators, shippers and other waterway interests working together to promote the economic and environmental benefits of water transportation in the Upper Midwest.
Incorporated in 1932, UMWA works with members and other stakeholders to ensure that the Upper Mississippi River navigation system is used and maintained in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.
“UMWA provides a forum where industry professionals can collaborate, share knowledge and advocate for the continued improvement of the navigation system,” said Phillips, a compliance manager and captain with Riverview Board Store and Tug Service. “Whether it’s supporting modernization of locks and dams, addressing operational challenges or helping educate the next generation about maritime careers, the association helps ensure the long-term strength of the inland waterways.”
‘An essential role’
UMWA represents interests in Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Members include industrial and consumer goods manufacturers, electric utilities, grain companies, agricultural cooperatives, metal recyclers, barge and towing companies, recreational and passenger boat operators, marinas and others having an interest in river navigation and associated environmental issues.
“After spending more than two decades working on the river, I’ve seen firsthand how vital the inland waterways system is to our economy and our communities,” Phillips said. “The Mississippi River and its tributaries move the commodities that feed the world, support thousands of jobs and connect rural America to global markets. Organizations like UMWA play an essential role in making sure the voices of those who work on the water are heard when decisions are made about infrastructure, policy and investment.”
This portion of the river is uniquely vital. While UMWA supports efforts to improve habitat and water quality, its focus remains on sustaining a working waterway that supports farmers, businesses and communities throughout the region. There’s safety in numbers, and by joining UMWA, members are joining an organization with an over 90-year history of representing the working river with passion and through proactive advocacy.
“Your association, made up of members that are stakeholders of the region of the Upper Mississippi River, is purposed to educate and inform, promote career choices and better ensure that our section of the Mississippi is invested in and remains an important component for a marine highway,” UMWA executive director Gary Williams said.
To join UMWA, visit here.
Membership options-
Individual Membership (1-2 people), $108
Mini Company Membership (3-5 people), $270
Small Company Membership (6-50 people), $540
Medium Company Membership (51-100 people), $1,084
Large Company Membership (101+ people), $2,700