Registration is now open for the Marine Highway 35 Workshop, hosted by the Upper Mississippi Waterway Association (UMWA) on June 25 at the Western Illinois University Riverfront Campus in Moline, Illinois.  

The one-day workshop will bring industry leaders and stakeholders together for in‑depth conversations on the critical role of the working river and opportunities to improve efficiency along the Upper Mississippi River corridor. The agenda is designed to foster a unified understanding of how industry leaders and stakeholders can address challenges, align priorities and collaborate to help the mighty Mississippi River flow at its most efficient state.   

“The Marine Highway 35 Workshop is a wonderful opportunity to see how everything is interconnected, from the land to the river and beyond,” UMWA President Zac Morris said. “I’m excited about getting people involved and engaged. Ultimately, the goal is to gain more recognition on the Upper Mississippi and allocate more congressional spending to improve the system and preserve the working river.” 

While the agenda is still being constructed, attendees can expect a full day of presentations and discussions with industry professionals and opportunity for discussion throughout. Topics will include freight movement, infrastructure needs and strategies for leveraging marine transportation to support regional economic growth. 

“UMWA sees the Marine Highway 35 Workshop as a timely and practical forum to rethink how we use the river system to move freight, relieve highway congestion and strengthen rural and port communities,” said Gary Williams, UMWA executive director. “Building on the goals of the U.S. Marine Highway Program, this workshop is intended to surface concrete projects, identify investment opportunities and clarify the policy and permitting steps needed to turn concepts into operating services on the M35 route.” 

A speaker panel will focus on applying and implementing funding from the U.S. Maritime Administration and other public sources. In addition, the University of Arkansas will present UMWA-supported research on the regional economic impact study of the Upper Mississippi River navigation system. 

“Participants can expect candid dialogue among shippers, carriers, ports and public agencies about what it will take to shift more cargo to the waterway,” Williams said. “People should attend if they want to help shape the future of Marine Highway 35 – whether that means opening new markets for barge and marine services, reducing pressure on congested highway corridors, improving environmental performance or unlocking new economic opportunities for communities tied to this vital stretch of the Upper Mississippi River.” 

The workshop will end with an optional river tour. 

Visit UMWA.net for the latest agenda and registration information or contact UMWA Executive Director Gary Williams at gwilliams@agmgmtsolutions.com.