Port of St. Helens commissioners have approved agreements with two companies that want to export coal, adding to the scramble to ship coal to Asia through Northwest ports.
The commissioners voted in favor of coal export — potentially up to 38 million tons a year — Wednesday night after testimony from supporters touting the job potential and from opponents with concerns about environmental impacts and increased train and barge traffic.
The agreements with Kinder Morgan and Ambre Energy subsidiary Pacific Transloading would provide construction work and up to 105 full-time jobs, the companies said, as well as port revenues, property taxes and more money for schools. Both companies vowed to run clean operations and contain coal dust.
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About coalfreegorge
Coal is rearing its head again the Columbia Gorge. The new threat comes in the form of proposals to export coal from Wyoming to coal-fired power plants in China. The coal would be transported via uncovered rail cars through the Columbia Gorge.
Many Columbia Gorge Communities in Oregon and Washington support a coal-free world, beginning at home, in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, recognizing the importance of people determining what materials are allowable for transport through their communities and watersheds.
This blog exists to communicate and advocate for the public interest in issues pertaining to coal transport in the Columbia River Gorge, providing an online outlet for honest discussion and information. To inform and unite local citizens about the damaging effects of coal transport through our communities. To endorse positive and considerate dialogue with the aim of mutual understanding among diverse parties.
CLEAN AIR
HEALTHY COMMUNITIES
NO COAL EXPORTS
STOP COAL IN ITS TRACKS
coalfreegorge.wordpress.com 
Article says one company will use covered barges, & other will need only a few trains. So, is the Gorge saved for now?