Columbia County Tourism Is Back

After an eight-month hiatus, Columbia County’s tourism program is back.

A sincere thank-you goes to the Port of Columbia County for stepping in to serve as our county’s Destination Management Organization (DMO). The Port recognizes tourism for what it is. An important economic development tool that benefits our communities, businesses and residents.

An important part of my role is making sure Columbia County has a seat at the table. I’m here to represent and advocate for our tourism-related businesses, organizations and communities with our state and regional partners. Ensuring that our needs, challenges and opportunities are heard.

During my time away from this work, I had the opportunity to travel. Experiencing new places as a visitor gave me a renewed appreciation for what makes a destination memorable. The people you meet, the stories you hear and the unexpected places you discover along the way. It also gave me fresh perspective on how we can help visitors experience Columbia County.

Highlighting the amenities, businesses and experiences that make Columbia County special isn’t only about attracting visitors. It also helps attract new businesses, industry, investment and talent. It reminds us why this is such a great place to live, work and build something.

Scappoose Bay Marina, pictured above, is a wonderful example of how outdoor recreation, tourism, local businesses and economic development come together.

There is a lot to catch up on, relationships to rebuild and opportunities to pursue. Let’s do this!

We are slowly rebuilding our tourism contact list. Please share this newsletter with friends, colleagues and businesses that may want to stay connected and encourage them to sign up so they don’t miss future industry news, resources and opportunities.

Lots more to come,

~ Wela

Wela Negelspach

Tourism Consultant

Port of Columbia County

503-310-3861

wandercolumbiacounty@gmail.com

Make Columbia County's Voice Heard

The 2026 Tourism Industry Partner Survey is now open. If you work in tourism or a tourism-adjacent industry, we're talking restaurants, bars, coffee shops and carts, food carts, bakeries, delis, retail, lodging, search and rescue, guiding, recreation, attractions or event venues, Travel Oregon wants to hear from you.

I realize this is a last-minute request, especially for our St. Helens businesses preparing for Halloweentown, but please take a few moments to participate. Your input will help shape the continued development of Oregon’s tourism economy and ensure Columbia County’s needs, challenges and opportunities are heard by our partners at the state level.

Deadline is October 1st and you will be eligible for a chance to win a $500 Visa gift card.

The survey is available in both English and Spanish.

You're Invited!

THIS SUNDAY!

The newly rehabilitated runway is open! Come walk around Scappoose Airport, meet members of our aviation community and experience the excitement firsthand.

The $4 million runway project was completed ahead of schedule and now it’s time to celebrate!

Join the Port Sunday, September 27, from noon to 3 p.m. for the Scappoose Airport Grand Reopening and NWAAC Annual Pie-In, supporting the NWAAC Scholarship Fund.

Enjoy a fly-in, biplane rides, a formation-flying demonstration, live music, food and plenty of airplanes. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about what happens at the airport, this is a great opportunity to come explore!

2026 Outdoor Recreation Summit

Let’s Show Up!

The 2026 Oregon Outdoor Recreation Summit is coming to Ashland October 22–24. This isn’t just a trails conference. It brings together guides and outfitters, outdoor-recreation businesses, tourism organizations, public agencies, nonprofits, trail advocates, land managers and others working to strengthen Oregon’s outdoor economy and experiences.

Last year, Columbia County was represented by the County, the Port, our DMO and The Paddle Shack. This year, it would be great to see even more of our local partners at the table. It’s a valuable opportunity to learn, make connections and ensure Columbia County is part of statewide conversations about outdoor recreation, sustainable tourism and economic opportunity.

Guides and outfitters can also attend a Travel Oregon training on October 21.

Limited scholarships for half-day, one-day and full-summit attendance are available and awarded on a rolling basis, so apply soon if assistance would make it possible for you to attend.