Coast Guard to create Sector Columbia River Today

The Coast Guard will see the birth of Sector Columbia River when Sector Portland, Ore., combines with Group/Air Station Astoria, Ore., during a ceremony in Astoria, Monday.

The formation of Sector Columbia River is part of an initiative commonly referred to as "sectorization," part of a nationwide effort to consolidate the many responsibilities, missions and jurisdictions within the Coast Guard. The move is also aimed at increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of Coast Guard personnel and assets.

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"The merger of these two major Coast Guard commands is designed to help improve and streamline our operational command and control organization for our many missions allowing for better service to our customers throughout the entire Columbia River region and along the Oregon coast," said Captain Douglas Kaup, prospective Sector Columbia River Commanding Officer.

Coast Guard Station Grays Harbor is unaffected by this merger, Coast Guard air Station Astoria is a first responder off the Grays Harbor coast where airlifting is required.