Waterways Council, Inc. (WCI) is a Washington, D.C.–based national trade association that advocates for a modern, efficient and well‑maintained system of U.S. inland waterways and ports. Founded in 2003, WCI educates policymakers, mobilizes a grassroots network, and promotes lock-and-dam modernization, navigation reliability, dredging and port investment to support commerce, jobs and export competitiveness.
Advocacy for inland navigation infrastructure and ports including Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) authorizations, Corps of Engineers construction and operations & maintenance appropriations, lock and dam construction/major rehabilitation, dredging and harbor maintenance, Inland Waterways Trust Fund and funding/cost‑share reforms, and public education/grassroots outreach on waterways policy.
Primarily funded by membership dues and industry contributions from member companies, plus event fees and sponsorships.
Broad coalition of member companies and organizations including inland carriers, shippers, ports, construction contractors, energy and agribusiness firms and organized labor; examples of member interests represented include Cargill/Cargill Marine & Terminal, Crounse Corporation, Marathon Petroleum, Bunge, Parker Towing, Campbell Transportation, Canal Barge/Marquette/Upper River Services, Port of New Orleans and construction trades/unions.
Nonprofit trade association (501(c)(6) business league)
