Ports & Terminals

Arkansas's inland waterways are served by a network of public ports and private terminals that connect the state's industries to domestic and international markets. These facilities handle bulk commodities, breakbulk cargo, and support intermodal transfers along the Arkansas, Mississippi, Red, Ouachita, and White Rivers.

The network of public ports and private terminals along Arkansas's waterways forms the backbone of the state's industrial supply chain. These facilities are strategically positioned on the Arkansas, Mississippi, Red, Ouachita, and White Rivers, giving shippers direct access to the Mississippi River system and, by extension, the Gulf of Mexico and international markets. Ports in this system handle a wide range of cargo, including agricultural commodities, forest products, steel, and manufactured goods. Many facilities offer open storage, warehousing, and direct rail or truck connections, making them true multimodal hubs. The continued development of these ports supports job creation and economic growth across the region.

Private terminals complement public ports by serving specific industrial needs along the river system. These facilities are often built and operated by companies in the agriculture, energy, or manufacturing sectors, allowing them to move raw materials and finished goods efficiently. By locating operations along the waterways, businesses reduce transportation costs and lessen wear on the state's highways and bridges. Private terminals typically handle high-volume bulk commodities such as grain, fertilizer, sand, gravel, and petroleum products. Their presence along the rivers strengthens the overall logistics network and ensures that Arkansas's producers remain competitive in both domestic and global markets.

Intermodal connectivity is a defining feature of Arkansas's port facilities. Many ports are designed to transfer cargo seamlessly between barges, trains, and trucks, offering shippers flexibility and cost savings. This multimodal approach is especially valuable for commodities that move in large volumes over long distances, where barge transportation offers significant fuel efficiency advantages. Ports that provide rail access can reach markets across the continent, while truck connections enable last-mile delivery to local customers. The ability to switch between modes without cargo handling delays makes Arkansas's ports attractive to logistics providers and manufacturers seeking reliable supply chain solutions.

The Arkansas Waterways Association works closely with port authorities, terminal operators, and state agencies to advocate for infrastructure investment and policy support. Maintaining and improving the navigable channel depths, lock and dam systems, and docking facilities requires ongoing attention from both public and private stakeholders. The association helps coordinate efforts to secure funding for dredging, dock upgrades, and rail connections that keep Arkansas's ports competitive. By fostering communication among port operators, shippers, and policymakers, the association ensures that the state's waterway infrastructure continues to meet the needs of a growing economy while preserving the environmental health of the rivers themselves.