Boardman, OR

Boardman, Oregon is a small city located in Morrow County, in the northeastern part of the state. It is situated along the Columbia River and is approximately 164 miles east of Portland. The history of Boardman can be traced back to the mid-19th century when European settlers began to arrive in the region.

Native American tribes, primarily the Umatilla, Cayuse, and Walla Walla, occupied the area for thousands of years prior to the arrival of the settlers. In the 1850s, after the region was opened to Euro-American settlers, many pioneers started to establish farms along the Columbia River.

The town of Boardman owes its early development to the Oregon Railroad and Navigation Company (OR&N), which was a subsidiary of the Union Pacific Railroad. In the early 1900s, the OR&N laid tracks in the area and constructed a railroad station, which became known as "Boardman's Station." The station served as a stop for trains, facilitating the transportation of agricultural products such as wheat, barley, and hay, as well as timber from the nearby Blue Mountains.

In 1903, a townsite was platted near the railroad station, and the community gradually began to grow. The town was named after Samuel H. Boardman, the son-in-law of one of the original developers of the OR&N. Boardman served as a general manager of the Oregon Trunk Line, a branch of the OR&N that connected the Columbia River with Central Oregon.

Over the years, Boardman continued to develop as an agricultural and transportation hub. The area saw an increase in farming activity, with crops like wheat, corn, onions, potatoes, and sugar beets being cultivated. The presence of the Columbia River and access to railroads also encouraged businesses and industries to establish themselves in Boardman.

In the 1970s, Boardman attracted significant attention due to the construction of the Boardman Coal Plant, a major coal-fired power plant. This plant was developed to meet the growing energy demands of the region and brought considerable employment opportunities to the area. However, the coal-powered plant was later decommissioned due to environmental concerns and replaced with a more environmentally-friendly natural gas plant.

Boardman has seen steady growth in recent years, primarily due to its strategic location along major transportation routes, including Interstate 84, railroads, and its proximity to the Columbia River. The city continues to be an important center for agriculture, transportation, and the power industry.

In summary, Boardman's history is deeply intertwined with the arrival of settlers, the development of railroads, and the growth of agriculture. Today, the city serves as a testament to the resilience of small communities and their ability to adapt to changing environments and economic demands.

Boardman Marina Park

This waterfront park offers picnic areas, a boat ramp, fishing opportunities, and scenic views of the Columbia River.

Columbia River Expo

This annual event showcases live entertainment, food vendors, arts and crafts, and various activities for both children and adults.

Willow Creek Dam

Located nearby, this dam features a beautiful reservoir and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

SAGE Center

This interactive agricultural museum provides educational exhibits about the history and importance of farming and technology in the region.

Captain Al James Tugboat

The restored tugboat is on display at the Boardman Marina and offers visitors a chance to tour and learn about the area's maritime history.

Boardman Lake and Trail System

This network of trails provides opportunities for hiking, biking, bird-watching, and enjoying nature.

Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge

Located just outside of Boardman, this refuge offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, bird-watching, and photography.

McNary Dam

Just a short drive away, this dam on the Columbia River offers tours, fishing, and a visitor center.

Big River Golf Course

Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at this scenic 18-hole championship golf course.

Cunningham State Recreation Area

Situated along the Columbia River, this park offers camping, boating, swimming, and hiking opportunities.

Boardman, Oregon has a cold semi-arid climate. It experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.

Summer (June to August): The summers in Boardman are warm and dry. Average high temperatures range from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (about 28-33 degrees Celsius). The region receives very little rainfall during this period, and humidity levels are relatively low.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Boardman is mild with gradually decreasing temperatures. High temperatures range from the mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 18-27 degrees Celsius). Rainfall begins to increase during this season, but it is still relatively dry compared to other parts of the country.

Winter (December to February): Winters in Boardman are cold and can be quite chilly. Average high temperatures range from the mid-30s to mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 1-12 degrees Celsius). The region receives occasional snowfall, but it is relatively rare and doesn't typically accumulate for long.

Spring (March to May): Springs in Boardman are mild and bring an increase in temperatures. High temperatures range from the mid-50s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 12-23 degrees Celsius). Rainfall increases further during this season, although it is still relatively dry compared to other regions.

Overall, Boardman, Oregon experiences a dry climate throughout the year, with low to moderate rainfall and relatively mild temperatures. It is characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, occasionally snowy winters.

Boardman, Oregon is a small town located in the northeastern part of the state. While it may not have distinct neighborhoods in the traditional sense, there are a few notable areas within the town:

Central Boardman

This is the heart of the town, where most of the commercial activities and services are located. Here, you'll find the city hall, library, post office, and various businesses. It is a relatively compact area that serves as the town's hub.

Residential Areas

Boardman has several residential areas scattered throughout the town. These neighborhoods consist of primarily single-family homes, ranging from older, more established areas to newer developments. The residential sections provide a quieter and more residential ambiance, often featuring tree-lined streets and a close-knit community feel.

Columbia Crest Estates

Located on the outskirts of Boardman, Columbia Crest Estates is a desirable residential community consisting of larger, upscale homes. It offers a suburban atmosphere with carefully planned landscaping and spacious properties. The area boasts beautiful views of the Columbia River and easy access to outdoor recreational activities.

Riverside Industrial Park

Situated to the north of Boardman, the Riverside Industrial Park is a significant economic and industrial zone. It houses a range of businesses, including manufacturing plants, warehouses, and distribution centers. The park provides employment opportunities and contributes to the local economy.

Overall, Boardman is a small town with a tightly-knit community. Its neighborhoods may not have distinct names or characteristics, but they offer a mix of residential areas, commercial centers, and industrial zones that contribute to the town's unique character.