Knutson Towboat Co. v. Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots

Petitioner Knutson Towboat Company seeks review of an order of the Board of Maritime Pilots (Board) setting pilotage rates and adopting a settlement agreement between Oregon pilot groups and the Portland Steamship Operators Association (PSOA) implementing an increase in rates and charges assessed by pilots for pilotage services. We review the Board’s order under ORS 183.482 for substantial evidence and errors of law and affirm.

When a ship enters or leaves one of the state’s “pilotage” grounds, on its way to or from sea, a licensed maritime pilot boards the ship and helps to maneuver it…