To define the quantity or area to be dredged, acoustic sounding techniques are often used.Įnvironmental impact assessments are also a crucial part of project planning for dredging. These help the client and contractor to understand the nature of the materials to be dredged. Most projects require extensive pre-dredging preparation including a variety of bathymetric, geological and geophysical analyses. Planning, design, constructionĭredging requires thorough planning, design and construction, which involve engineers, scientists and highly trained crews representing a wide range of skills.

Modern dredging vessels and technologies can collect and transport large quantities of sand to improve and expand existing ports, and to build land reclamations, which form platforms for offshore airports, residential and commercial areas. Maritime Infrastructureĭredging is used to address a broad range of maritime infrastructure needs – with economic, social and environmental implications.ĭredging deepens ports and access channels to accommodate global waterborne freight transport of goods.ĭredging also excavates or ‘mines’ sand from far offshore and then transports these materials to onshore locations where they are used to replenish eroded beaches and rebuild coastlines for protection of low-lying areas. Sand excavated from the ocean is used for beach restoration and land reclamation. This includes both the excavation and removal of a variety of materials – sediment, sand, rock and debris – from waterways, such as harbours, ports, lakes and rivers, usually for the purpose of deepening or cleaning them.

Dredge and fill definition