Partial Oregon Inlet dredging planned again
Published October 23, 2007 by adminConcerns are back about scheduled side-casting dredging necessary to keep the dangerous ocean-to-sound channel open this winter for commercial fishermen. Hopper dredging will apparently not be available in the upcoming months.
Private bids to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers came in higher than government estimates like they did last year because the work required is much harder in the winter months.
The Corps is seeking permission from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to allow big-contract dredges in the summer months when it is safer and shoaling is less severe, in order to more effectively maintain the authorized depth of 14 feet.
The Corps does a diligent job given their never-ending task and generally keeps the depth at 10 feet but the smaller dredges struggle to control the shoaling.
For now, and possibly until March, one of three Wilmington side-caster type dredges will be working every day to keep the channel clear. Thanks to the Corps for all they do, and wishes for safe passage go out to all fishermen travelling the inlet.
Terry Rush Cremia
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