The much-anticipated dredging project at Traders Cove Marina and Park in Brick Township is scheduled to begin in early November, with work expected to continue through December 31. This initiative is focused on improving navigation and enhancing water safety for local boaters, making it a key maintenance effort for the marina.
The Need for Dredging at Traders Cove Marina
As sediment naturally builds up in waterways, it gradually impacts depth and ease of navigation. Over time, sediment accumulation has created shallow areas within the boat slips at Traders Cove, making it challenging for boats to dock and navigate safely. This dredging effort will address these issues, restoring the marina’s accessibility and improving safety for both residents and visitors.
Mayor Lisa Crate highlighted the importance of this initiative, saying, “Dredging Traders Cove has become necessary due to the shallow depths that have developed over time. This project will ensure that Traders Cove remains navigable and safe for residents and visitors who use the marina.”
Project Goals: Enhancing Navigation and Environmental Restoration
The main objective of the project is to deepen the boat slips to approximately 3 feet below the channel surface, or 6 feet below the mean high-water mark. This improvement in depth will significantly ease navigation for boaters, promoting safer and more convenient access to the marina.
Additionally, the dredged material will be repurposed for marsh restoration at the nearby Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. This environmentally friendly approach not only supports navigability but also contributes to local wetland conservation, helping sustain the habitats and ecological health of the area.
Equipment and Techniques for Efficient Dredging
To efficiently remove sediment from the marina’s channels, the project will employ a swinging ladder dredge, a specialized tool ideal for channel dredging due to its precision and effectiveness in sediment removal. Within the marina’s boat slips, a long-reach excavator mounted on a barge will be used. This setup allows the team to reach deeper, more constrained areas, ensuring thorough dredging in all necessary zones.
Project Timeline and Future Benefits for Traders Cove Marina
Scheduled to conclude by December 31, the dredging project will prepare Traders Cove for the upcoming boating season, ensuring that it remains a safe and accessible space for boaters in the years ahead. By deepening the marina and repurposing the dredged materials for ecological restoration, Brick Township demonstrates its commitment to sustainable, community-centered improvements that benefit both residents and the environment.
This dredging project at Traders Cove Marina not only supports navigability but also contributes to local conservation efforts, setting a positive example for environmentally conscious development in the area.