The St. Lucie Inlet maintenance dredging project is well underway, bringing significant progress to this essential coastal area. The operation, led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), aims to maintain navigational safety while ensuring long-term environmental sustainability.
Dredging Operations Shift Focus to the Impoundment Basin
Dredging efforts have recently transitioned from the channel cuts to the Impoundment Basin located on the northside of St. Lucie Inlet. This strategic move marks an important phase in the project, contributing to the overall efficiency of the dredging process.
Protecting the Queen Conch: Environmental Precautions Taken
Earlier this year, the Queen Conch was listed as a threatened species, prompting Martin County to take immediate action. Licensed biologists from Coastal Eco-Group were brought in to perform dive inspections, ensuring the protection of this valuable marine species.
Relocation of Queen Conch to Safe Zones
According to USACE, biologists discovered Queen Conch within the project site. In response, they safely relocated the species to an approved receiver location before dredging equipment was mobilized to avoid any potential harm.
Project Timeline and Dredging Equipment
The St. Lucie Inlet maintenance dredging project officially commenced on July 20, 2024. The contractor awarded for this project, Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company, is utilizing state-of-the-art equipment to execute the job effectively.
Mechanical Clamshell Dredge in Action
The primary equipment being used is a Mechanical Clamshell Dredge, which, along with scows, is responsible for removing sediment and transporting it to an offshore rehandling site. This equipment is ideal for the type of dredging required at St. Lucie Inlet.
Future Beach Renourishment Plans
One of the major benefits of this project is the collection of sand, which will be repurposed for future beach renourishment efforts. This proactive step will help combat coastal erosion and improve the overall health of nearby beaches.
Completion Date Set for October 2024
USACE has confirmed that the completion date for the St. Lucie Inlet dredging project is scheduled for mid-October 2024. The project’s timely execution is crucial for both maintaining navigation channels and supporting future coastal projects.
Conclusion
The ongoing maintenance dredging at St. Lucie Inlet is a critical project that combines both environmental stewardship and coastal preservation. With the relocation of threatened species and the sustainable reuse of dredged material, the project sets a positive example for future dredging efforts along the coastline.