The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District (USACE), announced that dredging operations in Grand Haven Harbor will resume today. This decision follows additional testing for E. coli and the implementation of increased safety measures.
Resumption of Dredging Operations
Under an Army Corps contract, King Co. Inc., based in Holland, will dredge the outer harbor’s remaining 35,000 cubic yards of sediment. The objective is to maintain navigability in the commercial channel for the rest of the year. Dredging operations were temporarily halted last week as a precautionary measure after high levels of E. coli were detected at North Park Beach in Ferrysburg. This prompted a “no body contact” warning from the Ottawa County Health Department.
Collaboration for Public Safety
The cause of the E. coli contamination has yet to be determined. However, the authorities suspect heavy rainfall in the Grand River watershed is a potential source. Ottawa County lifted the E. coli warning order on Saturday after subsequent tests indicated safe water conditions around the park.
To ensure the public’s safety, the Army Corps collaborated with the Ottawa County Health Department and the state of Michigan to develop a comprehensive testing plan. Rapid testing will be conducted at various points, including the river, the dredging pipeline outflow, and specific areas around the pipeline.
Liz Newell Wilkinson, Grand Haven resident engineer, urged the public to refrain from swimming in the area until the completion of dredging activities and the removal of warning flags. The enhanced testing protocols will enable the Army Corps to work while prioritizing public safety.
TRACE Analytical Laboratories, based in Muskegon, will analyze water samples collected during the active dredge material placement operation at North Park Beach. It will use the HACH M-ColiBlue24 method for E. coli detection. These tests will be conducted daily throughout the dredging period. The results will be shared in coordination with the county for public health awareness.
To discourage swimming near the dredging equipment, the Army Corps will implement additional safety measures, including placing signs and fencing 100 yards around the dredging material placement site at North Park Beach. All residents and beachgoers are advised to stay clear of the construction zone, and safety cones have been set up around areas of active demolition and pipeline discharge.