Update on Dredging at Port MacDonnell Harbor

Dredging works are currently in progress at Port MacDonnell Harbor to improve safety and access to the harbor, boat ramp and mooring ground.

The project will remove a significant accumulation of sandy materials at the harbor entrance and mooring grounds as well as a build-up of seaweed inside the (harbor) channel, improving safety and access to the harbor, boat ramp and mooring ground for all boat users.

Environmental management of dredging works at Port MacDonnell Harbor

Dredging of the area may create a moderate dredge plume (cloud of debris) in the immediate vicinity of the dredge and around the discharge/return water point. Dredge plume formation at and near the disposal site will be monitored to ensure the plume does not encroach on any sensitive ecosystems or affect the amenity/safety of beach swimming areas.

Organic materials dredged from the channel are being screened, drained, and progressively transported to the adjacent western beach or if causing too great a disturbance, offsite to the local transfer station.

Due to the presence of fine organic sludge in the seabed, fresh seaweed wrack is being removed first using a seaweed wrack screen where wrack will be progressively collected and removed.  Following this, sludge will be pumped into geobags which filter sediment and allow silt free water to be released to drain.  Both methods will require temporary space on the park directly east of the boat ramp to enable a good working area with drainage.  This temporary works area will be required for approximately two months.  The area will be landscaped, and grass re-established at the end of the project.

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) have been consulted recognising that short-term odour may occur with the seagrass wrack and silt being dredged. Sediments dredged near the breakwater in the mooring grounds will comprise of sandy materials and are not likely to generate any persistent odour.

Noise levels will be reduced between 10pm and 7am to limit the impact on nearby residents.

Thank you for your patience while these important works are undertaken.