Dredging works are progressing at Port MacDonnell to improve safety and access to the harbour, boat ramp and mooring ground.
The project, which started in late March, is removing a significant accumulation of sandy materials at the harbour entrance and mooring grounds as well as a build-up of seaweed inside the harbour channel.
A Department for Infrastructure and Transport spokesperson said the dredging would ensure the ongoing safe use of the harbour.
“Sand dredging has been completed with more than 68,000 cubic metres of sand removed from the harbour. About 2000 cubic metres of unconsolidated seaweed has also been removed,” the spokesperson said.
“Seagrass wrack removal has commenced, and organic materials dredged from the channel are being screened, drained and transferred to an area of grass directly east of the boat ramp.
“The area will be landscaped, with grass re-established upon completion of the project.
“It is expected full access to the harbour will be available by early August and the Port MacDonnell community will see the completion of remediation works by late September (weather permitting).
“The dredging works may create a sediment plume in the water in the immediate vicinity of the dredge.
“Any sediment plumes will be closely monitored to ensure they do not impact nearby ecosystems or affect the safety of swimming areas.”
The removal of seagrass wrack may result in a short-term odour, however sediments dredged near the breakwater were not likely to generate any persistent odour.
