Harbor dredging begins in Grand Haven; boaters advised to exercise caution near pipeline
Dredging operations are underway at the outer Grand Haven Harbor as federal contractors work to clear accumulated sediment from the entrance of the Grand River, officials announced.
GRAND HAVEN — Dredging operations are underway at the outer Grand Haven Harbor as federal contractors work to clear accumulated sediment from the entrance of the Grand River, officials announced.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District, tasked Holland-based The King Co. Inc. with the hydraulic dredging project under a $546,000 contract. Operations began as early as July 17 and are scheduled for completion by the end of August.
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The maintenance effort targets shoaling within the federal navigation channel between the pier heads and extending into Lake Michigan.
“Maintaining the operational depth of Grand Haven Harbor is critical for the safety of our maritime community and the local economy,” said Liz Wilkinson, operations manager for the Corps' Grand Haven office.
“We are working diligently to ensure these vital operations are completed efficiently while keeping the public informed of our progress and safety protocols.”
Pipeline, safety information
The dredged material is being transported via a submerged pipeline and deposited near the shore in Lake Michigan.
The designated discharge area begins just north of the Brucker Street beach and stretches 3,500 feet northward in water depths of 8-12 feet. USACE officials noted that pre-project testing confirmed the sediment is safe and suitable for near-shore placement.
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Boaters and beachgoers in the area are advised to exercise caution:
- Pipeline markers: The underwater pipeline is marked with orange buoys placed every 500 feet, flanked by lit, bright yellow pontoons at both ends.
- Anchor locations: White buoys mark the position of anchors surrounding the dredge vessel.
- Mariner advisory: Navigators are urged to pass near the equipment at slow speeds and obey all temporary maritime signals.
The Detroit District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers oversees 81 harbors and navigation channels across 3,150 miles of Great Lakes shoreline in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Minnesota.
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