Over time, these waterways can become filled with sediment that makes them difficult to navigate and sometimes pose an environmental hazard. We depend on various waterways for several daily functions, ranging from transporting goods to commercial fishing and recreation. In coastal areas, sediment accumulation can cause beaches to erode. It can also lead to contamination that poses a threat to aquatic plant and wildlife. For instance, it can reduce the depth of the waterway and prevent the passage of ships. Sedimentation is a naturally occurring process where silt, sand and other debris accumulate on the bottom of rivers, lakes, canals or streams over time. An excessive build-up of sediment can cause a series of issues. Dredges are specialized pieces of equipment that create a vacuum to suck up and pump out the unwanted sediment and debris. Table Of Contents – Easily Jump To What You’re Looking For:ĭredging means the process of removing accumulated sediment from the bottom or banks of bodies of water, including rivers, lakes or streams.

Dredge boat meaning