Dredging is set to begin at the entrance of Holland Harbor to remove accumulated sediment that could potentially impact commercial shipping. The U.S. Corps of Engineers Detroit District will start the dredging process as early as April 24 to prevent any disruptions to the local shipping industry. The removal of sediment is necessary to maintain proper depth for ships to enter the harbor at their maximum capacity. The project, costing $344,480, is part of a three-project contract that also includes Grand Haven and St. Joseph Harbors.
King Co. Inc., based in Holland, will use hydraulic dredging to remove approximately 12,400 cubic yards of sediment from the harbor entrance. The dredged material will be placed offshore to nourish the beach and mitigate erosion without the use of heavy machinery or pipes onshore. The public is advised to adhere to safety signage and broadcast warnings during the dredging process, which is authorized for 24-hour operation.
In contrast, the Grand Haven dredging project has been rescheduled to 2026 after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers rejected a mandate from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) to test for PFAS chemicals in the sediment. The delay in dredging could impact local businesses and increase road construction costs if cargo deliveries are affected.
Overall, the dredging projects in Holland and Grand Haven highlight the importance of maintaining navigable waterways for commercial shipping and the potential challenges that arise when environmental concerns intersect with infrastructure projects.
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