Beneficial Use of Dredged Material in Virginia Panel Discussion on Purpose, Need, Challenges and Implementation
Waterbodies throughout Virginia require regular dredging to support commerce, recreation, and stormwater management. Dredged material from both navigation and stormwater projects has historically been referred to as “spoils” since locating suitable disposal locations is often challenging and can significantly increase project costs. The high costs associated with sediment sampling, permitting for overboard disposal projects, and the transport and tipping fees of upland facilities, combined with the growing impacts of sea level rise and the urgency of coastal resiliency initiatives, have accelerated the need for a more robust framework to support the beneficial use of dredged materials (BUDM). These uses encompass a wide range of applications, including the production of manufactured goods, soil amendments, habitat restoration, shoreline stabilization, and wetland creation. There are numerous challenges associated with moving the ideological pendulum from the association of dredged material as a “waste” product to the concept of developing a sustainable opportunity. The Commonwealth does not currently have a working process or policy aimed at aligning dredging projects with beneficial uses. Due to the challenges with coordinating design, permitting, construction, ecological and socioeconomic considerations, and financing, few projects have been implemented in Virginia to date. Experts from policy, engineering, planning and environmental sectors will discuss the challenges that facilitate or hinder the beneficial use of dredged material, highlighting key updates and recommendations. The session will also feature technical guidance, best practices, and emerging technologies that enhance the utilization of dredged materials. Panelists Mindy Strevig, PE, Senior Managing Engineer, Anchor QEA, Baltimore, Maryland Jefferson Flood, Coastal Planner, Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality Rachael Peabody, Director of Daily Operations, Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission Justin Shafer, PE, Coastal Resiliency Manager, Norfolk, Virginia
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