Rates and Effects of Sedimentation in the Context of Dredging and Dredged Material Placement

Abstract : Dredging and disposal of dredged material in aquatic environments can expose animals and plants to episodic pulses of suspended sediment. Resuspended material can be deposited in thin layers adjacent to the dredging or disposal areas in some cases as much as several thousand meters distant (LaSalle et al. 1991). While our understanding of the potential effects of such far-field deposition is limited, some estuarine organisms may be highly sensitive to suspended sediments and certain life stages (eggs, juveniles) may be particularly affected by resuspension and deposition. In this report potential impacts of sedimentation (bedded materials) are reviewed with emphasis on those habitats believed to be most sensitive.