Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Fundamentals of Dredging

• Understand the purpose and applications of dredging in port maintenance, navigation channels, and land reclamation.
• Identify different types of dredging operations:
• Maintenance dredging (removal of accumulated sediments).
• Capital dredging (deepening of waterways and harbor expansion).
• Environmental dredging (contaminated sediment removal).
• Learn about dredging project planning and feasibility assessments.

2. Types of Dredging Equipment and Technologies

• Understand the operation and applications of:
• Cutter suction dredgers (CSD).
• Trailing suction hopper dredgers (TSHD).
• Backhoe and grab dredgers.
• Water injection dredgers (WID).
• Auger and hydraulic dredging systems.
• Learn equipment selection criteria based on project scope and environmental conditions.

3. Siltation Processes and Sediment Dynamics

• Define siltation and its impact on waterways, ports, and ecosystems.
• Understand natural and human-induced causes of sediment deposition.
• Analyze sediment transport processes in rivers, estuaries, and coastal zones.

4. Dredging Project Management and Execution

• Develop dredging schedules and project logistics.
• Implement site surveys, sediment sampling, and hydrographic measurements.
• Apply GIS and remote sensing tools for sediment monitoring.

5. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in Dredging

• Identify potential environmental risks of dredging and sediment disposal.
• Implement mitigation measures for turbidity, habitat disruption, and water quality.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations (MARPOL, EPA, IADC, USACE, EU WFD).

6. Siltation Management and Sediment Control Strategies

• Apply sediment bypassing, dredged material reuse, and containment techniques.
• Use silt curtains, geotextiles, and sediment traps to control turbidity.
• Develop long-term strategies for reducing siltation through watershed management.

7. Regulatory Compliance and Dredging Permits

• Understand national and international dredging regulations.
• Learn about dredging permit requirements and environmental monitoring obligations.
• Ensure best practices for sustainable dredging operations.

8. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Analyze successful dredging and siltation control projects worldwide.
• Participate in practical exercises for dredging planning and sediment management.
• Develop a customized dredging and siltation management plan for a given site.

Target Audience

• Dredging contractors and marine construction professionals
• Port and harbor authorities
• Coastal engineers and environmental managers
• Hydrographic surveyors and sedimentologists
• Government agencies and regulatory bodies overseeing dredging activities