Maintenance dredging begins in Canada's Port Hope outer harbour

A suction dredging project to remove sediment build-up in the Port Hope outer harbour in Canada began on July 7. The work is expected to continue for several weeks.

According to the local municipality, the removed sediment will initially be placed on West Beach. The material will then be tested to ensure it conforms to standards set by the Ministry of Environment, Conservation, and Parks (MECP). If the sediment meets the standards, it will be used as a beach supplement on both the East and West Beaches. If it does not meet the standards, the material will be transported to a licensed landfill site.

Canadian Nuclear Laboratories will support the operation by testing for the presence of historic low-level radioactive waste (LLRW). Any contaminated materials detected will be taken to the long-term waste management facility in Port Hope.

The municipality stated that the boat launch and surrounding areas will remain open unless a closure is deemed necessary. Residents have been advised to stay clear of the dredged material placement site.