The Town of Cobourg announces that annual dredging operations are soon to begin at the harbour

Cobourg Marina. By Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM, LJI

By Cecilia Nasmith, Northumberland 89.7 FM News

Cobourg

The Town of Cobourg advises residents of the annual dredging operations to take place in the Cobourg Harbour during April and May.

The process involves removing accumulated sand and silt, which contribute to shallow water levels and hinder boat anchoring and navigation. Maintaining proper harbour depths ensures continued accessibility and functionality for boaters and other recreational users.

Dredging will begin at the harbour entrance to allow for the safe return of the Coast Guard. Additional dredging will be done as required throughout the summer season to maintain optimal depth, with staff working around the activities taking place along the waterfront.

Then there's dewatering of sand on the beach. During April, May and early June, visitors to the waterfront will notice piles of sand and holes in the beach to allow lake water to seep out of the dredged sand – after which the sand will be trucked off-site. Fencing may be installed to ensure public safety during these operations.

This work had to be contracted out until 2009, when the town purchased the Marie Dressler Dredge. It not only services the town's harbour each year but also serves as something of a business venture, renting out the service to maintain the harbours and waterways of neighbouring municipalities. This year, following the dredging at the mouth of the Coburg Harbour, the dredge will be hauled away to complete such a job in May.

Residents along Third Street, Hibernia and Marissa Lane will notice the presence of the dredge supply trailer parked in the Marina parking lot. It will be there when dredge supplies are needed on-site and, otherwise, will be moved to the boat storage compound.

For more information, contact the Town of Cobourg Marina at 905-372-2397 or cobourgmarina@cobourg.ca