Cobourg begins dredging at the harbour

Photo by Dan Jones, CFWN, LJI

By Cecilia Nasmith

The Town of Cobourg advises residents of dredging operations in the Cobourg Harbour that will be continuing into the fall season.

This operation becomes necessary at lower water depths, when dredging is needed to maintain water depth and allow safe passage for Coast Guard and other vessels, beginning at the entry to the harbour. During this time, staff make every effort to minimize disruptions, and work around activities taking place at the waterfront.

Maintaining proper depths ensures continued accessibility and functionality for boaters and recreational users. Mechanical dredging involves removing the accumulated sand and silt that contribute to shallow water levels and hinder boat anchoring and navigation.

Visitors to the waterfront will notice piles of sand and holes in the beach. These come from the dredging operations, with the sand deposited for a while to allow the water to percolate out of it before it is trucked away. Fencing is installed to ensure public safety at this time.

Residents along Third Street, Hibernia and Marissa Lane will notice the dredge supply trailer parked in the Marina parking lot. It is there to provide dredge supplies when needed. When not in use, it will be moved off-site.

Prior to 2009, the Town of Cobourg contracted out for its dredging. Then it purchased its own dredge and christened it Marie Dressler Dredge after the Oscar-winning actress who was born at 212 King St. W. Owning the equipment has also alowed the town to operate it as a business venture, renting out the service to maintain neighbouring municipalities' harbours and waterways.

For more information, contact Customer Service at 905-372-4301 or at customerservice@cobourg.ca