The Case for Managed Open Water Disposal of Sediments Containing Low Levels of Dioxin

Berkovits, David; ,

The Case for Managed Open Water Disposal of Sediments Containing Low Levels of Dioxin

by David Berkovits, Port Authority of New York and New, Jersey, New York, United States,

Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Coastal Zone '91

Abstract:

Between 6 and 8 million cubic yards of material is dredged annually from the 240 miles of federal channels and approximately one million linear feet of berthage of the Port of New York/New Jersey. The Port is located in the Hudson/Raritan Estuary System. Without dredging, the controlling water depth would be only 19 feet - inadequate for use by deep draft vessels. Dredging is necessary in order to maintain channels for commercial and recreational vessels which contribute billions of dollars in economic activity essential to the region. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is applying for dredged material ocean disposal permits from the US Army Corps of Engineers pursuant to the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 and the prerequisite State Water Quality Certifications and Coastal Zone Management Consistency Determinations. This paper will analyze the process used to seek a solution for disposal of these sediments and explore the roles of the federal and state regulatory and resource agencies, community and civic groups, environmental advocates and permit applicants including the Port Authority.

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