Ocean City Inlet will be dredged in early October after summer shoaling issues
The Ocean City Inlet will be dredged in early October after numerous complaints from marina operators, charter boat captains and commercial fishermen.
Watermen noted the consistent shoaling issue during three stakeholder meetings organized by State Sen. Jim Mathias, who partnered with Sen. Ben Cardin, according to a release from Mathias' office.
Commercial and recreational users of the inlet, marinas and back bays said shifting sands drifting into the area have made the channel too shallow to be easily and safely navigated, threatening their livelihoods.
As a result of the meetings, Mathias requested surveys through the Department of Natural Resources that revealed hazardous areas in the Inlet, and a three-day period in early October has been scheduled for additional dredging of the area, according to the release.
In an effort to address concerns about shoaling in the Ocean City Inlet, Maryland Sen. Jim Mathias has partnered with local marina operators, commercial fishermen and charter boat captains, according to a release.
Commercial and recreational users of the Inlet, marinas and back bays said shifting sands drifting into the area have made the channel too shallow to be easily and safely navigated, threatening their livelihoods.
Three stakeholder meetings took place through the summer, resulting in action that Mathias, who partnered with Sen. Ben Cardin, said will provide both immediate and long-term solutions to the benefit of local watermen, according to the release.
"These meetings show that government is responsive and really does work for the stakeholders, and should give maritime industry leaders confidence in their elected officials,” Mathias said.
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As a result of these meetings, Mathias requested surveys through the Department of Natural Resources that revealed hazardous areas in the Inlet, and a three-day period in early October has been scheduled for additional dredging of the area, according to the release.
"This is a start, and as we continue moving forward to accomplish long-term solutions protecting the Ocean City Inlet, it's yet another example of what we can accomplish by working together," Cardin said.
Additionally, the meetings prompted Worcester County Commissioners to request an evaluation of the costs and lost revenue that occurred as a result of the shoaling's effect on businesses, according to the release.