U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) announced more beneficial use opportunities for dredging material in Mobile Bay.
The dredged material is part of the widening and deepening of the harbor at the Port of Mobile. The project will create more economic opportunities for the state and nation.
However, environmental groups have been complaining about how the material is being used and raising questions about its impact on wildlife.
“Alabama has been blessed with incredible natural resources, and we need to make sure we are utilizing them to strengthen our state and our future,” said Britt.
Britt said Tuesday there are three major projects that could help with that. An additional $47 million for United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) operations and maintenance of the Mobile Ship Channel, funds for a federal study on sediment flows and a 2024 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) addition to ensure dredge materials are used in beneficial ways.
“Whether it’s sand to restore Dauphin Island or material for wetlands creation, it’s our responsibility to steward these resources and ensure their beneficial use at every opportunity,” said Britt. “I’m proud to work with the Port of Mobile and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to enact critical legislation and strategic investments to ensure that the Port’s vital work can continue to provide important conservation benefits while supporting economic growth and good-paying jobs across all 67 of Alabama’s counties.”
“Senator Britt has always been a champion of the Port, and that work doesn’t stop in Mobile,” said Alabama Port Authority director and CEO John C. Driscoll. “The growth of the Port statewide, and our inland intermodal facilities, in particular, are dependent on deeper water and keeping the Mobile Ship Channel open for business. We appreciate her leadership in ensuring that Port projects can move forward and benefit our entire state and its natural resources.”
The Port of Mobile has committed to using all eligible material for beneficial use.
The Mobile Baykeeper is hosting a town hall on Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. at Saint Philip Neri Parish to discuss concerns.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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