Dredging

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-008531",
  "term": "Dredging",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "1. A method for deepening streams, swamps or coastal waters by scraping and removing solids from the bottom. The resulting mud is usually deposited in marshes in a process called filling. Dredging and filling can disturb natural ecological cycles. For example, dredging can destroy oyster beds and other aquatic life; filling can destroy the feeding and breeding grounds for many fish species.\n\n2. Removal of mud from the bottom of water bodies. This can disturb the ecosystem and causes silting that kills aquatic life. Dredging of contaminated muds can expose biota to heavy metals and other toxics. Dredging activities may be subject to regulation under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.\n\n3. Removal of material from the bottom of a water body by excavation or similar removal activity.\n\n4. Removal of mud from the bottom of water bodies",
  "subject": "Water",
  "references": [
    "Aquatic Biodiversity Glossary",
    "Terms of Environment",
    "Contaminated Sediments Glossary & Acronyms",
    "Region 5 Cleanup Site: Environmental Glossary"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/dredging/"
}