Skip to main content

Understanding Dredging

Become a member

Frequently Asked Questions

What is dredging?

Dredging is the underwater excavation of soils and rock. The process consists of four phases: 

  • Excavation
  • Vertical transport
  • Horizontal transport
  • Placement or use of the material dredged.

For a quick summary read: Dredging: the facts

What is the professional scope of CEDA?

CEDA’s professional interest covers all aspects of dredging, reclamation and related fields in the marine, estuarine and riverine environments. This includes the design and execution of a broad range of dredging projects, development of dredging technology, the design and construction of dredging vessels, dredging equipment and ancillary equipment and associated technical, scientific, environmental, contractual, managerial, legal and financial and communications aspects.  

In terms of disciplines CEDA’s scope encompasses engineering and the environmental and social sciences.  

What is the geographical scope of CEDA?

CEDA’s geographical scope is Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). CEDA has two sister associations, the Western Dredging Association (WEDA) that covers the Americas and the Eastern Dredging Association (EADA) that covers the Far East and Pacific region. These three associations make up WODA, the World Organisation of Dredging Associations. Click here to see our family tree.  

What are the acronyms CEDA, EADA, WEDA, WODA, EuDA and IADC?

These acronyms each stand for the following international dredging associations: 

  • CEDA:
  • EADA:
  • EuDA:
  • IADC:
  • WEDA:
  • WODA:
  • Central Dredging Association
  • Eastern Dredging Association
  • European Dredging Association
  • International Association of Dredging Companies
  • Western Dredging Association
  • World Organisation of Dredging Associations. (Members are CEDA, EADA and WEDA)


What are the similarities and differences between CEDA, EADA, WEDA, WODA, EuDA and IADC?

Click here for a quick explanation.

Who are members of CEDA?

CEDA members are a mix of individuals, and corporate, trade and academic organizations in the public and private sectors. They are representative of consultancies, research and educational institutions, port authorities, government agencies, dredging contractors, designers and builders of dredging vessels, suppliers of ancillary equipment, and organizations providing a whole range of related services. The main thing they all have in common is a passion for dredging. 

Why should I join as a Corporate Member?

CEDA membership provides organizations with an excellent opportunity to raise their profiles and professionally engage with all their stakeholders. An added bonus of corporate membership is that employees are also welcomed as members which can only enhance their professional advancement in the dredging community. By joining as a Corporate Member your organization can be an active participant of the international dredging community by supporting the exchange of objective, state-of-the-art knowledge and best practice on all aspects of dredging.

Why should I set up a corporate employee account?

If your organisation is a corporate member of CEDA then you are too – by association. Make sure you benefit from that membership by creating your own personal CEDA member’s account. If you have your own account you will be able to network with fellow professionals, access member-only content on the CEDA website, and register for CEDA events at the members’ discount.  If you’re not sure if your organisation is a CEDA member please check the Corporate Members’ list.

Are there special fees and/or other benefits for students?

Yes, students get 70% discount on the membership fee and pay only €25.00 per year.

Does CEDA lobby?

No, CEDA does not engage in any lobbying.

What does CEDA do?

Our primary objective is the creation and dissemination of objective, high-quality knowledge on all aspects of dredging including technical, scientific, regulatory, contractual managerial, financial and communications aspects.  Activities include: authoring and publishing industry documents, organizing congresses, seminars, workshops and training courses, and input into policy development processes.