Environmental compliance of dredging works in the Western region of Abu Dhabi
Type:
Presented during:
CEDA Dredging Days 2012 - Virtue, Venture and Vision in the Coastal Zone
Authors:
Mackenzie J and Bose A - National Marine Dredging Company, United Arab Emirates
Abstract: The paper is to explain the various environmental compliance procedures and monitoring regimes and results carried out in accordance with the Dredging Environmental Management Plans for dredging works at various sites in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi over the last 24 months. Silt screens were deployed around the dredging area to protect the sensitive receptors. Daily water turbidity monitoring was carried out to ensure that a maximum of 10 NTU was maintained for ambient marine water in the dredging area. Recalamtion dikes / settlement ponds were constructed to provide suitable settlement for the dredging materials before discharging the return water back to the sea and to maintain 75 NTU at the discharge water to the sea. Real time monitoring was carried out to ensure prompt reactive measures could be taken to alter the dredge operations if required. Marine Mammals like dolphins, dugongs and turtles approaching the dredging area were also under continuous monitoring and detailed records were maintained. The paper explains in detail each procedure and how it helped to sustain the natural marine habitat during the dredging activities. Reactive and proactive measures to protect the virtue of the coastal zone during the dredge operation are also detailed.
Keywords: silt screens, turbidity, settlement ponds, marine mammals, monitoring, coastal zone