Disposal at Sea Info:

Beneficial Use Study

The Sand Heads Ocean Disposal Site was first used by the Department of Public Works in 1974 and has since received over 12 million cubic metres of sand. That is enough sand to fill BC Place Stadium three times over. In 2001, over 784 000 cubic metres of sand was approved for disposal at the Sand Heads Disposal Site.

Recent analysis of sediment transport trends, particle size distribution and known hydrodynamic and geophysical processes on Roberts Bank and Sturgeon Bank suggest the geo-physical characteristics of the area are changing. While the reasons for the changes are not clear, increased river channelization, the development of the Delta Port Terminal, and changing wave action have likely all had an impact. Consequently, Environment Canada and the Geological Survey of Canada, in partnership with the Fraser River Port Authority and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, are undertaking a two year study to assess dredge spoil disposal management practices and beneficial use options.

The goal of the study is to evaluate and compare the geological, oceanographic and biological implications of the current disposal site management practices and, if appropriate, identify placement options that would benefit the Roberts Bank ecosystem. If suitable placement options are identified, deemed appropriate, as well as logistically and economically manageable, disposal activities would be amended to reflect the beneficial use options.

STUDY DETAILS:

In 1995, Environment Canada funded a study entitled "Sediment Transport and its Environmental Implications in the Lower Fraser River and Fraser Delta" (McLaren and Ren, 1995). Based on an analysis sediment transport trends, particle size distribution, and known hydrodynamic and geophysical processes, McLaren and Ren proposed two options for sand disposal or placement on the adjacent tidal flats of the Fraser River delta (Figure 1). To date, these sites have not been evaluated in more detail however, dredging proponents have suggested "Site 2" (Figure 2) as having potential benefit for tidal flat maintenance or nourishment. Environment Canada (PYR) and the Geological Survey of Canada propose a study to assess ocean disposal management practices of dredging spoils at Sand Heads Ocean Disposal Site and study the site-specific sediment transport conditions at "Site 2", specifically to assess the potential for sediment remobilization at the site.

PARTNERSHIPS:

The Sand Heads Ocean Disposal Site - Roberts Bank Study is a government - industry collaborative effort between Environment Canada, the Fraser River Port Authority, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and the Geological Survey of Canada - Natural Resources Canada. While the specific interests vary, the common objective is to ensure that dredge spoils from the Fraser River are handled in an economically viable and environmentally responsible manner.

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