The periodic dredging of the local harbors is a necessary component of keeping the harbor channels clear and allowing access for all types of vessels. Though the Sanctuary does not directly regulate or restrict the act of dredging itself, i.e. the removal of sediment from the harbors and their channels-- that activity is exemptfrom MBNMS regulations--the MBNMS does have a regulatory role when considering proposals to discard dredge disposal sediments offshore within the National Marine Sanctuary. Dredging generally occurs with harbors which are outside of the Sanctuary boundaries. More...