A draft copy of the "Methodology for Evaluation of Proposed Dredging Projects in Delaware's Inland Bays" can be viewed using Adobe Acrobat and the following link:

Methodology for Evaluation of Proposed Dredging Projects in Delaware's Inland Bays

In order to view the document more quickly it suggested to download the document using one's web browser and then use Adobe Acrobat 4.0 to view the document. Downloading can be accomplished by right clicking the link above and saving the document. In addition the maps contained in the document also can be downloaded individually and viewed in more detail using Adobe Acrobat. The links for these maps are the following:

Map 3-1

Map 4-1

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Map 6-1

All these documents also can be downloaded by accessing the following ftp address:

Ftp://deib.versar.com

One of the tactics developed in the "Delaware Inland Bays Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan" (1995), was to revisit the document that guided State dredging activities in the Bays' region since 1986, the "Inland Bays Dredging Study". Where appropriate, the Study would be revised and updated to protect important habitats by applying the most current aquatic habitat and living resource impact assessment methods and by ensuring that projects reflect the best dredging technologies and methods to minimize adverse impacts.

After receiving a federal grant through the Center for the Inland Bays and an appropriation from the General Assembly, the Department contracted Versar, Inc. of Columbia, Maryland, in 2000 to revisit the "Study" and bring it up to modern day standards. The revised dredging plan is entitled "Methodology for Evaluation of Proposed Dredging Projects in Delaware's Inland Bays". Following a public review period and workshop, the new dredging methodology will be incorporated into the State "Regulations Governing the Use of Subaqueous Lands" and be applicable to both private and State-funded dredging projects in the Inland Bays.