Together with the Aa en Maas Water Board, we will be dredging ditches and streams in the municipality in the coming period. Using machines, we remove sediment, which mainly consists of mud, sand, and silt. This improves the quality of the water because it then flows better. We will work in De Herven, Hintham North and Hintham South, Aawijk South, Business Park De Brand, Bazeldonk, Pettelaar Park, and De Vliert.
Why do we do this?
Dirt and sediment accumulate on the bottom and edges of streams and ditches. This layer thickens over the years and the water becomes shallower. Also, less oxygen reaches the water. As a result, (water) animals can die. That is why we dredge once every seven years.
Dredging reduces the chance of odor and improves the living environment for animals. They then have enough water and places to overwinter. However, we do not remove all sediment. Some species use it as shelter or habitat. Therefore, we always seek a good balance.
Preventing fish from suffocating
While working, we ensure that animals in and around the water have time to move. We do this, among other things, by working from one side only. We monitor the oxygen level and turbidity of the water. This prevents fish from suffocating. We also dredge deliberately in winter. It is then not breeding season for animals and plants hardly grow.
The dredging activities last until March. The second round is from September to December. The contractor works with multiple teams simultaneously at different locations in the neighborhood. If you have questions about this, please contact us.