Despite a slow start, the Cape Jaffa Anchorage Marina dredging program is now making positive progress, the Kingston District Council said in the latest project update.
The work is progressing smoothly, with sand and seagrass movement around the western breakwater is now under control and dredging of the entrance channel is well underway.
“ Unfortunately, due to the enormous amount of sand and seagrass build up, a few more weeks is required before the Marina will be open to recreational fishers. The facility will remain closed at this time ,” the council said.
Maria Creek Boat Launching Facility
Within the next week or so, the marina visitors will see excavators begin work in Kingston to re-open the Maria Creek Recreational Boat Launching facility, according to the council’s update.
Work will begin on the southern side of the groyne removing seagrass and sand to create a buffer that will help prevent seagrass and sand from entering the channel.
Once a suitable buffer is achieved, work will begin inside the channel to excavate seagrass and sand. Excavation work is expected to take many weeks to complete.
Once excavators have done all they can an assessment of depth within and outside the channel will be conducted to determine dredging requirements.
If dredging is required, council’s dredge will be mobilized to Maria Creek. The facility will remain closed at this time, the council said.