Large accumulations of water from heavy rainfall may rush into and through a watershed, thereby reducing its natural ability to hold and slowly release water. The resulting floods may cause millions of dollars in damage. Dredging is the digging of channels through shallow bodies of water to allow the passage of larger ships and boats than would otherwise be naturally possible. These channels serve as transit systems for both industry and private use. Private citizens use these channels as a means of getting from one place to another for recreation.
Industry uses channels to haul cargo including oil, grain, and industrial supplies.
Dredging is necessary for the economy of the Coastal Bend because these channels enable a less expensive, efficient, and safer method of transportation for goods and supplies. Sometimes these materials are deposited back into the water in adjacent areas where they spread out with the aid of natural water circulation patterns. Dredge material islands can be seen as small linear islands along the Laguna Madre. Over a period of time, these islands become vegetated and provide nesting and roosting areas for shorebirds. However, dredging can also create problems for the plants and animals that inhabit our estuaries.