It’s that time of year again! Dredging/Sand Replenishment has begun. Each year we get several questions from guests that aren’t exactly sure what it is or how it will affect their stay. Below we’ve complied a list of FAQs on the subject to help our guests better understand what is going on.
*Updated for the 2023 Season
Dredging/Sand Replenishment FAQs
What is Dredging/Sand Replenishment?
Dredging is a process used to remove accumulated sediment from the bottom, and in some cases, the banks or sides of a river, lake, harbor, or other body of water and place it somewhere else. A specialized piece of equipment called a Dredge creates a vacuum that sucks up and pumps out the unwanted sediment. (Source: Geoform International)
In Oceanside, the equipment is inserted into the harbor bed and sand is pumped through and placed on to various locations along the coastline.
Why do we need it?
Throughout the year the Ocean’s current takes sand away from the shore and it piles up in the harbor entrance making it more shallow and difficult for boats to enter the harbor over time. This Sand Replenishment process also ensures our beaches stay beautiful and full of soft sand for your enjoyment.
When does it happen?
Typically the process starts sometime in April each year and finishes sometime before the Memorial Day holiday.
For the 2022 season, it begins on April 11th with preparing the harbor and beach to receive the equipment. Tasks such as floating plastic pipe to Harbor Beach, placing Snow fencing around all work areas, using ATV’s to lead all movement of equipment on the beach, and placing the steel pipe.
How long does it last?
While the fact that the tide, weather, and other outside factors can have an effect on the completion of this project, they have promised that at its latest the Dredging/Sand Replenishment process will be completed and all equipment gone by Memorial Day. They hope to be finished a lot sooner than that.
How is North Coast Village affected?
Each year they place material on North Coast Village beach area for approximately 2-3 days, depending on how much sand is needed. During the time they are depositing sand in front of North Coast Village, there may be additional noise. When sand is taken from the bottom of the harbor, rocks enter the pipe as well and can bang against the pipe walls. Another source of noise may be the construction equipment used to place the pipes and move sand along the beach. This equipment is only operated during daylight hours.
Can I still use the beach?
Yes! They will run a pipe along the beach but provide access points along
the line by covering the pipe with sand. The pipe itself is only about 3ft
tall so it’s easy to climb over if needed (also keeps tiny kiddos away from
the water easily. ) Most of all, there is plenty of sand behind and in front
of the pipe making the beach easy to enjoy during the process.
Where can I learn more about Dredging/Sand Replenishment in Oceanside?
We will be posting all Dredging/Sand Replenishment updates for the City of Oceanside Harbor on our Facebook page. You may also get current information about the Dredging/Sand Replenishment process by visiting the Oceanside Harbor Facebook Page or call 760-435-4031.
