3. Different types of dredging

3.1 Maintenance dredging

For maintenance operations, distinctions can be made between :

• access channels to seaports, where sedimentation is mostly sandy;

• estuarine harbours, where sedimentation often consists of fine particles (Loire, Gironde) or a mixture of sand and silt (Seine);

• river access channels (waterways) ;

• afloat basins, where sedimentation is linked to the settling of suspended solids loaded with fine particles.

Several working methods need to be implemented to optimize dredging in these different situations.

• Seaport access channels...