WICOMICO COUNTY, MD — The beneficial reuse of dredged material from the Sharps Point Dredged Material Management Program (DMMP) site continues to deliver measurable environmental and economic benefits, as Phase II
of the project is now officially underway.
Areas where dredged material has been strategically placed are now thriving with healthy vegetation, demonstrating both the stability and long-term viability of the soils for uses beyond simple stockpiling and storage. What was once considered simple sediment or “spoils” has been transformed into a productive resource—supporting plant growth, enhancing soil quality, and contributing to a healthier ecosystem overall.
Dredged material is often misunderstood. In reality, when properly tested and managed, it is not hazardous. Before placement, all material undergoes rigorous environmental testing to ensure it meets strict regulatory standards. The
result is clean, nutrient-rich material that can be safely and effectively reused.
The environmental advantages are significant. The basic establishment of vegetation on re-used dredged material reduces erosion, improves water quality by naturally filtering runoff, and creates valuable habitat for local wildlife. These restored areas strengthen the resilience of the surrounding landscape and support long-term ecological health.
In addition to environmental gains, the approach offers clear economic benefits. Beneficial reuse reduces disposal costs, extends the lifespan of placement sites, and supports critical projects such as land restoration, shoreline stabilization,
and infrastructure development. This strategy maximizes the value of available resources while minimizing waste. On the heels of these concepts, the Department of Public Works recently announced its successful application submission to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Root for Resilience Initiative grant program for nearly 12 million dollars.
As Phase II of the Sharps Point Dredge material relocation presses on, and our team finalizes the last steps for USACE Maintenance Dredging of the Upper Wicomico River this season, we look forward to taking on new frontiers in shoreline/marsh restoration, habitat improvement, intertidal zone resiliency and other beneficial projects via direct-placement of future operations.
County officials also recognized the leadership and dedication behind the project’s success.
“Phase II marks an important step forward in building on the strong foundation already established at Sharps Point,” said County Executive Julie Giordano. “I want to commend Acting Director Adam Corry and the entire team for their
hard work, commitment, and forward-thinking approach. Their efforts are delivering real results for our environment and our community.”
The continued progress at Sharps Point demonstrates how innovative and responsible practices can turn operational necessities into long-term community assets. By rethinking how materials are managed, Wicomico County continues to advance solutions that support environmental stewardship, fiscal responsibility, and sustainable growth.
I call bullshit! who’s doing the testing and what are they testing for? no details here! just want us to trust the same folks who have screwed over the public before. Those running the dump like mr corry have failed to look out for the citizens of this county. We need a new landfill now because of all the out of state dumping which occured on their watch. and they never said a word while this was happening! wicomico river is so polluted from decades of oils trash runoff perdue waste, tell me again how wonderful and beneficial it is having it dumped here!