Authors: Wilber, D. H.; Clarke, D.G.
Year: 2007
Reference: Wilber, Dara H.; Clarke, Douglas G. (2007) Defining and Assessing Benthic Recovery Following Dredging and Dredged Material Disposal. Presentation from the 2007 WODCON XVIII Conference in Lake Buena Vista, FL
Summary: Benthic recovery rates range from several months to several years. If depths of placed material is limited to 20-30 cm, pre-existing benthos can migrate vertically. Areas with high wave and current energy are often held at early successional stages, and therefore recover more rapidly. Mud habitats recover faster (6-8 months) than sand and gravel (2-3 years). Proximity to unaffected areas also influences recovery time. Thin layer (< 15 cm) of beneficial use sediment in marsh habitats typically takes two growing seasons for plant recovery. Summary tables are provided. What You Will Find Here: Physical factors affecting recovery p. 604, Beneficial use p. 611