Decoding sediment shifts in the Western Scheldt

Beens Groep - Dredging holds a maintenance contract to sustain navigable depths at key locations in the Western Scheldt. However, since early 2023, sediment accretion has intensified beyond expectations, raising questions about shifting underwater dynamics.

A data-driven investigation

The Weather Makers, in collaboration with Beens, conducted a comprehensive analysis of dredging data from multiple vessels. Gathering and standardizing years of dredging records was a challenge, but once compiled, this dataset provided critical insights when compared to historical trends.

Morphology in motion

The findings reveal a shift in the sedimentation behavior near the port. Sediment is accumulating faster, and dredging zones are shifting over time. More notably, the characteristics of the sediment itself have changed. This unexpected variation in composition is reducing dredging efficiency, with initial calculations indicating a 44% drop in productivity in one key section during 2023.

The bigger picture

The likely culprit? A morphological shift that is funneling finer silt into the harbor basin, altering its density and complicating dredging operations. Understanding these changes is crucial for optimizing future dredging strategies and maintaining the port’s long-term stability.

Sediment isn’t static—and neither is the science behind managing it.