Shallow-draft hopper dredger Miss Katie hits the water

The official launch of the Miss Katie – the shallow-draft hopper dredger – took place at Conrad Shipyard in Morgan City, LA, on April 4, Dare County said.

Once the vessel is delivered to Dare County and successfully completes a series of required sea trials this summer, Miss Katie’s dredging operations will be managed by the Oregon Inlet Task Force.

It will be able to operate up to 12 hours a day (weather permitting), providing the strategic dredging that is needed to keep area waterways open and navigable for commercial and recreational vessels.

A christening ceremony will be held later this year to celebrate the completion of this highly anticipated project.