Progress continues in Cotuit Channel

The Barnstable County (MA) dredge Sand Shifter continues to make steady progress on the Cotuit Channel dredging project.

Since the November 5th update, dredging has continued in Area 3. Despite the recent weather and mechanical delays, the crews are now halfway through this area.

As the work moved further south, additional lengths of pipe had to be added bringing the total length to ~11,300 feet.

Last week’s mechanical breakdown has been a reoccurring problem with the Sand Shifter. An electronic device that controls the shifting of the transmission failed and the backup valve that can be used to mechanically put the engine in and out of gear was not functioning (due to lack of use).

A replacement valve was ordered but unfortunately it was shipped via UPS Ground not UPS Next Day Air as planned. This delayed the installation of the part until November 26. The Sand Shifter was back out dredging tomorrow morning (Nov. 27).

A total of three dredging days were lost due to this delay with another six days lost due to weather/seas since starting this area.

One a positive note, the crews needed to replace the cutterhead on the dredge as it was heavily worn and wasn’t “cutting” as it should have been.

Attempts to remove the cutterhead were unsuccessful but Plan B was to weld on ‘teeth’ onto the blades. This work was done on Friday, November 22. This is expected to greatly increase the dredging efficiency.