York County signs dredge operations agreement with Saco

ALFRED - York County is moving forward with operationalizing the dredge with the signing of the first MOU agreement with a municipality. 

At their April 10th meeting, the York County Commission voted unanimously to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding agreement with the City of Saco that outlines a framework for the use and funding of dredge operations. 

“The dredge will be a critical tool to help restore our dunes and beaches and make our coast more resilient to future storms,” says County Commissioner Justin Chenette, whose district includes Saco and Old Orchard Beach. “I will continue to push for Saco to be one of the first to benefit from county-led dredge operations because of the level of erosion we are experiencing and our urgent need in Camp Ellis.”

County officials have engaged 6 other municipalities that plan to sign a similar agreement, especially considering the damage from the January storm.

The dredge is currently being housed at Saco Public Works and is the process of being transported to Portland for painting and full assembly. Early next month the dredge will be towed down to Wells Harbor to house it there. 

Dredging projects would begin later this year after more formal contracts and project specifics are crafted.