Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Maintenance dredging is currently underway at Perdido Pass to ensure the busy waterway remains clear and safe for navigation. The project, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, began in late November and is expected to be completed before Christmas, weather permitting.

Encore Dredging Partners is utilizing the large cutterhead dredge America to remove sand accumulation from key areas of the pass. The operation began north of the Perdido Pass Bridge, where crews removed approximately 50,000 cubic yards of sand. Rather than being discarded offshore, this material was strategically placed on Bird Island to support the popular coastal feature.

The dredge has since moved south of the bridge to continue cutting and vacuuming sand from the channel floor. This sediment is being pumped through pipelines and discharged onto the beach east of the jetty at Alabama Point, simultaneously deepening the channel and renourishing the shoreline.

Local officials emphasize that this routine maintenance is vital for preventing groundings and supporting the local economy. However, the work requires caution from the public. Boaters are urged to navigate carefully around heavy equipment, support vessels, and floating pipes, as conditions and equipment positions may shift daily. Similarly, beachgoers should respect posted signage and maintain a safe distance from machinery and pipelines at Bird Island and Alabama Point.

The City of Orange Beach expressed gratitude for the public's cooperation and patience during these temporary disruptions. If the project stays on schedule, commercial and recreational boaters can expect improved depths and safer navigation conditions by the holidays.