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Delaware River and Estuary Ecosystem Data Gathering Initiative

The Data Gathering Initiative (DGI) is a database of information for companies to use in preparing permit applications, particularly related to environmental impact assessments in the Delaware River Basin.

BACKGROUND

The Exchange’s Private Berth Dredge Committee (PBD) is comprised of government agencies and industry stakeholders who are committed to promoting the sustainable growth and development of industries that rely on the Delaware River.  The PBD identified the DGI as a unique and much-needed approach to facilitating consistent maintenance and construction permit application and approval processes by updating data on movements and habitats of certain endangered species—most notably Atlantic sturgeon—and sharing information among maritime businesses.

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THE ISSUE

Applicants experience numerous challenges when pursuing permits for dredging, construction, and rehabilitation.  Foremost among these are uncertainty over expected response dates and delays that extend into environmental windows when such activity is prohibited.  Such delays can jeopardize navigational safety and dramatically impede commerce if public or private entities are unable to clear dangerous shoals.  In addition, when environmental windows close, the multiple parties waiting to begin work must all start at the same time, leading to a shortage of available equipment to meet the total need.

THE SOLUTION

The PBD determined the problem lied in part with a lack of a comprehensive, accessible source to facilitate planning and review.  The DGI team identified, assembled, and validated, empirical data needed for permitting.   It collected comprehensive data and made it available in an easily accessible, centralized database for stakeholders.

The Data Gathering Initiative is the culmination of years of work by the PBD to benefit the Delaware River maritime industry by providing a database of industry, environmental, and regulatory information to help expedite waterfront construction and dredging operations. Working under the Maritime Exchange umbrella, the Delaware River maritime business community has a strong history of cooperation and open dialog to improve the overall competitiveness and viability of its rich and vibrant industry.