Posted on December 5, 2022
On November 16-17, over 70 stakeholders of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW) gathered in Norfolk, Virginia to discuss the management of this vital marine highway. Participants included representatives of federal agencies who are responsible for managing the waterway along with commercial, recreational, and state and local interests. Highlights of the event inlcuded:
- A State of the Waterway Update from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – North and South Atlantic Divisions, and Corps Districts along the Eastern Seaboard
- Presentations from our federal partners at the Maritime Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation, and National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration
- A View from Washington, D.C. from the National Waterways Conference and BoatU.S.
- Panels on Offshore Wind Development and local Virginia projects and challenges
- The AIWA Annual Meeting and Recap of our 2022 Efforts and Successes
In addition, Kristin Meira shared information about the American Cruise Line operations as our luncheon speaker.
One of the most interactive topics was covered by Ed Tillet and Bob Sherer. Ed set the stage on the topic “Utilizing input from the recreational boating community to better manage the AIWW,” and Bob walked participants through specific cases where we have “moved the AIWW” to utilize naturally deep channels to reduce dredging needs, and new AIWW stretches for exploration and consideration. We are strong supporters of management alternatives that lessen dredging frequency while maintaining commercial shipping viability, and look forward to continue exploring this initiative with them.
We are thankful for all who attended and participated through their presentations and active Q&A. We look forward to providing additional information on federal funding when it becomes available, and one of many good news takeaways is that federal dredging projects are scheduled or are underway for every state along the AIWW.
The PowerPoint presentations are posted on the AIWA annual meeting webpage and can be accessed by clicking here.
