Posted on June 8, 2026
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CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Charleston District is studying potential changes to how it maintains the federal navigation channel in Charleston Harbor and is seeking public input as part of the process.
The agency has announced plans to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to evaluate proposed updates to dredging operations and maintenance tied to the harbor’s deep-draft navigation project.
The proposed changes focus on updating how dredging is carried out, including when work can take place, how sediment is handled, and what environmental safeguards are in place.
According to the Army Corps, the goal is to improve operational flexibility while using the best available science to reduce environmental impacts.
The review is being conducted under the National Environmental Policy Act, a federal law that requires agencies to study environmental impacts, consider alternatives, and incorporate public feedback before making decisions.
Officials say the study will analyze possible effects on navigation, water quality and wildlife, including fish, sea turtles and marine mammals, along with impacts to recreation and cultural resources.
The project is currently in the “scoping” phase, when the public and other stakeholders can help identify issues and shape what is studied in the environmental review.
Residents can submit comments through June 29, 2026, by email at CESAC-CHOMEIS@usace.army.mil, through the project website, or by mail to the Army Corps Charleston District office.
An in-person public meeting is scheduled for June 10 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Marine Resources Research Institute auditorium on Fort Johnson Road. Two virtual meetings are also planned for June 16 and June 17.
The Army Corps expects to release a draft Environmental Impact Statement in the fall or spring 2027, followed by a public comment period. A final version and formal decision are anticipated in 2028.
Officials say the findings will help guide future dredging practices to ensure Charleston Harbor remains a safe and efficient corridor for commerce while balancing environmental considerations.
