Posted on March 2, 2021
SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTGS) — During normal operations and maintenance dredging in preparation for the continued deepening of the Savannah River, dredgers under contract to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said Friday they discovered several historical artifacts that do not appear to be related to the CSS Georgia.
In an abundance of caution to adhere to the letter and spirit of federal and maritime laws, officials said all dredging in the area ended.
Engineers said a work suspension at the discovery area will give officials and scientists time to evaluate the find and determine the best course of action.
According to a release, Savannah District officials contacted other agencies that may have insight into the artifacts and their origin and their proper disposition.
The Savannah District said it will provide additional information as the investigation progresses.
Dredging and deepening the Savannah harbor will continue as scheduled.
The deepening of the harbor will return $7.30 to the nation for each $1 spent on the project for a net benefit of $282 million annually, the release said.
