Posted on September 29, 2025
Rotterdam, the Netherlands – Van Oord and Fraser River Pile and Dredge (FRPD) announce that their newly formed partnership, RiverFlow Dredging (RiverFlow), has entered into a long-term agreement with the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority to provide maintenance dredging services for the Fraser River navigation channel. The partnership will ensure safe access for marine traffic to the Port of Vancouver, Canada’s largest port.
The Fraser River is a critical transport artery for local and national supply chains in Canada. RiverFlow’s scope of work encompasses annual maintenance dredging of the Fraser River South Arm deep-sea channel, including the berths and approaches to the DP World Fraser Surrey marine terminal. Approximately 3.0 to 4.5 million cubic metres of sediment will be dredged annually to keep the river navigable for deep-sea vessels.
‘This partnership marks a significant step in strengthening Van Oord’s presence in Canada. Together with FRPD, we are combining over a century of dredging expertise to ensure safe and efficient access to one of Canada’s most vital waterways.’
August Runge, Director Dredging & Infra, Van Oord
Inclusive dredging programme
RiverFlow is committed to an inclusive and environmentally responsible dredging programme that respects and considers all of the communities that depend on the health of the Fraser River and its surroundings, including indigenous groups, recreational users, and residents. The works will also be carried out in an environmentally conscious manner, incorporating best management practices for dredging operations. For example, the equipment used for dredging will be powered by biofuels to help reduce carbon emission intensity, and dredging activities will adhere strictly to marine mammal protection zones and non-dredging windows to safeguard the environment.
Sean Baxter, Director, Marine Operations and Harbour Master, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority: ‘Ensuring cargo moves safely and efficiently to and from Port of Vancouver terminals is essential for Canadian goods and commodities to reach international markets, and for Canada to access critical imports. With over $100 billion worth of international trade flowing through the Fraser River annually, maintenance dredging is integral to safe marine operations along this vital trade corridor for the port, British Columbia, and Canada. The port authority is pleased to partner with RiverFlow for the delivery of annual maintenance dredging activities on the Fraser River, beginning in 2026. Our long-standing relationship with FRPD – now forming the joint venture RiverFlow – will ensure this work continues to be carried out safely, efficiently, and with respect for the environment, and local First Nations and communities, over the coming years.’
Sarah Clark, President and Chief Executive Officer, FRPD: ‘Working in partnership with the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority and with Van Oord through RiverFlow, FRPD is thrilled to continue its role in ensuring the Fraser River is well-maintained to enable our supply chain and in support of all river users. Combining our local knowledge and dredging expertise with Van Oord’s international dredging expertise will ensure that the river is maintained to the high standard required for the efficient flow of cargo.’
