Oak Harbor commissioners discuss dredging, breakwater repairs, port-district exploration and marina operations

Oak Harbor Marine Advisory Commission members received updates on marina dredging, breakwater damage and long-term funding options at their March meeting, and approved a $3,000 purchase of 10 dock carts.

A preliminary suitability report for dredged material showed higher dioxin concentrations in near‑shore sediments around the A and B dock areas, but engineers told the commission that blended dredging of the marina footprint (mixing nearshore spoils with outer‑harbor material) would likely meet disposal thresholds. The city is awaiting a formal determination from the Dredged Material Management Office (DMMO) before submitting draft permits, and staff warned that upland disposal would increase spoil‑disposal costs by an order of magnitude.

Why it matters: The marina’s dredging and breakwater repairs are tied together—the presence of nearshore contaminants affects disposal options and cost, and the breakwater’s condition is exacerbated by shoaling. Commissioners said the city must decide whether to pursue a full dredging and breakwater replacement program now or a smaller phased dredge that would free funds for immediate breakwater work.

Dredging, dioxins and permitting

City staff said preliminary tests found…