Who designates disposal areas?

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for designating disposal areas for dredged materials and other waste associated with navigation projects. This designation process is essential for ensuring that disposal areas are suitable in terms of environmental impact and compliance with regulations. The Corps collaborates with other agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency and local and state authorities, to determine where these areas can be located to minimize harm to the environment while facilitating necessary marine activities.

While other entities such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency have significant roles in marine and environmental management, the Corps is the primary federal agency involved in the specifics of designating the actual areas for disposal. Local Harbor Authorities may have input at a localized level, but it is the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that has the federal authority and responsibility in this context.