Maintaining the viability of commercial waterways is critical to our economy and the individual communities in which ports and harbors are located. These sites are often highly industrialized because of the cost advantages that immediate access to transportation affords. With the high degree of industrialization at these sites, contamination with hazardous substances can readily become an issue.
Jackson Gilmour & Dobbs, PC offers exceptional representation to ports and the governmental institutions that control waterways and navigation channels, and our professionals help these entities identify the party or parties responsible for sediment contamination within a port or harbor.
Contamination may go unnoticed for years, or even decades, as it may be deposited within the sediment at the bottom of the waterway. The contamination may be discovered during dredging or navigation operations. The Army Corps of Engineers is tasked with maintaining the viability of our waterways, and port authorities typically act as the local sponsor responsible for maintaining navigability. If dredged sediment contains hazardous substances, there will be additional, possibly massive, costs associated with the disposal of that sediment. Jackson Gilmour & Dobbs, PC has unique experience in representing public sector clients and port authorities in ensuring that the public does not bear these costs.
