Benthic testing for ocean outfall Oct. 2 & 3

One of the terms of the subaqueous lands permit for the outfall is for the city to perform a 

. This consists of taking samples from the ocean bottom in the area of the outfall prior to construction and for three years after construction. Samples are to be taken in the spring and summer of each year and analyzed for sediment characteristics and organisms. The work has been delayed the past several weeks due to weather. The sampling will be performed along the open cut trench and at the diffuser section. Samples will be taken to a depth of about four inches. This study is to evaluate the ocean bottom recovery from the construction activity and to assess any impact of the operation of the outfall. Our engineers, GHD, have notified the city that the contracted firm, Versar, is taking samples Monday, October 2, and Tuesday, October 3. For additional ocean outfall information, please visit cityofrehoboth.com. Please direct questions to the Communications Department at 302-227-2772 or [email protected].