Suffolk Reporter

Montauk, NY - Congressman Nick LaLota has announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will commence emergency dredging at Montauk Inlet starting February 14. This decision follows weeks of discussions and a recent Zoom meeting where LaLota emphasized the urgent need to address hazardous shoals affecting safety and the local maritime economy. He has been actively collaborating with various government levels and stakeholders, including the Long Island Commercial Fishing Association.

“This commitment from the Army Corps of Engineers is a victory for Montauk’s commercial and recreational fishermen, local businesses, and our regional economy. Hazardous shoaling poses serious safety and economic risks, and an emergency dredge is absolutely necessary to protect jobs, livelihoods, and safe navigation,” said LaLota. “I’ve been in direct contact with the Army Corps, the Suffolk County Executive’s office, and local fishermen to cut through red tape and get this project moving. Now, we are on track for a swift resolution that supports Long Island’s maritime economy.”

Shoaling has significantly reduced Montauk Inlet's depth over time, making it unsafe for large fishing vessels. Many fishermen have had to dock in Port Judith, Rhode Island instead of Montauk due to these conditions.

The inlet was initially scheduled for dredging last year to reach a depth of 17 feet but faced delays pushing it back to later this year. The USACE confirmed that the emergency dredge planned for 12 feet will not affect the larger project.

Two weeks ago, USACE conducted a site survey confirming severe shoaling conditions. They have secured funding and authority for deploying USACE Dredge Murden—a vessel currently in the region—to carry out emergency dredging promptly.