Beneficial Use (Outcome 5)
Forecasted
Beneficial Use (Outcome 5) supports local governments and nonprofits preparing projects that reuse dredged sediment to restore habitat and strengthen community resilience in Maryland’s Coastal Zone.
Funder: Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2027 (Beneficial Use application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Typical project costs: $30,000–$100,000 for assessment, planning, design, and permitting
Summary: Supports project preparation that treats dredged sediment as a resource for habitat restoration and community resilience.
Key Information: Projects must be located within Maryland’s Coastal Zone and demonstrate formal partnerships with dredging authorities.
Description
Beneficial Use (Outcome 5) is administered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Watershed & Climate Services through Grants Gateway. Supported by the Maryland Coastal Zone Management Award from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, it funds assessment, planning, design, and permitting for projects that treat dredged sediment as a resource. The opportunity supports local governments and nonprofit organizations preparing beneficial-use projects within Maryland’s Coastal Zone.
Supported work includes planning wetland restoration using dredged material, feasibility studies for stabilizing eroding shorelines or islands with local sediment, underwater grass restoration, and fish or shellfish habitat enhancement. Projects may also develop local sediment management plans that connect community dredging needs with restoration sites. The program emphasizes advancing local beneficial-use policies, collaboration with dredging authorities, and alignment between material sourcing and dredging schedules.
