Bath Iron Works Sinking Basin Maintenance Dredging 2013

In 2013, CASHMAN was contracted to conduct deepwater navigation maintenance dredging at the Bath Iron Works (BIW) dry-dock sinking basin. BIW is a major U.S. shipyard located on the Kennebec River and since its founding in 1884, has built private, commercial and military vessels, most of which have been ordered by the U.S. Navy. Part of General Dynamics Marine Systems, Bath Iron Works is a full-service shipyard specializing in the design, building, and support of complex surface combatants for the U.S. Navy. The shipyard has built and designed battleships, frigates, cruisers, and destroyers, including the Arleigh Burke-class, which are currently among the world’s most advanced surface warships. 


PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS 

• CASHMAN was contracted to dredge and dispose of ~48,000 yd³ of dredge spoils. 
• The sinking basin was dredged to -70 feet (+1-foot of overdredge) to enable BIW to launch new ships. 
• Material was placed at the in-river disposal site at Bluff Head, ~2.5 nautical miles downstream on the Kennebec. 
• The Kennebec has swift currents and tide variations of up to 10 feet. Due to project depths/river conditions, CASHMAN operated its dredge, the FJ Belesimo, on wires & anchors. 
• The project was completed ahead of schedule during challenging weather conditions.