Why This Matters
The maintenance dredging of the Inlet is crucial for local commercial boats and visiting boaters from the tri-state area. By enhancing navigability, this project will create a safer experience for all, allowing for easier passage at all tides. As a federal channel, the Inlet has a designated federal anchorage at its southern end, right across from Strong's Water Club.
The Army Corps is mandated to maintain a depth of 7 feet at low tide for safety, ensuring that the waterway remains accessible.
The Mattituck Inlet is the sole option on the north shore between Greenport and Port Jefferson, providing refuge during severe storms on Long Island Sound.
What You Need to Know
The project, to be carried out by Seacoast Construction, a marine contractor based in West Sayville, is scheduled to start on October 1 and is anticipated to finish by early November, as stated by Southold Supervisor Al Krupski.
During this period, there will be disruptions, and we want to ensure our community is informed when entering and exiting the inlet. We encourage boaters to stay aware of the ongoing work within the channel.
Due to the dredging, the waterway will aim to maintain a depth of at least 7 feet at low tide, which could attract more commercial and recreational boaters to the North Fork and stimulate the local economy. Additionally, it will provide larger vessels with a safer passage through the harbor.
The federal initiative will extract approximately 9,985 cubic yards of silt from the north-to-south running creek costing about $3 million dollars. This silt removal involves a sophisticated double-barging method: initially loading into a smaller barge, then transferring to a larger barge, and ultimately transporting to Staten Island. There, the material will be utilized as landfill cover.
The successful execution of this project will benefit our community by improving access and safety in our waterways. Here’s to safer, more navigable waters in Mattituck Inlet!
About Strong's Marine
Strong's Marine has been a family owned business since 1945. In 2013, Strong's Marine acquired the marina in Mattituck, now known as Strong's Water Club & Resort. Strong's Marine has four locations in Mattituck including the flagship location at Mattituck Bay, Strong's Yacht Center, Strong's Main Road and of course the Strong's Water Club & Resort. You can find Strong's Marine across Long Island at our numerous locations including Port Washington, Freeport, Freeport, Southampton, Mattituck, and Cutchogue.
