Define dredging in the context of waterway management.

Dredging is defined as the removal of sediment and debris from water bodies, making it an essential practice in waterway management. This process is crucial for maintaining navigable waterways, as accumulated sediment can inhibit boat passage and impact aquatic ecosystems. Dredging helps to restore waterways to their designed depth and width, thereby improving flow characteristics and reducing flooding risks.

Additionally, it can be vital for the maintenance of harbors, marinas, and navigation channels, where it ensures that vessels can safely navigate through potentially hazardous areas. Dredging can also be employed to remove pollutants or toxic materials from the water body, contributing to environmental cleanup efforts. By removing unwanted sediment and debris, dredging supports a healthier and more functional aquatic habitat, which is imperative for both wildlife and human activities that rely on these waterways.