Introduction
- Brief overview of dredging: what it is, why it’s done (e.g., clearing navigation channels, extracting resources).
- Discuss how dredging can disturb ecosystems, resuspend pollutants, and damage habitats like coral reefs or seagrass beds.
Activity - Simulated Dredging (30 minutes):
- Setup: Provide students with a bin filled with sand, water, and a mix of items such as small shells, artificial debris (e.g., beads, plastic), and organic matter (e.g., leaves).
- Task: Students use small scoops to “dredge” the bin and sort through their findings.
- Analysis: Students record observations about the type and quantity of materials collected.
Discussion & Reflection (15 minutes):
- Students discuss how dredging might affect marine organisms, sediment layers, and water quality based on their findings.
- Explore real-world examples of dredging’s impact (e.g., displacement of marine life, destruction of habitats).
- Brainstorm ways to reduce environmental harm during dredging operations (e.g., seasonal restrictions, environmentally friendly techniques).
