Marine Resources Commission; beneficial use of dredged material.

This legislation directs the Virginia Marine Resources Commission to prioritize the beneficial reuse of materials dredged from state waterways. Instead of treating sediment and sand as waste to be discarded, the policy encourages using these materials to restore vital coastal habitats, stabilize shorelines, and combat erosion. By establishing a clear framework for recycling dredged material, the bill aims to improve the long-term health of Virginia’s ecosystems and protect shoreline infrastructure from climate-driven impacts. For Arlington residents and the broader region, this shift represents a more sustainable approach to managing local waterways, potentially reducing the costs of erosion control projects while fostering more resilient aquatic environments. The move reflects a statewide effort to integrate ecological restoration into routine maintenance dredging operations.