a primary reason for dredging is the creation, deepening, or widening of shipping lanes in or near harbors, especially those that service large ships. such work, however, is often subject to governmental regulation, one element of which concerns the effects dredge plumes might have on the surrounding environment. at least two groups have a stake in dredge plumes: governments and dredging companies. determining the effects of dredge plumes requires understanding their dynamics and interaction with the area's biodiversity.