Maintenance dredging is crucial for ports to function efficiently. With fewer new projects, companies must focus on this market to survive. Even new ports may need maintenance dredging due to siltation. It's often cheaper to deepen existing ports than build new ones, leading to increased dredging needs. Ports should improve their management of maintenance dredging, and dredging companies should find better methods. Key points include assessing navigation needs, determining waterway depth, disposal options for dredged material, dredging techniques, and deciding who should carry out the dredging work.