Rotterdam, the Netherlands, 25 September 2025 – Van Oord and Fraser River Pile and Dredge (FRPD) have established a long-term partnership under the name RiverFlow Dredging to carry out maintenance dredging of the Fraser River navigation channel in Canada. The new joint venture has signed an agreement with the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority to begin annual dredging works in 2026, securing safe marine access to Canada’s largest port.
The Fraser River is one of Canada’s most important transport arteries, carrying more than $100 billion in trade every year. Its South Arm deep-sea channel, along with terminal berths and approaches, requires constant upkeep to remain navigable for international shipping. Under the new contract, RiverFlow will dredge between 3.0 and 4.5 million cubic metres of sediment annually. This effort will ensure that bulk carriers, container ships, and project cargo vessels can continue to call at the Port of Vancouver without delays or safety risks.
August Runge, Director Dredging & Infra at Van Oord, highlighted the significance of the deal: “This partnership marks a significant step in strengthening Van Oord’s presence in Canada. Together with FRPD, we are combining over a century of dredging expertise to ensure safe and efficient access to one of Canada’s most vital waterways.”
Inclusive and environmentally conscious dredging
RiverFlow’s programme emphasizes both inclusivity and environmental responsibility. Indigenous groups, recreational users, and residents along the river are included in planning discussions. The dredging operations will follow strict protocols to minimize ecological impact. Equipment will run on biofuels to reduce carbon intensity, while protection zones and seasonal restrictions will safeguard marine mammals and sensitive habitats.
This focus reflects a wider industry trend in dredging and port infrastructure projects, where carbon reduction and stakeholder engagement are increasingly seen as prerequisites for long-term contracts.
Sean Baxter, Director of Marine Operations and Harbour Master at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, underlined the importance of maintaining navigation channels for Canadian trade: “Ensuring cargo moves safely and efficiently to and from Port of Vancouver terminals is essential for Canadian goods and commodities to reach international markets, and for Canada to access critical imports. With over $100 billion worth of international trade flowing through the Fraser River annually, maintenance dredging is integral to safe marine operations along this vital trade corridor.”
The port authority’s decision to formalize a long-term agreement with RiverFlow ensures continuity. FRPD has held a longstanding role in dredging the river, and its new partnership with Van Oord brings global expertise to the local context.
Combining global and local dredging expertise
Sarah Clark, President and Chief Executive Officer of FRPD, emphasized how the partnership builds on strengths from both sides: “Working in partnership with the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority and with Van Oord through RiverFlow, FRPD is thrilled to continue its role in ensuring the Fraser River is well-maintained to enable our supply chain and in support of all river users. Combining our local knowledge and dredging expertise with Van Oord’s international dredging expertise will ensure that the river is maintained to the high standard required for the efficient flow of cargo.”
The Fraser River South Arm channel serves as a gateway for commodities including grain, coal, lumber, and containerized goods. Its upkeep directly influences shipping schedules, port productivity, and Canada’s global trade performance. Annual dredging works are expected to maintain the depth required for modern deep-sea vessels, allowing them to transit safely to terminals such as DP World Fraser Surrey.
RiverFlow’s launch signals not only continuity for one of Canada’s busiest trade corridors but also an alignment with sustainability standards demanded by modern port operations. The project reinforces how dredging companies are adapting to environmental and social expectations while meeting the technical challenges of maintaining essential waterways.
