Abstract
<jats:p>The purpose of this Dredging Operations and Environmental Research (DOER) Pro-gram technical note (TN) is to present the improved laboratory methods for low-stress consolidation to support the beneficial use of dredged material (BUDM). Despite the growing practice of BUDM to support coastal environments, significant knowledge gaps persist in the behavior (e.g., consolidation and erodibility) of hydraulically placed cohesive sediments. The consolidation of deposited sediment dictates the resultant surface elevation, a key design component controlling the hydroperiod and shear strength of wetland ecosystems, which are key indicators of the long-term health and stability of the wetland. The existing US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) consolidation testing of ultrasoft materials utilizes settling columns that rely on highly time-consuming, experimental laboratory methods that are prone to human-induced errors. Therefore, an updated laboratory methodology that incorporates scientific advancements to manage consolidation and erodibility measurements is essential to providing practical testing with a higher degree of certainty for BUDM designers and ultimately helping to support USACE’s goal of reaching 70% BUDM.</jats:p>