The Dustpan is very efficient in excavating sand material from the river bottom. Water jets at the end of the suction head agitate the sand into a slurry which is then pumped up into the dredge. The discharge is pipelined a short distance, typically around 800 feet, outside of the navigable channel. A Cutterhead Dredge has an active rotating auger surrounding the suction line. The material is pumped up to the dredge and discharged through a pipeline up to 3000 feet away.
Farther distances are possible with additional pipeline and booster pumps.
Dredging is coordinated with other Government Agencies so that our operations are conducted in an environmentally sensitive manner. In fact, we area always seeking ways to promote positive contributions to the environment such as island creation and beach nourishment. The steam powered Dredge Potter working on the Mississippi River. Picture of the Potter heading south of St. Louis on the Mississippi River. Pipeline in tow.