The hydraulic method removes sediment as a water/solids mixture (slurry). While this does remove a significant amount of water during the process, we operate at full pool (full capacity) in most situations. We continuously manage and, when necessary, filter and return the clarified water back to the water body to maintain stable levels and water quality.

The primary cost drivers for hydraulic dredging are the pumping distance, the sediment's composition (which affects pumping efficiency), and the chosen dewatering process (geotextile bags vs. open basins). While the initial setup for hydraulic is complex, the reduced need for trucking and disposal of large volumes of water often makes it more cost-effective for large, deep-water projects.

The dredged material, or "spoils," is a water-rich slurry. We pump this slurry into large geotextile bags at a remote dewatering site. The bags allow the water to seep out, leaving behind concentrated, dried sediment. This material can often be used on-site for topsoil or fill, or hauled away once it meets all dryness requirements.

The dewatering site must be relatively flat, accessible by pipeline, and large enough to accommodate the geotextile bags or dewatering basin for the volume being removed. We prepare the site with a gravel base and perimeter berms to manage filtered water runoff and ensure that only clean, clarified water is allowed to return to the natural environment.

While the client is ultimately responsible for securing major regulatory permits (like the Army Corps of Engineers Section 404 or state-level environmental permits), our consulting team provides extensive support. We offer all necessary bathymetric data, dewatering plans, and compliance documentation needed to streamline and expedite the application process.