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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I know if I need sediment removal or dredging?Algae blooms, excessive weeds, decreased water clarity, reduced depth are all indicators of excessive sediment build up. Simply the best way is to probe the bottom and feel what is there. Black muck, bubbles, excessive odor, unhealthy or dying fish are all indicators as well.
How far will you travel?PCI Sediment Removal and Dredging is a nationwide service.
What size ponds will you clean?We can do ponds as small as an acre and less as well as small lakes.
What if my pond has a liner?Special care must be taken utilizing different techniques and equipment, but all ponds can be cleaned.
What does it cost to remove sediment?There are many factors that affect the cost of these services. Once we are contacted and can gather some preliminary information we can provide you with some rough estimates. Once we determine the scope of the project and the details are worked out we can provide a contract for the project with fixed costs. Generally dredging is charged by the cubic yard measure in situ (as it sits in the water). We use a mapping program as well as a manual inspection to determine the volume.
What is your minimum charge?We typically are looking at $5,000 for dredging. Some smaller projects with divers can be less.
How much of the sediment do you remove?It is not practical, nor necessary in most cases to get 100% of the sediment removed. There will always be some material left around the edges and on the bottom. This will not affect the quality of the water or function of the pond. |
How far can you pump the sediment?We can pump the material 1,500 – 2,500 feet depending on the elevation we are pumping to as well as the material being pumped. We can easily pump further if needed using booster pumps.
What happens to the material that is dredged?In many cases it is pumped to its final location. If needed, we can help you make arrangements with local contractors to haul the material away. In some cases it can be sold for an amendment to topsoil or compost.
Is there financing available?Projects like these can be a burden on an annual budget. Dredging and sediment removal is something that may only have to occur on a 10-20 cycle. It helps to look at the costs broken down over that period of time. To help with the financial burden of projects like this we do offer financing and payment plans that can extend over 2-3 years. Be sure to ask us for details.
Will my fish be harmed?We have worked in very small trout ponds and watched as the fish swam around the dredge.
What happens to the water you pump out?In small ponds we will try to return it so we do not pump the pond dry. If needed, we run the water through a cleaner so we are not returning sediment to the water.
Do I need permits?This varies from state to state even town to town. There are many exceptions and situations. We recommend you check with your local agencies to find out more. Most have this information available on line.
Petersen Companies can provide you with referrals to companies that specialize in the management of your aquatic resources. Their services range from the management of algae and aquatic weeds, fisheries management and stocking, nutrient management, aeration and water quality and much more. |
