Removing Sediment to Restore Water Depth
Today, massive algal blooms, animal fatalities from toxic byproducts of algae, and the spread of invasive plants and animals are sharing the front-page news with national economic interests. For those of us living on a waterbody, it’s clear that our personal economic interests are rewarded via higher property values if the nearby water is both navigable and healthy. As a waterbody ages and becomes “silted-in,” organic nutrients fuel invasive plant and algae growth, and property owners suffer the consequences of bright green water, fish kills, and dangerous swimming conditions.
Virtually all explanations of dredging include the physical scooping up of underwater sand and clay sediments to enhance a merchant ship’s access to a port or waterway. If these waterways become inaccessible, the economic consequences are far-reaching. There are several proactive management strategies that help slow a waterbody’s aging process such as aeration, nutrient remediation, and buffer management. Though these practices help keep your lake or pond healthy, there will still come a time where your waterbody will reach the end of its lifespan.
Luckily, there are two sediment removal options that can improve your waterbody for years to come: hydro-raking and dredging. Here's the breakdown:
Mechanical Raking or "Hydro-Raking"
Mechanical raking or hydro-raking is an environmentally friendly tool used to remove soft, organic muck and debris from the bottom of lakes and ponds. This floating barge can also be used to naturally and selectively remove nuisance aquatic plants. The hydro-rake works in water as shallow as 1 foot and can restore depths ranging from 18 inches to 10 feet. This management solution is ideal for waterbodies that haven’t reached the end of their lifespan.
Dredging
When a waterbody can no longer be saved through proactive management methods, the next best solution is dredging. This management method is used to increase depth and remove nutrient-heavy sediments. Fortunately, there are multiple dredging options available that can accommodate various properties, environmental restrictions, budgets and waterbody types. Hydraulic dredging and mechanical dredging are two excellent management services used to restore lakes and ponds back to their functioning state. Though this solution is costly, the investment will be well worth it and can give years back to your waterbody for you to enjoy.
Selecting a management method for your waterbody might not be so cut and dried. We encourage you to explore the advantages of hydro-raking and dredging and speak with your lake or pond management professional to determine the right solution for your unique waterbody.
Click on the button below to speak with the experts at SOLitude Lake Management about helping you remove sediment and restore your waterbody.
