Can.Do. Lake Dredging

Why Lake Dredging Matters

Lakes naturally accumulate sediment over time, leading to shallow zones, algae blooms, poor circulation, and fish die-offs. Dredging restores original depth and water flow, improves oxygenation, and reduces nutrient overload, creating a healthier ecosystem for both wildlife and recreational use. It also enhances the aesthetic and property value of surrounding land.

Whether you’re managing a residential lake, a recreational reservoir, or a stormwater retention system, one thing is certain: sediment doesn’t stay put. Over time, silt, sludge, and organic buildup silently choke your waterbody, reducing capacity, degrading water quality, and creating costly maintenance issues downstream.

Every lake is different: depth, size, surrounding environment, and uses all factors into the dredging approach. That’s why we begin each project with thorough site assessments and custom dredging plans designed to protect aquatic life and minimize shoreline impact.

When Should a Lake be Dredged?

The frequency with which a lake should be dredged depends on several factors, including lake size, sediment input, surrounding land use, and whether the lake is natural or man-made.

• For smaller lakes and ponds, dredging is typically recommended every 15 to 20 years to maintain water quality and ecosystem health.
• Ponds with higher sediment inflow or runoff may require dredging more frequently, every 3 to 5 years.
• Man-made lakes often need dredging more often than natural lakes because sediment accumulates faster due to disrupted natural water flow.
• The actual need for dredging should be determined by monitoring for signs such as:
  • - Cloudy or murky water
  • - Foul odors
  • - Decreased depth or visible shrinkage
  • - Excessive plant or algae growth
  • - Loss of aquatic wildlife

A Trusted Partner in Lake Restoration

From initial surveys to permitting support and project completion, AUS delivers end-to-end service backed by specialized equipment and a dedicated team.

Our Dredging Methods: Hydraulic vs. Mechanical

• Hydraulic dredging is ideal for removing large volumes of fine sediment with minimal disturbance to the ecosystem. We use specialized pumps and floating pipeline systems to transfer sediment to geotextile bags or approved disposal sites.
• Mechanical dredging is preferred for lakes with larger debris, excessive vegetation, or when precise excavation is needed in confined areas.

We’re equipped to handle both, and we select the right method, or a hybrid approach, based on your lake’s specific conditions

Real Results, Real Reliability

AUS Dredge and Dive has certified divers and custom-engineered dredging systems. We are trusted nationwide for challenging lake and pond projects.

We are proud to provide lake dredging services to industrial, municipal, and residential clients in Texas and nationwide:

• Lakefront property owners looking to restore private ponds or lakes
• HOAs and lake associations seeking long-term lake management solutions
• Municipalities and park districts responsible for public waterways
• Marinas and harbors needing marina dredging or navigation channel clearing
• Industrial parks and facilities with stormwater retention ponds

We've helped restore and maintain waterbodies that others called “too far gone.” Whether it’s clearing five feet of muck or resolving a decades-old stormwater issue, we bring the gear, grit, and game plan to get it done.