Our client, a mixed-use development in Dallas, Texas consisting of retail and residential space, came to us with the goals of preserving the natural terrain and protecting its wildlife while staying within budget. The dilemma – the ponds, which were prominent throughout the space, were filling with sediment causing the otherwise clear water to become murky and algae-ridden. This increase in sediment was a result of disturbances caused by nearby construction project sites. Residents and visitors were registering complaints in increasing numbers with the property management company. It was an unanticipated problem and the dollars available to resolve the situation were limited.
After careful consideration we responded with a solution that met our client’s goals and not only preserved the natural habitat and landscaping, but also saved our customer more than 20% over their alternative proposed solutions.
By considering the environment, the purpose of the development, and the ongoing construction, in addition to the end result of the project, we utilized the expertise of our divers, instead of relying on bobcats and heavy construction machinery. Draining these ponds, which are recipients of water from a small river system, required a specialized approach tailored specifically for this situation. After deliberation and research, our pond cleaning and project management teams designed a customized vacuum nozzle that attached to the suction hose which pumped the sediment directly out of the body of water and then was able to be disposed of properly. By utilizing this method, the expense of the heavy machinery was avoided, and the divers were able to approach the area without disturbing the natural surroundings. Our commercial divers were in and out of the pond areas without compromising the landscaping or threatening the environment of the natural wildlife. The project was completed on time and within budget and to the client’s specifications.
We approach each commercial diving job as a unique project. There are different specifications, requirements, stakeholders and project goals. We partner with our clients to ensure that all aspects of the project are being met. Evaluating jobs from multiple angles confirms that the solution we propose is all encompassing and will be the most beneficial for their clients and the environment.
If you have a pond dredging or silt removal project that you need help with please contact us.
AUTHOR ANTHONY DI IULIOAnthony Di Iulio the founder, president and co-owner of American Underwater Services, Inc., started his business in 1999 with only three employees. Today this commercial diving company employs nearly 30 people and handles over 500 projects annually. Anthony moved to Fort Worth from Louisiana with his family in 1976. He worked summers during high school welding underwater for a marina on Benbrook Lake. Eventually he took scuba lessons after almost drowning on the job. Those lessons led him to training at a deep sea diving school in Houston, which included training on offshore oil rigs. Anthony spent several years in Louisiana working on offshore rigs and on inland jobs at power plants and dams before starting American Underwater Services, Inc.
