A historic map of the original Oxbow lake. The lake/pond, had so much accumulated silt, the original boundaries were all but lost. Not only was the muck accumulation over 6 ft in some areas, a historical sidewalk and gardens surrounding the pond made for a a very complex restoration project. Several contractors turned down the project before Aquatic South was called to come up with a plan to successful complete this dredging project without damaging the surrounding areas.

A satellite picture helps show how the water and muck began to overtake the historical sidewalk and gardens due to the sediment displacing it’s original flow. We removed more than 700 cubic yards out of a confined area and sensitive site to bring this back to life!

Aquatic vegetation taking over the pond made it difficult to see the original shape and banks

Where’s the water?!

Just getting started and it was a very tight squeeze, but we needed the long reach to get it all!

…. long reach also came in handy when moving the muck to the load out area. Under those tarps are two sections of the historic sidewalk which we had to avoid with any of the machines!

The pond inlet starting to take shape and almost done. The difference was astounding, there really was a lake under there!

The inlet and first and second turns of the oxbow dredged and getting settled. Starting to look really good! Onto the second portion!

Before. This is the “other side” of the oxbow lake, or part 2. Water was just a trickle, maybe 6” deep in the deepest section

After. “Part 2” of the oxbow lake uncovered and restored to its original depth and shape!

And this is part of the sidewalk that was covered due to the lake being filled beyond capacity with muck and sediment.

We were thrilled to give this unique and historical walk a new life!