Desilting or dredging of a lake or pond should be considered on both practical and ecological merits.

Generally sediments are a mixture of organic and inorganic material washed into the lake or pond from the catchment and can also be generated from within the body of water by an imbalance of available nutrients. Eutrophication, or enrichment of the water can be caused by run off from fertilised farmland or amenity land such as golf courses or by the over population by waterfowl or fish. These situations can invariably lead to algal blooms and subsequent further deposition of material on the bottom leading to loss of water quality and diversity together with a swallowing effect and ultimately loss of open water.

Dredging can recreate the valuable landscape feature of open water, whether part of a designed estate, park or garden or the neglected English village pond or farm pond. The removal of water polluting silts and invasive plants by a full or partial de-silt can also greatly benefit the ecology when sensitively and eruditely carried out.

PHB regularly undertake works of this kind for clients throughout Southern England such as Private Individuals, Estates, Parishes, Local Authorities, Local and National Conservation Organisations.

We operate a modern fleet of pumping, excavation and all wheel drive haulage plant operated by our own fully qualified and experienced staff. Specialist long reach excavators and low ground pressure dumpers can be employed to tackle access restrictions. An initial survey will determine the extent of the works and the type of machinery needed together with any constraints involved with the project. Careful planning and implementation of the works will ensure the minimum of disruption to the client, their business and the surrounding environment.