Why winter pays off for sediment removal
This winter, the mechanical dredging stormwater pond case study follows Pond 51 in Vaughan, Ontario—13.4 ha of mixed residential and commercial drainage that was 35 % full of sediment after 15 years. By draining the pond in December, contractors used two 3-tonne excavators to scoop out semi-frozen muck, thereby avoiding the need for polymer additives and shortening the drying time.
Inside the PDF you’ll find:
• Bathymetric data showing 468 m³ of accumulated sediment pre-clean-out.
• A 3-week schedule—from site prep to restoration—despite an early-December thaw that complicated access.
• Lessons on keeping the clay liner intact and using on-site freeze-dry areas.
Whether you manage a detention basin in Knoxville or Nashville, the winter mechanical dredging stormwater pond approach can trim budget and wildlife impacts when done right.
