How much does is cost to operate a dredge?

Dredging is highly variable in cost.  Cost involved for dredging projects are typically as follows:

• Permitting – local, state, and federal are considered in most projects
• Planning – designing engineered plans usually for the dewatering area and disposal
• Mobilization – both of the equipment, the setup for dewatering, and disposal site
• Depth of Sediment – water and sediment depth determine much of the cost involved (i.e. shallow sediment depth takes much more time to dredge)
• Type of Sediment – texture of the sediment determines the type of dredge and dewatering process; debris can add to cost significantly
• Run-times – 24/7 or 5 days for 8 hours; weather is also a major factor depending on the project
• Export and Transport – the time for the dewatering (immediate vs. months) and distance to the disposal area
• Disposal –  the setup of the disposal area and final reclamation; or the tip-fee for a landfill
• Remediation – clean-up of the project site and installation of best management practices

Costs to operate the dredge include wear parts, labor, fuel, and maintenance.  Dredges are unique in that break-downs and maintenance usually have to occur on the water so adequate support personnel and equipment must be available.  All of these factors is why dredging cost range from a $3 to $300 per cubic yard.  Dredging is often limited by other factors such as dewatering or disposal, so costs can be affected by the entire process as well.