Way Back When, January 18, 1995: VMI-made dredge will clean harbor for America's Cup

    

VMI-made dredge will clean harbor for America's Cup

KAREN GEYER / Staff Writer

Equipment made in Cushing will be helping to prepare a marina in San Diego, Ca. for this year's America’s Cup Races.  A dredge made by VMI, Inc. was purchased by Driscoll Boatworks and will be used to clean the harbor where the international boat races will be held.

 The dredge purchased for the job was a used one, which sold for about $90,000.

 VMI, Inc. Owner and CEO Gene Maitlen says, "I don't know if it's the secret of my success or not, but I love solving problems. I've had a lot of fun." Maitlen runs his company with his two sons, Randy and Tony. They manufacture dredges used to clean up the environment when there is an oil or chemical spill, or in circumstances where there are ponds, sludge pits, or tanks that need to be cleaned.

 The dredges vary in size and the challenges Maitlen enjoys most is solving specialized technical difficulties for other companies.

 "Before Orange County in California ran into financial difficulty, they were short of water. There were huge basins where river water was stored to percolate and replenish the water table.  After a while sediments would build up and they needed something to clean the bottom of the basins to facilitate the percolation process.  Thy contact4d us and we custom-built a dredge that was turtle-shaped and would go underwater to clean the bottom of the basin.  Likewise,  for other companies, we’ve customized dredges with hydraulic cutterheads to accommodate the slant of a holding tank or pond.  We have over 30 different patents for things we’ve engineered in our 23 years of business,” Maitlen said.

 Cushing Daily Citizen photo by Karen Geyer

VMI, Inc. employees Tim Thee and Steve Loveland work on a dredge similar to the one shopped to San Diego, CA.  VMI owner Gen Maitlen says the dredge will be used to clean the harbor around a marina where the America’s Cup boat races will be held.

"The dredges have floating discharge hoses which can load the sludge into trucks which take it to landfills.  Sometimes solids and liquids are separated and disposed of differently.  One of our customers is situated near the sea and has tracks going from their building right down into the ocean.  Sand fills up between the tracks and they needed something that would clean it out," Maitlen said.

 He continued, "we've made specialized hand-held dredges for divers to use to clean the tracks."

 Today Maitlen is working on a model that can be used by remote control, so an employee won't be exposed to chemicals.  When a customer, or potential customer, comes to Maitlen with a unique problem, the first thing he does is research.  “We won’t infringe on anyone’s patent.  One of the things we find in this business is that larger companies can make changes, but it will take two or three years to implement those changes.

 "We evaluate what needs to be done and if it is good, we can make it happen in 30 days," Maitlen said.

 Maitlen has a family farm where he and wife, Peggy, raise Beefmaster cattle. His grandparents bought the farm from Indians in 1903. His parents had a total of six children, who sold their part of the land to Gene. Now, his kids just bought the last parcel to make the farm encompass a full section. He said, "all my grandchildren are on that farm, making it five generations that have lived there."

 Maitlen's children are Linda, (former owner of Linda M's Restaurant), Randy and Tony, who work with VMI, and Beckye Parker, who, with her husband, John, has Norfolk Produce.

Guy Says . . . You can’t float steel without welders

 Guy Says . . .

You can’t float steel without welders.

RESPECT THE SPARK. 🔥⚡️

April is National Welding Month—

so raise your hood to the ones who hold it all together.

Tag a welder who keeps your world from falling apart.

#ThisIsHowYouDredge #RespectTheSpark #WeldingMonth #VMIDredges #GuytheDredgeGuy

 https://youtube.com/shorts/rfYeP1hN5kY?feature=share

 The Science of Sediment Removal: 

What Happens Underwater?

Sediment removal plays a crucial role in maintaining waterways, restoring ecosystems, and supporting industries that rely on clean and navigable water. But what actually happens beneath the surface when a dredge goes to work?

Dredging isn’t just about scooping up mud and sand—it’s a carefully engineered process based on fluid dynamics, sediment behavior, and environmental impact considerations. In this article, we’ll dive into the science of sediment removal, exploring how dredging works, the forces at play, and why it’s essential for waterway management.

What is Sediment, and Why Does It Need to Be Removed?

Sediment is the natural material—sand, silt, clay, and organic debris—that accumulates at the bottom of lakes, rivers, harbors, and industrial basins. While sedimentation is a natural process, excessive buildup can create major problems:

Navigation Hazards: Harbors, shipping channels, and rivers can become too shallow for vessels.

Water Quality Issues: Suspended sediments can block sunlight, harming aquatic ecosystems.

Flooding Risks: Blocked drainage channels and reservoirs increase the likelihood of flooding.

Contamination Concerns: Industrial and urban runoff can introduce heavy metals, chemicals, and nutrients that degrade water quality.

To address these challenges, dredging removes unwanted sediment, restoring depth, improving water flow, and ensuring safe and sustainable waterway use.

The Science Behind Dredging: How It Works

Dredging involves the displacement and transportation of submerged sediments using specialized equipment like horizontal dredges, cutter suction dredges, and amphibious excavators. The process relies on key scientific principles:

1. Sediment Disruption & Loosening

Before sediment can be removed, it must first be loosened from the waterbed. Depending on the type of dredge used, this can happen in several ways:

Mechanical Agitation: Cutter suction dredges use rotating cutterheads to break up compacted material.

Auger Action: Horizontal dredges employ an auger head to stir up sediment in a controlled manner.

Hydraulic Erosion: Some dredges use water jets to fluidize sediment before pumping it away.

Science at Play:

Shear force is applied to break sediment cohesion (how tightly particles stick together).

Grain size affects how easily material can be disturbed—clay is more cohesive than sand and requires more force.

2. Sediment Suspension & Transport

Once loosened, the sediment enters a suspension phase where water and fine particles mix, making it easier to transport.

Dredging pumps create a negative pressure gradient, sucking up sediment-rich water and transporting it through pipelines or discharge systems. The efficiency of this transport depends on:

Density of the slurry (sediment-to-water ratio)

Pump velocity and suction power

Particle size and weight (heavier grains settle faster, while fine silt remains suspended longer)

Science at Play:

Stokes’ Law explains how different sediment particles settle in water, larger, denser particles sink first, while fine particles stay suspended.

Hydrodynamics influence how sediment moves through a pipeline or water column.

3. Deposition & Disposal of Sediment

After sediment is removed from the water, it must be properly managed. Depending on the project, the dredged material is:

Disposed of in deepwater sites (for uncontaminated sediment in offshore areas).

Used for land reclamation (to create islands, expand shorelines, or restore beaches).

De-watered and repurposed (for construction, agriculture, or habitat restoration).

Processed to remove contaminants (when dealing with polluted sediment).

Science at Play:

Sediment dewatering uses gravity, geotextile bags, or filter presses to separate solids from water.

Nutrient cycling affects whether dredged material can be safely used for environmental projects.

The Role of Dredging in Environmental Management

While dredging is necessary for infrastructure and industry, it must be conducted responsibly to minimize environmental impact. Science plays a major role in ensuring sustainable sediment removal.

1. Turbidity Control

Turbidity (water cloudiness caused by disturbed sediments) is carefully monitored during dredging. 

Excessive turbidity can:

Reduce oxygen levels, harming aquatic life.

Block sunlight, disrupting underwater ecosystems.

Solutions:

Silt curtains are used to contain suspended particles.

Low-turbidity dredging methods (such as horizontal dredges) minimize disruption.

2. Habitat Protection & Sediment Relocation

Certain dredging projects relocate sediment to create beneficial habitats, including:

Wetland restoration projects.

Coral reef rehabilitation (using dredged sand to rebuild damaged reefs).

Oyster bed replenishment (placing shell-rich sediment in coastal zones).

3. Water Quality Improvement

Dredging can remove pollutants and restore water quality in contaminated sites, including:

Heavy metal removal from industrial waterways.

Algae bloom control by reducing nutrient-rich sediment.

Oil spill cleanup in coastal and riverine environments.

Choosing the Right Dredge for the Job

The effectiveness of sediment removal depends on selecting the right equipment.

Tip: If your project requires minimal disruption, a horizontal dredge is ideal. If you need high-production sediment removal, a cutter suction dredge is the better option.

The Science Behind Smarter Dredging

Sediment removal is far more than just scooping mud—it’s a precise, science-backed process that ensures safe navigation, healthy ecosystems, and sustainable waterway management. By understanding fluid dynamics, sediment behavior, and dredging technologies, operators can make informed decisions that benefit both their projects and the environment.

At VMI Dredges, we specialize in high-efficiency dredging equipment that balances power with environmental responsibility. Whether you need sediment removal for industrial, municipal, or environmental applications, our team can help you choose the best dredge for the job.

Have a project that requires expert dredging solutions? Contact us today!

Pat Sumpter, Sales Manager, 918-225-7000, Ext. 12

www.vmidredges.com • sales@vmi-dredges.com

Call Now       Email Us

Did You Know? Dredge with Purpose. Perform with Power.

 https://youtube.com/shorts/S2E4BN0AaWY?feature=share

🌍 Dredge with Purpose. Perform with Power.

Sediment doesn’t stand a chance when VMI Dredges is on the water.

Our horizontal and cutter suction dredges help keep ecosystems alive by restoring water flow, reducing buildup, and supporting critical habitats. From wetlands to reservoirs, every project is an opportunity to do it right.

💬 How are YOU factoring in environmental impact on your job sites? Drop a comment below.

#thisishowyoudredge #vmidredges #environmentalremediation #dredgingforchange #sustainablesolutions #habitatrestoration #watertreatment #miningsolutions

This classic VMI horizontal mini-dredge was breaking barriers and setting the standard back when shoulder pads were in and cassette tapes ruled the airwaves.

    #ThrowbackThursday

Before touchscreens. Before GPS.

Just grit, gears, and game-changing innovation.

📸 This classic VMI horizontal mini-dredge was breaking barriers and setting the standard back when shoulder pads were in and cassette tapes ruled the airwaves. We’ve come a long way, but the heart of VMI is still the same: Built to perform. Engineered to last. 💪

Tag someone who remembers running equipment like this 

👇

#ThisIsHowYouDredge #VMIDredges #TBT #BuiltToLast #DredgeLife #DredgingHistory #MadeInTheUSA

Guy Says . . . Think dredging is just waterway maintenance?

  

Guy Says . . .

Think dredging is just waterway maintenance?

Try telling that to the industries that rely on it to survive.

Dredging fuels everything—

Ag. Energy. Infrastructure. Trade. Recreation.

#VMIDredges #GuyTheDredgeGuy #GuySays #ThisIsHowYouDredge #DredgingEquipment #DredgeManufacturer

 https://youtube.com/shorts/4sQx6Flv4Tg?feature=share

Did You Know? VMI Dredges’ Swamp Hoe Amphibious Excavators are built for conditions that challenge conventional dredging equipment.

   

 https://youtube.com/shorts/U-6fEB3wm5U?feature=share

🎥 Did You Know?

VMI Dredges’ Swamp Hoe Amphibious Excavators are built for conditions that challenge conventional dredging equipment.🐊🌾💪

Soft soil? Swamp muck? Marshy madness?

Yeah—they were made for that.

What’s your most memorable "tough terrain" project?

We want to hear your wildest dredging stories 👇

#ThisIsHowYouDredge #VMIDredges #SwampHoe #AmphibiousExcavator #ToughTerrain #MarshMasters

Pat Sumpter, Sales Manager, 918-225-7000, Ext. 12

www.vmidredges.com • sales@vmi-dredges.com

Call Now       Email Us

 Horizontal vs. Cutter Suction Dredges: Which One is Right for Your Project?

Dredging is a vital process for maintaining waterways, restoring environments, and supporting industries ranging from mining to municipal water treatment. But when it comes to selecting the right dredging equipment, the choice between a horizontal dredge and a cutter suction dredge (CSD) can make all the difference.

Both types of dredges offer unique advantages depending on the project’s needs, the type of sediment being removed, and the working conditions. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between horizontal dredges and cutter suction dredges, helping you determine which is best for your operation.

What is a Horizontal Dredge?

A horizontal dredge is a type of dredging equipment that utilizes an auger head to break up and pump sediment. These dredges are typically mounted on a floating platform and use a hydraulic system to control the auger and pump.

Key Features of Horizontal Dredges:

Auger Head Technology: Uses a rotating auger to agitate and remove sediment.

Precision & Low Turbidity: Designed for targeted sediment removal with minimal water disturbance.

Self-Contained & Easy to Operate: Can often be operated by a single person.

Shallow Water Capability: Ideal for small lakes, ponds, wastewater lagoons, and industrial settling basins.

Best Applications for Horizontal Dredges:

Municipal & Industrial Water Treatment: Used for dredging sludge in wastewater treatment plants.

Lakes & Ponds: Perfect for environmental restoration projects requiring precision.

Marinas & Canals: Effective for maintaining navigable depths in confined areas.

Ash Ponds & Mining Sediment Removal: Great for controlled excavation and fine material recovery.

Advantages of Horizontal Dredges:

Minimal Environmental Disruption: Reduces turbidity and prevents excessive sediment resuspension.

Compact & Maneuverable: Can operate in confined areas where larger dredges cannot.

Lower Operating Costs: Requires less fuel and fewer operators compared to larger dredging systems.

Ideal for Soft Sediment: Works well with materials like silt, sludge, and fine sediment.

What is a Cutter Suction Dredge (CSD)?

A cutter suction dredge (CSD) is a more powerful dredging system that uses a rotating cutter head to break up hard-packed materials before pumping them through a pipeline. These dredges are commonly used for large-scale excavation and channel maintenance.

Key Features of Cutter Suction Dredges:

Cutter Head Technology: Uses a rotating cutter to break up compacted or consolidated sediments.

High Production Capacity: Capable of moving large volumes of material quickly.

Versatile Applications: Can be used for sand, clay, gravel, and harder materials.

Pipeline Discharge System: Pumps dredged material to a designated disposal or processing site.

Best Applications for Cutter Suction Dredges:

River & Harbor Maintenance: Keeps navigation channels clear and functional.

Port & Coastal Dredging: Used for deepening and expanding harbors and waterways.

Land Reclamation & Beach Nourishment: Moves large amounts of sediment for construction projects.

Mining & Aggregates: Excavates sand, gravel, and other valuable materials.

Advantages of Cutter Suction Dredges:

Handles Tougher Sediments: Effective for harder materials, including clay and compacted sands.

Higher Production Rates: Moves more material per hour than horizontal dredges.

Longer Discharge Distance: Can transport dredged material further via pipeline.

Essential for Navigation Projects: Keeps critical waterways open for commercial and recreational use.

Making the Right Choice
Choose a Horizontal Dredge If…

Your project requires precision sediment removal (wastewater, ponds, canals).

You need minimal environmental disruption (low turbidity).

Your dredging site is shallow or confined (lagoons, industrial basins).

You’re working with soft, fine sediment (silt, sludge).

Choose a Cutter Suction Dredge If…

You need to move large amounts of material quickly (harbors, rivers, mining).

Your project involves hard-packed or compacted sediment (clay, gravel).

You require deepwater dredging capabilities (ports, coastal restoration).

Your dredged material needs to be transported long distances (pipeline discharge).

Get the Right Dredge for the Job

Both horizontal dredges and cutter suction dredges are powerful tools—but selecting the right one is essential for efficiency, cost savings, and project success

At VMI Dredges, we manufacture high-performance horizontal and cutter suction dredges designed for a wide range of applications. Our team of dredging experts can help you find the perfect equipment for your project needs.

Ready to find the right dredge? Contact us today!

Pat Sumpter, Sales Manager, 918-225-7000, Ext. 12

www.vmidredges.com • sales@vmi-dredges.com

Call Now       Email Us

🎉 Happy Birthday, Anastasia! 🎉

  🎉 Happy Birthday, Anastasia! 🎉

Behind every smooth operation at VMI Dredges is someone keeping things moving with precision, positivity, and a whole lot of hustle and that’s you.

Thank you for everything you do to support the team and keep us running strong. Wishing you a day filled with joy, laughs, and well-deserved celebration!

Drop a 🎂 in the comments to wish Anastasia a Happy Birthday!

#thisishowyoudredge #vmidredges #HappyBirthday #TeamVMI

#ThrowbackThursday A black-and-white glimpse into VMI’s dredging legacy.

 #ThrowbackThursday 

A black-and-white glimpse into VMI’s dredging legacy. This classic cutter suction dredge was built for performance, standing tall in an era where hard work and precision ruled the water. While technology has advanced, the mission remains the same, move more material, build reliable machines, and get the job done.

Who remembers operating one of these? Drop a 🏗️ if you’ve been in the dredging game long enough to appreciate this throwback! ⬇️

#DredgingHistory #BuiltToDredge #VMIDredges #ThisIsHowYouDredge #DredgeManufacturer

Guy Says . . . You haven’t truly lived until you’ve fired up a dredge, cleared a clogged channel, and pulled up a 100-year-old hubcap, three tires, and a catfish the size of a toddler

 Guy Says . . .

You haven’t truly lived until you’ve fired up a dredge, cleared a clogged channel, and pulled up a 100-year-old hubcap, three tires, and a catfish the size of a toddler.

This isn’t a hobby—it’s a lifestyle.

#ThisIsHowYouDredge

Tag your crew who know the feeling.

#VMIDredges #ThisIsHowYouDredge #DredgeLife #dredging

 https://youtube.com/shorts/sDUcM-erJXU?feature=share

Behind the Scenes: How We Build the Toughest Dredges on the Market

  

  Behind the Scenes: How We Build 

the Toughest Dredges on the Market

At VMI Dredges, we don’t just build dredging equipment, we build solutions that stand up to the toughest environments and the most demanding projects. From concept to completion, every dredge that leaves our facility is designed to deliver performance, reliability, and longevity.

But what does it take to manufacture one of the most rugged, high-performing dredges in the industry? Today, we’re giving you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how we build the toughest dredges on the market.

Step 1: Understanding Our Customers' Needs

Before we ever cut steel or assemble components, we start with the most critical part of our process—listening to our customers.

Industry Insight: Dredging needs vary widely, from environmental restoration to mining operations. We work closely with contractors, municipalities, and industrial clients to understand their challenges.

Custom Solutions: Whether it's a horizontal dredge for a confined waterway or a cutter suction dredge for large-scale excavation, we tailor our designs to meet project-specific demands.

Innovation-Driven Design: Our engineering team stays ahead of industry trends, developing dredges that improve efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and operate in environmentally sensitive areas.

Step 2: Engineering & Design Excellence

Once we have a clear understanding of our customers' needs, our engineers get to work designing a dredge that can handle the job.

Precision Modeling: Every VMI dredge begins as a 3D model, allowing us to fine-tune every component before production begins.

Structural Reinforcement: Our dredges are built to endure high sediment loads, harsh conditions, and long operating hours—so we reinforce key areas to maximize durability.

Environmental Considerations: As regulations evolve, we ensure our designs meet or exceed environmental standards, incorporating low-emission engines and efficient dredging technologies.

Step 3: Fabrication & Manufacturing

This is where the real heavy lifting begins. Our manufacturing team takes the design from blueprint to reality, using high-quality materials and skilled craftsmanship.

Cutting & Welding:  We use precision laser-cutting equipment to ensure every piece of steel fits perfectly.

Our certified welders follow strict quality control measures to create strong, leak-proof seams.

Assembly & Component Integration:  The dredge hulls, cutter heads, pumps, and hydraulic systems are assembled with precision.

We install heavy-duty wear-resistant materials to extend the lifespan of critical components.

Hydraulics & Power Systems:  We equip our dredges with powerful diesel engines and hydraulic systems to handle extreme working conditions.

Hydraulic hoses and pumps are pressure-tested to withstand demanding operations.

Step 4: Rigorous Testing & Quality Control

At VMI, we don’t believe in "good enough"—every dredge undergoes extensive testing before it leaves our facility.

Pump Performance Tests: Ensuring our dredges achieve the required suction and discharge rates.

Structural Integrity Inspections: Checking for any potential weak points in the build.

Hydraulic System Checks: Verifying smooth and reliable operation under simulated working conditions.

Electrical & Control System Tests: Making sure the dredge’s automated functions and safety systems are operational.

If a dredge doesn’t pass our high standards, we don’t ship it out until it’s perfected.

Step 5: Final Touches & Customization

Once a dredge passes quality control, we fine-tune it for its specific job site.

Protective Coating & Paint: Our dredges are coated with industrial-grade marine paint to prevent corrosion and extend their lifespan.

Shipping & Deployment: Whether it’s being sent to a local job site or shipped internationally, we ensure safe transportation to its final destination.

Step 6: Training & Ongoing Support

Building the toughest dredge isn’t just about the equipment, it’s also about empowering the operators who use it.

On-Site Training: We offer hands-on training for our customers to ensure they get the most out of their dredge.

After-Sales Support: Our service team is available to assist with troubleshooting, maintenance, and replacement parts.

Customer-First Approach: We believe in long-term partnerships, providing expert guidance whenever our customers need it.

Why VMI Dredges Are the Toughest in the Industry

Built for Harsh Environments: Our dredges are designed to withstand extreme conditions, from abrasive sediments to challenging weather.

Engineered for Maximum Efficiency: Advanced pump designs, fuel-efficient engines, and precision hydraulics make our dredges highly effective.

Rugged, Long-Lasting Construction: High-quality materials and expert craftsmanship ensure that a VMI dredge lasts for years.

Continual Innovation: We are always improving, ensuring that our customers get the most advanced dredging equipment available.

Ready to Experience VMI Quality?

Whether you’re looking for a powerful cutter suction dredge, a reliable horizontal dredge, or an amphibious excavator for tough terrains, VMI Dredges has the equipment to get the job done.

Need expert advice? Our team is ready to help you choose the right dredge for your project.

Looking for durable, high-performance equipment? Trust the company that has been building the toughest dredges for over 50 years.

Pat Sumpter, Sales Manager, 918-225-7000, Ext. 12

www.vmidredges.com • sales@vmi-dredges.com

Call Now       Email Us

Did You Know? Proper dredging prevents costly repairs by keeping waterways clear and functional.

 

https://youtube.com/shorts/CFZKG13zDOg?feature=share

Did You Know?

Proper dredging prevents costly repairs by keeping waterways clear and functional. 💸🌊

VMI Dredges makes it easy to stay proactive with equipment that’s built to last and ready to work. ⚙️

What’s your best tip for preventing dredging delays?

Drop it in the comments 👇

#ThisIsHowYouDredge #VMIDredges #DredgeRentals #DidYouKnow #WaterwayMaintenance #DredgeSales

Pat Sumpter, Sales Manager, 918-225-7000, Ext. 12

www.vmidredges.com • sales@vmi-dredges.com

Call Now       Email Us

#ThrowbackThursday The VMI Horizontal Mini Dredge small but tough as nails.

    #ThrowbackThursday

The VMI Horizontal Mini Dredge small but tough as nails. Designed to take on shallow waters, tight spaces, and the toughest sediment, it didn’t just dredge, it dominated.

Who remembers running one of these legends? Let’s hear those stories! ⬇️

#VMIDredges #DredgingEquipment #BuiltToDredge #ThisIsHowYouDredge #DredgeManufacturing

Guy Says . . . “Dredging isn’t just about moving materials. It’s about rebuilding environments, restoring ecosystems, and reshaping what’s possible.”

 Guy Says . . .

“Dredging isn’t just about moving materials. It’s about rebuilding environments, restoring ecosystems, and reshaping what’s possible.”

Whether you’re managing a project, a municipality, or an entire operation, impact starts with the right equipment.

Let’s move more than material. Let’s move progress.

#ThisIsHowYouDredge

#VMIDredges #DredgingEquipment #DredgingSolutions #GuySays #GuytheDredgeGuy

 https://youtube.com/shorts/klpyLm5nDP8?feature=share

 Inside VMI Dredges: A Look at Our Team & Company Culture

At VMI Dredges, we know that a strong company isn’t just built on great products—it’s built on great people. Behind every dredge we manufacture, every customer we support, and every innovation we bring to the industry, there’s a dedicated team working together to make it happen.

Today, we’re giving you an inside look at what makes VMI Dredges more than just a company. From our passionate employees to our core values, we take pride in fostering a culture of teamwork, excellence, and innovation.

Our Legacy: Over 50 Years of Dredging Excellence

VMI Dredges has been a trusted name in the dredging industry for over five decades. Founded in 1972, we’ve grown from a small operation into an industry leader, providing cutting-edge dredging solutions worldwide. But while our equipment has evolved, our mission has stayed the same:

To design and build the highest-quality dredges that help our customers tackle real-world challenges.

Our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer success is driven by the hardworking people behind our brand.

The People Behind the Dredges

A Team of Experts & Problem Solvers

At VMI, we don’t just build dredges, we solve problems. Every day, our engineers, welders, technicians, and sales experts work together to design, manufacture, and support some of the most reliable dredging equipment in the world.

Engineering & Manufacturing Team

Our engineers and fabricators take pride in building dredges that stand the test of time. From precision welding to rigorous quality control, every piece of equipment that leaves our facility is built with attention to detail.

Sales & Customer Support Team

Our sales team doesn’t just sell dredges, they help customers find the right solutions for their projects. We work closely with contractors, municipalities, and industrial operations to ensure they get the right dredging equipment for their needs.

Service & Parts Team

Dredging never stops, and neither do we. Our service team provides technical support, troubleshooting, and replacement parts to keep our customers’ operations running smoothly.

Our Core Values: What Drives Us

At VMI Dredges, our culture is shaped by a set of values that define who we are and how we work.

1. Customer Commitment

We believe in building long-term relationships with our customers. Whether it’s a first-time buyer or a long-time client, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional service and support.

2. Quality & Reliability

Our dredges are built to perform in tough conditions. We never cut corners, and every dredge that leaves our facility is built to last.

3. Innovation & Continuous Improvement

Dredging technology is constantly evolving, and so are we. Our team is always working on new designs, features, and improvements to help customers get more out of their equipment.

4. Teamwork & Collaboration

We succeed together. Whether it’s engineering, sales, or service, every department at VMI works as a team to achieve our goals.

5. Safety First

Dredging is a tough industry, and safety is always our top priority. From the way we build our dredges to the way we train our customers, we emphasize safe and efficient operations.

Company Culture: More Than Just a Workplace

At VMI Dredges, we believe that a great company culture is about more than just the work—it’s about the people and the environment we create together.

A Family Atmosphere: Many of our employees have been with us for decades, and we treat each other like family.

Employee Growth & Development: We invest in training, mentorship, and opportunities for professional growth.

Celebrating Success: From company cookouts to employee recognition events, we take time to celebrate our achievements.

Community Engagement: We’re proud to be part of the Cushing, Oklahoma community and support local initiatives.

Why We Love What We Do

Dredging isn’t just a job—it’s a passion. At VMI, we love seeing the impact our work has on industries, communities, and the environment. Whether it’s restoring waterways, supporting flood prevention, or helping businesses operate more efficiently, we take pride in knowing that our equipment makes a difference.

"We’re not just building dredges—we’re building solutions that help people solve real-world challenges. That’s what keeps us motivated every day." — Pat Sumpter, VMI Dredges Sales Manager

Looking Ahead: The Future of VMI Dredges

As we continue to grow and innovate, we remain committed to our core values and our customers. The dredging industry is evolving, and we’re excited to lead the way with new technologies, enhanced equipment, and a team that’s ready for the future.

If you’re looking for a dredging partner who values quality, reliability, and customer success, VMI Dredges is here for you.

Want to learn more about our team or explore career opportunities? Visit https://vmidredges.com/careers.html  or call us at 918-225-7000.

VMI’s dredging equipment is trusted across the globe from industrial sites to environmental projects and municipal systems.

https://youtube.com/shorts/0gD6d6SSq4U?feature=share

VMI’s dredging equipment is trusted across the globe from industrial sites to environmental projects and municipal systems.

💡 We want to hear from you:

What industries have you worked in where dredging was essential?

Drop your experience in the comments and let’s highlight the impact dredging has across the world.

#ThisIsHowYouDredge #VMIDredges #DredgingMatters #DredgingEquipment

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#ThrowbackThursday Small but unstoppable, the VMI Mini Dredge was built to handle tough jobs with precision and power.

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Small but unstoppable, the VMI Mini Dredge was built to handle tough jobs with precision and power. This compact workhorse proved that size doesn’t limit performance. From ponds to tight spaces, it got the job done time and time again.

Who’s operated one of these classics? Let’s hear your Mini Dredge stories! ⬇️

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Way Back When Article, International Dredging Review, 2012, VMI MD-615 Dredging Soft Lime In Ohio

 

 VMI MD-615 DREDGING SOFT LIME IN OHIO

International Dredging Review, 2012

Many water plants across the country are facing the problem of lime build-up from the water treatment process, with and no cost-effective way to dispose of the byproducts.

An Ohio water treatment plant came up with a creative solution to this problem that involved finding an agricultural partner to re-use the lime as a soil additive.

After researching possible partners, the plant tamed up with a local farmers' co-op and together they implemented a plan to dredge lime from the water treatment plant's quarry and sell it to area farmers at market price.

The co-op invested about $1 million in infrastructure next to the quarry, consisting of a VMI MD-615 dredge, tanks, pumps, testing equipment and a scale.  The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency approved the plan, and the co-op began serving local farmers in 2011.

The project will remove approximately 10,000 wet tons of "soft" lime from the quarry per year which the co-op then applies to farmers' fields.

Soft lime is a superior product to the dry lime that normally used to balance the pH of their fields after harvest.  The smaller particle size, or "fineness," of soft lime mixes into the soil more effectively than dry lime, and can be applied more evenly.  Because soft lime is liquid, the wind doesn't blow it away.

Environmentally, farmland application is better and more cost effective because the byproduct is not dumped into a landfill.