Restoring Aquatic Health, Preventing Flooding, and Staying Compliant
Meryman Environmental provides professional lake and pond dredging services to restore water body health, reduce flood risk, and meet Florida’s strict environmental regulations. With decades of experience and modern hydraulic dredging technology, Meryman helps communities, property managers, and municipalities protect their ecosystems and investments.
Why Dredging Matters
Over time, lakes and ponds fill with sediment, leaves, algae, and organic debris. This material settles on the bottom and forms a thick muck layer that reduces water depth and disrupts oxygen levels. As the muck builds up, the pond or lake becomes shallow, stagnant, and unsafe for aquatic life.
If left unaddressed, an unhealthy water body can lead to serious problems, including:
- Fish kills due to low oxygen
- Algae bloom and foul odors
- Costly flooding from reduced capacity
- Violations and fines for non-compliance
- Increased mosquito breeding
- Declining property value and loss of recreational use
Dredging restores space, circulation, and ecological balance, helping water bodies function the way they were originally designed.
The Dredging Process
Meryman uses a specialized technique called hydraulic dredging. A submersible cutter head loosens the sediment, which is then pumped through a pipeline as a slurry. This slurry is directed into large geotextile dewatering bags placed in a containment area nearby. The bags allow water to drain out slowly while trapping solids inside.
This efficient, low-impact process:
- Removes compacted muck without draining the pond
- Restores depth and oxygen balance
- Minimizes disruption to the ecosystem
- Reduces cost and cleanup time compared to excavation
Who Meryman Serves
Meryman Environmental works with a wide range of clients throughout Florida, including:
- Homeowners’ associations and residential communities
- Golf courses and resort properties
- Municipal governments and public parks
- Commercial and industrial facilities
- Agricultural and irrigation districts
- School campuses and nature preserves
Each project is custom-designed to meet the specific needs of the site, water body, and regulatory framework.
Restoring Aquatic Health
Healthy water bodies need both oxygen and space. When sediment accumulates, it reduces the depth and traps nutrients that feed algae. This starves the water of oxygen and creates a hostile environment for fish and beneficial bacteria.
By removing the source of nutrient overload, dredging:
- Improves oxygen circulation
- Reduces algae blooms
- Supports fish and aquatic vegetation
- Creates a healthier, self-sustaining ecosystem
Meryman enhances these results with additional services, including aeration systems, shoreline restoration, water quality testing, and habitat enhancement.
Preventing Flooding and Property Damage
Stormwater ponds are designed to manage runoff and prevent localized flooding. When sediment fills in these basins, they lose capacity and may overflow during heavy rains. This can damage infrastructure and increase liability for property owners or local governments.
Dredging restores stormwater function by increasing holding capacity and ensuring consistent flow, which reduces flood risks during seasonal storms or high rainfall events.
Staying Compliant with Florida Regulations
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and regional Water Management Districts require stormwater ponds and lakes to be properly maintained. When water bodies fall out of compliance, property owners may face fines, violations, and expensive repairs.
Meryman provides complete compliance support, including:
- Permitting assistance
- Inspection readiness
- Maintenance tracking and documentation
- Long-term planning to meet regulatory expectations
Compliance protects more than just water quality. It safeguards public health, property values, and community infrastructure.
Why Choose Meryman Environmental Inc.
Founded in 1974, Meryman Environmental is one of Florida’s most experienced lake and pond restoration firms. As a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Meryman combines environmental science, engineering, and regulatory expertise to deliver solutions that last.
Clients choose Meryman because they offer:
- Proven experience across Florida’s diverse landscapes
- Hydraulic dredging for minimal disruption and maximum results
- A full suite of lake and pond management services
- Customized strategies that restore balance and ensure compliance
Schedule a No-Obligation Property Inspection
Concerned about sediment buildup, algae, or compliance issues? Meryman Environmental offers no-obligation inspections to assess the condition of your lake or pond. Submit your contact information and one of our specialists will follow up to schedule a site visit and create a tailored dredging plan.