Harbour Environmental Group Ltd.

The process

Hydro evacuation (hydro-vac) utilizes pressurized water to soften ground, while vacuums extract the softened “slurry” into contained vessels that are transported offsite for disposal or treatment. This method of excavation has increased in use for subsurface construction. The accuracy reduces the risk of damaging existing underground utilities and causes less surface disturbance compared to traditional excavation methods. The hydro-vac slurry is comprised of approximately 60 per cent water and 40 per cent aggregate (soil, clay, sand, etc.). The physical nature of the slurry makes it difficult to handle and must be treated by a unique facility capable of separating the solid from the liquid. Otherwise, the slurry must be dumped at an authorized waste management facility (landfill).

Harbour Environmental Group has developed technology that remediates slurry by-products, through a three-stage mechanical process, into aggregate and water components that are used for consumer resale.

Additionally, Harbour Environmental Group’s Alberta Environment and Parks’ approval is the first of its kind in Alberta, whereby the hydro-vac slurry we receive is recycled, and not dumped in a landfill. 

To ensure public safety, we test all material at our facilities for contaminants. Additionally, we have a comprehensive screening process of the aggregate and water by-products from our treatment facilities.

Our commitment

Establishing partnerships that produce sustainable hydro-vac waste management solutions without limitations.

Our values

Safety – working everyday with a safety first mindset.

Sustainability – concern for the environment and commitment to sustainable action.

Innovation – doing things differently to make things better. 

Accountability – we speak, we act and we do without ever compromising our integrity.

Collaboration – our partners not just another line on a spreadsheet.