Lagoon Sludge Surveys

Epsom Environmental Services specialises is lagoon sludge surveys.

We understand the need for surveys to be accurate and consistent in order to model sludge accumulation and also costing for desludging projects.


  • Measurements are taken at 10m grid spacing across the entire lagoon. A greater number of survey points improves accuracy and is essential due to variations in sludge profile resulting from:
  • Accumulation of sludge at the inlet structure;
  • Rapid change in floor profile around the edges of the lagoon (caused from inconsistent batter gradients and or slumping of batter);
  • Wind induced wave action causing greater accumulation of sludge around the perimeter of the lagoon (‘salad bowl affect’ common on larger lagoons).
  • And most importantly, uneven sludge bed resulting from operation of aerators.
Untitled Untitled Untitled Untitled

For the collection of sludge samples we have developed a sample collector that takes multiple samples throughout the sludge profile. These samples are extracted, collected and combined to produce a composite sample for analysis.

The sample collector is lowered to the base of the lagoon and the handle turned 90 degrees which allows the sludge to flow into the inner tube and then closed before extraction. The sample collector encapsulates each sample therefore allowing it to be extracted without contamination or dilution.