Dredges

PSC 1955 covers dredges, which are specialized marine vessels and equipment designed for underwater excavation, sediment removal, and channel maintenance. These vessels are crucial for maintaining navigable waterways, harbors, and coastal infrastructure. Dredges utilize various technologies such as hydraulic systems, cutterheads, pumps, and advanced control mechanisms to effectively remove sediment and maintain marine transportation routes.

Recent federal contract awards in this category predominantly involve the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) procuring dredge-related equipment, components, and services. Contract values range from approximately $12,500 to $257 million, with most awards being firm-fixed-price purchase orders. Frequent contractors include Ellicott Dredge Technologies, Thoma-Sea Marine Constructors, and specialized marine equipment providers. Many awards are set aside for small businesses, including 8(a), woman-owned, and minority-owned firms. Performance locations are primarily along the West Coast, with a focus on maintaining and upgrading existing dredge vessels like the Essayons and McFarland.

The most significant federal contract opportunity is a Sources Sought Notice for a Large Class Hopper Dredge (LCHD-ESS) to replace the existing Essayons vessel. This procurement seeks a 300-400 foot ocean-going vessel with a 6,500 cubic yard hopper capacity, capable of dredging up to 85 feet deep. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is targeting contractors in NAICS code 336611 (ship building and repair), with an anticipated solicitation release in March 2026 and vessel delivery by the second quarter of fiscal year 2032. The procurement will use a best value tradeoff methodology and is considering stipends to encourage contractor participation.