Sludge surveys can revolutionize lagoon dredging projects by significantly reducing costs. A recent Hydrasurvey case study compared dredging estimates for a lagoon cell with and without sludge survey data. Without precise data, contractors priced the project with an average cost of $133,000, adding contingencies for unknowns. With detailed sludge distribution and volume information, bids dropped to an average of $34,000\u2014a 74% reduction. This $98,000 savings demonstrates how investing in sludge surveys eliminates uncertainties, optimizes project budgets, and delivers substantial financial benefits for lagoon owners.