Posted on February 23, 2026
NEW RICHMOND, WI USA – Ellicott Dredge Enterprises has unveiled the all-new Generation IV Versi-Dredge® dredge range for 2026. The new line is engineered to dredge sand and sediments from rivers, lakes, canals, and ports with the aggressive SolidsMaster® low turbidity cutterhead. In addition, all Generation IV models can utilize the patented WeedMaster® cutterhead for cutting and pumping aquatic vegetation – including hyacinths, cattails, reeds, milfoil, hydrilla, and sargassum – over distances exceeding 1km.
All of the Generation IV Versi-Dredge models including the 5012 LP Versi-Dredge, 5012 HP Versi-Dredge and 7012 HP Versi-Dredge are completely designed and have been produced and shipped from IMS’s modern dredge facility in New Richmond, WI. Recent deliveries include two (2) 7012 HP units to a frac sand mining operation, one 5012 HP unit and TLR trailer for a beach restoration project in the Caribbean, and one (1) unit to a contractor in the United States.
All new models come standard with the patented Starwheel Drive® self-propulsion system. The system functions as a high-RPM paddle wheel on the water’s surface or can be independently lowered via each heavy duty steel Star Arm to the maximum cutting depth, allowing the dredge to “walk” along the bottom in a low-RPM, high torque mode as a cleated traction drive system. Additionally, all Versi-Dredge models can be equipped with a four-point cable drive traverse drive system for operation in poly-plastic or cement-lined lagoons, with an available liner-protection wheel system.
For the self-launching trailer system, Ellicott partnered with one of the most reputable trailer manufacturers in the United States to develop the Transport-Launch-Retrieve (TLR) trailer system. This allows all Generation IV Versi-Dredge models to be transported fully assembled to the job site and launched efficiently via a boat ramp or a stable shoreline with a gradual slope. The TLR tilt-deck trailer comes standard with a hydraulic tilt deck featuring integrated rollers and keel guides for proper alignment during launching and retrieval, along with a heavy-duty winch system for raising and lowering the dredge. The deck rollers are hydraulically controlled and recess during transport.
An IMS 5012 HP Versi-Dredge launching from a TLR trailer in California.
All Generation IV Versi-Dredge models come with a more spacious modern cab design with ergonomic captain’s chair and integrated dual-joystick controls for all dredge functions. Standard cab features include a slurry sample line with on/off switch in cab, 10 in. (254mm) IQAN screen, climate control, rear back-up camera with color display, marine-grade sound system, digital depth gauge, windshield wiper, indoor and outdoor lighting system, 360-degree LED spotlight with in-cab control, and oversized analog back-lit gauges for clear hydraulic pressure monitoring.
