Setting Sail: The FREDERICK PAUP and the Future of U.S. Dredging
- Fred Paup
- Jul 8
- 2 min read
Although Merriam-Webster Dictionary asserts that “whoop” is the correct spelling, when it comes to Manson’s new hopper dredge, the FREDERICK PAUP is a BIG “WHUP”! Our team has spent, literally, YEARS planning and overseeing construction of what will be the largest self-propelled trailing suction hopper dredge in US history. Team Manson can take pride in having been a part of this sensational chapter of our 120 years.
Upon his retirement, Glenn Edwards returned a note to me that I had written to him and Eric Haug on April 18, 2003, in which I wanted to discuss building a new hopper dredge. (And, yes, I still have that note!) That dredge became known as the hopper dredge GLENN EDWARDS and has been working continually since 2006. We’ve learned a lot of lessons and made many improvements since then, so that is what arms the FREDERICK PAUP for battle. Let’s go!
As a proud member of the Dredging Contractors of America (“DCA”), Manson supports federal funding for United States Army Corps of Engineers projects, believes that only dredges built, crewed, and flagged in the US should be allowed to perform dredging work (the Jones Act), and that the federal government should only operate dredges when industry cannot respond. We have purpose-built the FREDERICK PAUP for the US market and are eager to let ‘er rip!
Mr. William P. Doyle, the Chief Executive Officer of DCA, had this to say about Manson’s newest dredge:
“Manson Construction’s 15,000-yd3 hopper dredge, FREDERICK PAUP, is another example of the US Jones Act dredging industry investing in America’s future. It is going to be a powerhouse in the highly competitive dredging industry. The company has a highly trained, skilled, and dedicated workforce. They will surely enjoy sailing aboard this best-in-class vessel!
“The US dredging industry is in the midst of more than $3 billion in recapitalization, with a focus on enhancing the capacity and efficiency of the fleet to meet the growing demands of federal and private sector projects. The industry’s ability to deliver cost-effective solutions while contributing to environmental sustainability underscores its vital role in maintaining and improving the nation’s waterways and coastal infrastructure. On the national security side, the private sector dredging industry is responsible for keeping the harbor and waterways navigable for US Department of Defense facilities such as the Naval Submarine Base in Kings Bay, GA, and the Naval Station Norfolk in Norfolk, VA."
Manson is honored to be a part of such a vital industry that helps with commerce and defense of the United States. I am very humbled to be the namesake of this dredge and cannot wait to see what she does over the years!
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