Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Excavation Experts in Northern Michigan
Darrow Brothers Excavating has been a cornerstone of northern Michigan's construction industry since 1968, founded by Perry and Katie Darrow with a single crane and a rented dump truck. Over five decades, we've evolved into a fourth-generation family business while maintaining our commitment to quality, reliability, and community service. Our expertise spans site preparation, shoreline restoration, and infrastructure development, demonstrated through landmark projects like the Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping development and the installation of Michigan's first wind energy turbines.We combine generational knowledge with modern equipment to deliver precision in foundation excavation, septic system installation, and large-scale demolition. Our team's dedication to client satisfaction is evident in every project, from small residential deliveries to complex commercial developments. With a fleet maintained to the highest standards and a workforce that embodies our core values, we continue to shape northern Michigan's landscape while honoring our founding principles of hard work and integrity.
Services
Site Prep
Grading & Clearing
Driveways
Foundation Excavation
Sewer/Septic Services
Landscaping
Shoreline Demolition
Trucking
Aggregate Delivery
Snow Removal
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- We have over 55 years of experience in northern Michigan's excavation industry
- Fourth-generation family ownership ensures personal commitment to every project
- Specialized in complex shoreline restoration and infrastructure development
- Maintain a modern fleet while preserving historic equipment for specialized needs
- Proven track record with major regional projects like Mackinaw Mill Creek development
Services
Site Prep
Our comprehensive site preparation services transform raw land into development-ready spaces. We handle vegetation removal, topsoil preservation, and grading to create optimal foundations for construction projects of all sizes. With decades of experience in northern Michigan's unique terrain, we ensure proper drainage and compliance with environmental regulations while maintaining the natural character of each site.
Foundation Excavation
Precision foundation excavation is critical for structural integrity. Our team uses advanced equipment to create accurate footings and basement spaces while managing soil stability and water drainage. We follow strict safety protocols and work closely with builders to meet exact specifications for residential and commercial developments across northern Michigan.
Shoreline Demolition
Specializing in sensitive shoreline environments, we perform controlled demolition of aging structures while protecting adjacent ecosystems. Our methods preserve natural habitats during removal of docks, seawalls, and waterfront buildings, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations while preparing sites for modern development.
Trucking
Our comprehensive transportation services move construction materials across challenging northern Michigan terrain. We deliver aggregates, topsoil, and construction supplies to remote locations including Mackinac Island, using specialized equipment and barge operations to overcome logistical challenges while maintaining strict safety standards.
Landscaping
From boulder placement to final grading, our landscaping services complete development projects with aesthetic and functional enhancements. We create sustainable outdoor spaces that complement natural surroundings while implementing erosion control measures and preparing sites for hardscaping and vegetation.
Questions
What excavation services do you offer in northern Michigan?
We provide full-service excavation including site preparation, foundation digging, shoreline restoration, and demolition across northern Michigan, including Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island.
How long has Darrow Brothers Excavating been in business?
We've served northern Michigan since 1968, making us a fourth-generation family-owned business with over 55 years of industry experience.
Do you handle projects on Mackinac Island?
Yes, we regularly transport equipment and materials to Mackinac Island using specialized barge operations for construction and maintenance projects.
What makes your company different from other excavators?
Our generational experience, local knowledge, and commitment to maintaining both modern equipment and historic machinery for specialized needs set us apart in the region.
Can you handle both residential and commercial projects?
We serve both markets, from small driveway excavations to large-scale commercial developments and municipal infrastructure projects across northern Michigan.
