Business Details
33 Years
experience
Expert Low-Impact Excavation Services in Ely, MN
Low Impact Excavators was founded in 1993 by John Wavrin, a professional with over 31 years of experience in heavy equipment operations. Our team of 11 dedicated professionals specializes in environmentally conscious excavation services that prioritize minimal land disruption while meeting project requirements. We focus on septic system installations, home site preparations, road construction, and unique projects involving water-access locations. Our approach combines technical expertise with a commitment to preserving Northern Minnesota's natural landscapes. Licensed septic designers and installers, including John and his son Thad, oversee every project to ensure compliance with local codes and environmental standards.The company owns specialized equipment like a 40'x20' barge to handle challenging terrains and water-based projects. Client testimonials consistently highlight our professionalism, timely execution, and ability to enhance property aesthetics through thoughtful landscaping. We serve both residential and commercial clients across Northern Minnesota, including mainland and water-access properties. Our services extend to land development projects, with two active developments containing 12 parcels for future home construction. The team's expertise in precision blasting and low-impact excavation techniques ensures minimal environmental disturbance while achieving project goals.
Services
Excavating Services
Septic Systems
Road Construction
Landscaping
Special Projects
Developments
Blasting Services
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- 31 years of environmentally conscious excavation expertise
- Licensed septic designers and installers on-site at all times
- Specialized barge for water-access project capabilities
- Precision blasting techniques for challenging terrains
- Commitment to leaving job sites naturally landscaped
What people say
Expert service
Professionalism
Job well done
Enhancing the property
Skillful execution
Services
Excavating Services
Our excavating services combine technical expertise with environmental stewardship to minimize land disruption. We handle projects ranging from home site preparations to complex infrastructure development while maintaining Northern Minnesota's natural beauty. Our team uses precision techniques to remove only necessary materials and restore landscapes post-project.
Septic Systems
We design and install septic systems that blend seamlessly with surrounding environments. Our licensed professionals ensure code compliance while optimizing system functionality. Services include problem analysis, system replacement, and maintenance for residential and commercial properties across diverse terrains.
Special Projects
Our specialized equipment handles unique projects requiring innovative solutions. Using a 40'x20' barge, we tackle water-access locations, building relocations, and foundation installations. This capability enables us to work on islands and difficult mainland sites while maintaining environmental integrity throughout the process.
Road Construction
We create functional roads and driveways that complement natural landscapes. Our approach considers terrain flow, erosion control, and aesthetic integration. Services include wilderness driveway construction, retaining wall installation, and terrain modification to enhance property accessibility while preserving ecological balance.
Land Development
Our land development services prepare parcels for residential construction while maintaining environmental standards. We currently manage two developments totaling 12 home sites, providing complete infrastructure solutions from initial planning to final landscaping that preserves Northern Minnesota's natural character.
People
John Wavrin
Founder
With over 31 years of heavy equipment experience, John founded Low Impact Excavators in 1993 to address environmental concerns in excavation. He oversees all projects and holds septic installation licenses, ensuring technical excellence and ecological responsibility in every job.
Thad
Licensed Septic Installer
Thad works alongside his father John as a licensed septic designer and installer. He contributes technical expertise to septic system projects, demonstrating the company's commitment to professional standards and environmental stewardship through his hands-on approach to problem-solving.
Questions
What makes your excavation services environmentally friendly?
We use precision techniques to remove only necessary materials, preserve natural landscapes, and restore sites to their original condition. Our approach minimizes soil disruption and maintains ecological balance throughout projects.
Do you handle septic system installations in difficult terrain?
Yes, our licensed professionals specialize in septic installations for both mainland and water-access properties. We've successfully completed projects in challenging terrains using specialized equipment and innovative techniques.
What types of special projects can you handle?
Our 40'x20' barge enables water-access projects, building relocations, and foundation installations in remote locations. We tackle challenging tasks while maintaining environmental integrity and project-specific requirements.
Are you available for emergency excavation services?
We focus on scheduled projects rather than emergency services. Our planning process ensures timely completion of all contracted work while maintaining our environmental standards.
Do you offer land development services for residential properties?
Yes, we currently manage two residential developments totaling 12 parcels. Our services include complete infrastructure preparation while maintaining environmental standards and natural aesthetics.