Abstract: A clarifier having a suction-type sludge recovery system is provided with at least one trough extending across the top of the tank and partially submerged in the liquid and a plurality of suction pipes extending from the bottom of the tank to openings in the bottom of the trough. A flow control assembly associated with each of the suction pipes includes a bracket attached to the top of the trough, a damper plate slidable relative to the openings in the trough and a control arm, which is connected to the damper plate and supported by the bracket, for adjusting the orientation of the damper plate, and therefore the flow rate of sludge into the trough. The flow control assembly is offset from the central axis of the suction pipe, so that when the damper plate is open, the suction pipes can be rodded out to disperse clogs.