Abstract: A vacuum excavation system is provided in which a vacuum is generated for withdrawing dirt, water or other material from a vacuum excavation site, and whereby such material is delivered to a containment structure, preferably of the hopper type having a discharge. A valve is provided for the vacuum, such that actuation of the valve interrupts the vacuum, whereby material pickup may be discontinued and/or material may be discharged from the containment structure. Preferably the vacuum-controlling valve exists in a conduit between the situs of vacuum generation and a containment structure. The valve will preferably be controlled by a pneumatic/electrical control for operation of the same.The excavation system is preferably vehicle-mounted, with the same motor that drives the vehicle also driving an air compressor for operating a pneumatic tool as well as driving the vacuum generator.