Abstract: A compactor and dual paddle wheel mechanism for an aquatic harvester which includes a carriage movably mounted by means of rollers on the deck of the aquatic harvester and characterized by a serpentine chain drive system for selectively moving the carriage forwardly and rearwardly on the deck, and a rake pivoted to the carriage for engaging, relocating, compacting and unloading aquatic growth harvested by the aquatic harvester and deposited on the harvester deck. Dual, independently driven paddle wheels, which include rotating drums shaped by multiple drum panels and spaced drum closure panels, with paddles extending radially from the drums and securely anchored by braces located inside the drums serve to drive and maneuver the aquatic harvester.