Abstract: A collapsible aquatic enclosure apparatus is described for use in capturing, isolating and removing contaminants and otherwise easily dispersed aquatic sediments and detritus in water bodies. The collapsible aquatic enclosure can also be used for removal and control of targeted aquatic fauna and flora. Once deployed, the collapsible enclosure creates an isolated volume of water above the target aquatic area. Internal plunger and pipe intake structure within the enclosure provide agitation to remove contaminants, sediments and detritus and targeted fauna and flora residues inside the collapsible apparatus. Methods for using the collapsible aquatic enclosure apparatus are also described.

Abstract: The primary function of the collapsible enclosure is to capture, isolate, and allow for the permanent removal of otherwise easily dispersed contaminates in aquatic sediments and detritus of water bodies. Once deployed, the collapsible enclosure creates an isolated volume of water above these media. Contaminated sediments and detritus covered by the enclosure can then be efficiently removed either by their dissociation from sediment and detritus and into a soluble form within the enclosed water volume or by suspension of contaminated sediments and detritus within the enclosure. The dissolved or suspended contaminants within the enclosure could then be removed by an external pump, for treatment or disposal of recovered water and solids. This invention can also control invasive, noxious or nuisance densities of aquatic plants and animals (such as zebra mussels) by placing enclosures over the area of concern and creating appropriate physical or chemical conditions within the enclosure.