Abstract: A detachable hopper and vacuum apparatus which includes a mobile, detachable hopper adapted for use with the vacuum apparatus of this invention or towed by a tractor or alternative towing vehicle or apparatus, and characterized by a sliding tongue which is extendible in one embodiment for coupling to the towing apparatus and retractable in a second embodiment for coupling to the vacuum apparatus by means of a dual-contact coupling system. The hinged panel defines the upper half of the front panel of the detachable hopper and features a window for receiving the discharge chute of the towing vehicle or vacuum apparatus. Pivoting tandem wheels are provided on the detachable hopper for easily traversing uneven terrain.