Marine

Our Markets: Marine

Navigating Marine Challenges with Decades of Proven Experience

Since 1980, Helm has been a trusted partner in the Upper Mississippi River Basin, delivering complex marine construction projects with precision and safety. As a preferred contractor for the US Army Corps of Engineers, we specialize in lock and dam projects, river crossings, concrete repairs, bridge demolition, and erosion protection. With a state-of-the-art fleet, we handle both above-water and underwater construction, demolition, and inspections in the most challenging environments.

The Power of Preparation & Innovation

Marine construction demands meticulous planning and an unrelenting focus on safety. At Helm, we approach every project—whether on land or water—with the same rigorous safety protocols. This dedication is reflected in our industry-leading Experience Modification Rate (EMR) across all divisions, including our robust marine operations. Learn more about our approach to safety and the KPIs we measure against.

“Marine work is inherently high-risk,” says Brian Helm, CEO. “Our teams execute every task as if they’re working inside a 40-foot-deep cofferdam with rising water levels. This mindset not only safeguards our team but also ensures the flawless execution of our projects.”

Planning is at the core of everything we do. Whether it’s overcoming the challenges of river crossings or repairing aging locks, we rely on meticulous planning and cutting-edge technology to deliver gold-standard results. Our commitment to excellence ensures that every marine project is executed with precision, safety, and the highest quality craftsmanship.

Customized Marine Solutions to Meet Unique Challenges

No two marine projects are alike, and Helm understands that achieving success on the water requires flexible, customized approaches. If you’re ready to explore how Helm can help solve your marine construction challenges, let’s start a conversation today.

Our Marine
Services Include:

River Crossings & Underwater Construction
Concrete Dam Repair & Construction
Erosion Protection with Rip Rap and Sheet Piling Installation
Rehabilitation of Locks & Dams
Lock Gate Installation & Repair
Cofferdams, Coffer Cells, and Sheet Pile Containment Structures
Dewatering Active Waterways
Precision Bridge Demolition

Building with Purpose

Innovation Driven by Craftsmanship

Discover how we bring precisions, innovation, and purpose to each project by exploring our capabilities.

Lock and Dam

We deliver durable, innovative solutions for waterway infrastructure, addressing challenges like aging structures and sediment control to ensure safe, efficient navigation.

Explore our Marine Projects

Lock and Dam 11, Mississippi River Major Rehabilitation

The complete lock between Dubuque, Iowa and Grant County, Wisconsin was dewatered and refaced on both sides in one 3-month winter shutdown. The existing lock face was removed and rebar installed, then...

Lock and Dam 12, Mississippi River

The project in Belleview, Iowa was a complete refacing of the existing lock. Precast concrete panels were placed immediately in front of the existing wall and the void was filled with concrete. This p...

Lock and Dam 15 Mississippi River Guidewall Replacement

Work on this Lock and Dam was done off of Arsenal Island and barges. Helm replaced 400 feet of guidewall over 3 winter seasons. For each repair, a cofferdam was built on the river side. Next, the c...

Together, We Build the Future

Whether you’re interested in our services, have a question, or want to discuss a project, we’re here to help. Reach out to us today, and let’s start the conversation.