Tony Beets Moves Massive Dredge in Bold Bid for Gold at Indian River
Indian River, Yukon – April 6, 2025
Gold miner Tony Beets and his crew have successfully repositioned a 350-ton dredge closer to the thawed pay dirt in the southern section of their pond, marking a major step forward in their mining operations at Indian River.
The move proved to be a significant challenge, as the dredge had been stuck on raised bedrock, and its onboard winch motors lacked the power to free it. To overcome the obstacle, Beets enlisted the help of two D7 anchor dozers, connecting them to the dredge via cables to pull it over the obstruction.
“Everybody clear? Okay, let’s drive this ahead,” Beets instructed as the team coordinated the effort. Despite initial difficulty and the dredge being stuck fast in the dirt, teamwork and determination won out. “A little tug, man… that’s working—it’s coming,” said a crew member as the dredge began to shift.
With Beets handling most of the heavy pulling and additional support from crew member Mike, the dredge was finally freed and floated into position. The moment marked a turning point for the team, who had been unable to dredge for six weeks.
“She’s dredging!” Beets exclaimed triumphantly as the bucket ladder started turning again. The crew began scooping pay dirt, hopeful for a return to gold production.
Beets, known for his gritty determination and colorful personality, expressed his excitement in typical fashion: “So excited I could just piss my pants, you know.”
Now back in operation, the team is optimistic about striking gold in the newly reached thawed area.
“Off dredging we go,” Beets said with a grin, as sluicing resumed at the long-idled site.
