HDD Locator Performs High-Wire Act over the Yellowstone River

Why It Matters

The project proves that advanced HDD and locating technologies can reliably deliver critical broadband infrastructure in remote, high‑risk environments, accelerating fiber expansion into underserved regions.

Key Takeaways

• Ditch Witch AT120 completed 900‑ft and 600‑ft river bores under Yellowstone.
• Subsite Marksman+ locator suspended 60 ft above river for accurate HDD tracking.
• Project finished both crossings in under two weeks despite peak spring runoff.
• Dealer support and pre‑drill vacuum excavation reduced uncertainty and downtime.
• Innovative pulley‑suspended locating proves viable alternative to boat‑based surveys.

Pulse Analysis

Horizontal directional drilling (HDD) has become the go‑to method for crossing waterways without disrupting ecosystems, but extreme conditions like the Yellowstone River’s spring surge test the limits of conventional techniques. In this case, Tru Directional Drilling faced fast‑moving currents, limited bank access, and a required bore length exceeding 600 feet. By leveraging the torque and steering precision of the Ditch Witch AT120, the crew maintained a stable bore path through hard‑rock formations, while real‑time telemetry on thrust and rotation kept the operation on schedule.

The standout innovation was the Subsite Marksman+ locator, hoisted 60 feet above the river via a bridge‑anchored pulley. This elevated setup created an unobstructed line‑of‑sight signal to the drill head, eliminating the need for risky boat‑based surveys. Operators on both banks could monitor pitch, signal strength, and drill‑head position, delivering the accuracy required for a safe crossing. Coupled with a Ditch Witch HX75 vacuum excavator that cleared existing utilities before drilling, the approach minimized uncertainty and reduced the likelihood of costly re‑work.

As broadband providers push into remote, mountainous markets, projects like this illustrate how a blend of robust equipment, creative locating solutions, and responsive dealer support can overcome natural barriers. The success under the Yellowstone River signals that similar high‑risk crossings—whether for fiber, water, or power—are increasingly feasible, shortening deployment timelines and expanding connectivity for communities that have historically been left offline.