| A trenasse digger is a motorized boat used to dig small canals through marshlands, allowing fisher folk to gain access to otherwise inaccessible fishing spots. |
| Marsh Fact: Trenasse diggers have been around since 1950, homemade by local craftsmen. |
| The pipe running alongside at the base of the boat's exterior was part of its cooling system. The marsh water cooled the pipe, which in turn cooled the radiator water in the pipe, which in turn cooled the engine. |
| Blades on the front of the boat would spin in opposite directions, grinding up marsh mud and plants, forming a ditch in its wake. |
| Marsh Fact: A trenasse is a small canal cut through a marsh or bayou. |
| The control panel at the back end of the boat, was operated by a person walking alongside the boat, guiding it on its path through the marsh. The boat was not designed to carry persons, not even the driver! |
| The engines were heavy and tough, mounted in the rear under the control panel. This 35 year old engine is rusted and rotted from years of exposure and neglect. The rusted exhaust in the foreground, and radiator to the back right are clearly visible. |
| Marsh Fact: This trenasse digger can be seen at the WIldlife & Fisheries Museum |
| Heat is further dispersed through a small vent in the engine housing. As you can see, the engine is connected to an axle, turning the gears at the front end of the boat. |
| These gears are responsible for turning the blades in opposite directions. The boat does not propel itself, so operators punt (push by pole) the boat to and from locations, the operator standing on the back deck. The boat is dragged along by hand while it is digging. |
Trenasse Digger