# Animas Excavating - Your Trusted Excavation Partner URL: https://www.animasexcavating.com/ ## Your trusted excavation partner in the Four Corners region. Site development, earthwork, and underground utilities for residential, commercial, and municipal projects throughout Southwest Colorado. ## Services Offered - Site Preparation - Excavation - Underground Utilities - Septic Systems - Sewer Line Repair - Demolition - Retaining Walls - Road Construction - Land Clearing - Grading ## Trust Signals - 5.0 Star rating on Google - A+ BBB Rating - 7+ Years Serving the Four Corners - Certified OWTS Installer ## Our Core Services From clearing raw land to installing underground utilities, we handle every phase of site development for residential and commercial projects. ### Residential Construction We specialize in full infrastructure installation on raw land, including land clearing, grading, utility hookups, septic systems, driveways, and access roads. Whether you're building a new home or adding to an existing property, our crew works closely with builders to ensure precise excavation for footers, stem walls, and foundations. We handle the hard rock common in the Durango area and connect you with builders, plumbers, and electricians to keep your project moving. - GPS-assisted precision grading - Free estimates with transparent pricing ### Commercial Construction From subdivision infrastructure to commercial building pads, we bring 3D smart grade GPS satellite technology to every commercial project. This technology eliminates traditional grade stakes and surveying, saving approximately $90,000 in surveying costs on a typical commercial job. We handle stormwater management, main utility lines, large-scale grading, and compaction testing for projects with dirt work up to $1.5 million. - 3D smart grade GPS technology - Government and CDOT contract experience ## About Animas Excavating Animas Excavating is a licensed and insured General Excavation Contractor based in Durango, Colorado. We've been building infrastructure in the Four Corners region since 2018, handling everything from clearing raw land and installing underground utilities to septic systems, sewer line repairs, and commercial site development. What sets us apart is our 3D smart grade GPS satellite technology. Instead of traditional grade stakes and string line, we use software and satellites to grade with precision. It makes us faster, more accurate, and more cost-effective than competitors still using old-school methods. Founded by Mike Zarlingo, we bring deep local expertise and a hands-on approach to every project. We return calls within two hours, get on site within two to three days, and deliver bids within five days. Our crew is led by Mike and foreman Ben Keil, and every project is overseen to ensure work is completed on time, within budget, and to spec. ## People, Quality, and Innovation We are a full-service, fully insured and bonded, privately owned small business serving the Four Corners Region. ### People Our crew is built on experience and trust. Mike Zarlingo brings decades of construction and business expertise, and foreman Ben Keil grew from zero experience to running crews and operating our 3D smart grade GPS in just three years. We treat every customer with honesty and consideration. ### Quality We use 3D smart grade GPS satellite technology to deliver precision grading that traditional methods can't match. No grade stakes, no string line, no weekly surveyor visits. Just accurate, efficient earthwork backed by a 5.0 Google rating across 24 reviews. ### Innovation We're a technology company that happens to do excavation. Our 3D smart grade system uses the same satellite equipment as professional surveyors, cutting approximately $90,000 in surveying costs on a typical commercial job. It's why we're faster and more cost-effective than the competition. ## Comprehensive Excavation Services No project is too large or too small for our specialized fleet of equipment. - Site Preparation and Grading - Excavation (including rock excavation) - Underground Utilities (water, sewer, storm drain, gas) - Sewer Line Repair (from the main to your house) - Septic Systems (certified OWTS installer) - Roads and Driveways - Demolition (residential and commercial) - Retaining Walls - Land Clearing - 3D Smart Grade GPS Technology 200+ Projects Completed ## Proudly Serving Southwest Colorado Animas Excavating serves Durango, Bayfield, Hesperus, Mancos, Cortez, Pagosa Springs, and communities throughout the Four Corners region. We understand the unique geological challenges of Southwest Colorado, from hard rock excavation to engineered septic systems for difficult terrain, and we bring local expertise to every project. ## Customer Reviews ### Larry Milliken (Google) I recently hired Animas Excavating LLC in Durango, CO to do all of the site excavating, septic system, and utility ditches for a house we are building in Bayfield, CO. They did a very professional job with all aspects of the work, were timely and responsive to minor changes, and were a pleasure to work with. I would hire them again if the need arises. ### Matt Sandor (Google) Our HOA hired Animas to clean our culverts. We are absolutely thrilled with the results! Mike and his team were prompt, diligent and conscientious. And most importantly, they delivered exactly what they promised... and more! I would not hesitate to hire Animas again for work in our HOA or in my home. ### John Wilson (Google) I had a great experience with Animas Excavation this summer (2025). Mike and his crew helped me with all aspects of site development on my new residential project. From grubbing, pads, footing excavation, driveway construction and septic work, they excelled. They were also flexible as things changed and their prices were fair. Mike also is well connected in the Durango area and was able to refer me to other trades / vendors when requested. I strongly recommend Animas Excavation for any site related work. ### Don Fogel (Google) Animas constructed three rock walls for me. They sourced the rock and were able to find square cut or blasted granite that stacked to almost eight feet. They started when they said they would and worked steadily until finishing. They accommodated a few scope and material changes and charged fairly for those changes. They followed the engineer's plans for the wall and did not cut corners. The walls look, to me at least, very good; I attribute that to the rock Animas found and the quality of their work. I highly recommend Animas. ### Jenny OBlock (Google) Michael Zarlingo, Animas Excavating, showed up immediately to assess and fix a leak associated with our irrigation system (ball valve failed). Michael worked tirelessly for almost two days, one of which was a holiday, to make the necessary repairs. Michael was responsive, easy to communicate with, and his fee was reasonable. We are very grateful for Michael and the work he did for us. ### Thomas (Google) You guys did an amazing job, got it knocked out quick for the size and scope (roughly 5,000 sq. ft. building with water lines, septic and foundation with all those piers) and easy to work with. Everything looked great, we couldn't have hired a better crew of guys. I would recommend you to anyone who was looking for excavation work to be done. ### James W (Google) Mike and his team kicked butt on a sewer line replacement that had a collapsed saddle at the main sewer in the street. Mike was also patient and responsive to ongoing additional documentation I needed to get reimbursed by my service line insurer AWR. ### Alex Pusztai (Google) Mike and the whole crew at Animas Excavating have been more than accommodating and very professional at every step of our project. When plans changed they were flexible, when feedback and professional input was needed they were more than helpful in sharing their expertise, and they have been very communicative throughout our 6+ month long project. I would highly recommend them for any of your excavation needs and will be using them for all projects in the future. ## Contact Information - Address: 2942 E 4th Ave, Durango, CO 81301 - Phone: (970) 403-2787 - Email: mike@animasexcavating.com --- # Services - Animas Excavating URL: https://www.animasexcavating.com/services/ ## We Offer a Range of Services to Meet Your Needs At Animas Excavating, we use GPS machine controls and expert craftsmanship to deliver high-quality results efficiently. We handle all excavation needs, from demolition and grading to underground utilities like water and sewer mains for both commercial and residential projects. Whether it's road building, asphalt prep, retaining walls, or foundations, we have the skills and technology to get the job done right. ## Commercial Construction Our team at Animas Excavating is experienced in handling commercial construction projects of all sizes. From site preparation to utility installation, we ensure the project is completed efficiently and to the highest standards. ### What We Do Large and small scale demolition. Sewer Main, Water Main. Fire Suppression Lines, All Storm Drain Components, Sand Oil Interceptors, E-One Lift Stations, Detention Ponds, Retaining Walls. Subgrade and final grade for Asphalt and Curb and Gutter. Building Foundations. ## Residential Construction At Animas Excavating, we take pride in our residential construction services. Whether it's a new construction project or a renovation, our skilled team is committed to delivering exceptional results while meeting all project requirements. ### What We Do Demolition, Land Clearing, Road Construction, Septic, Water, Power, Building Foundations, Retaining Walls. ## Contact Information - Address: 2942 E 4th Ave, Durango, CO 81301 - Phone: (970) 403-2787 - Email: mike@animasexcavating.com --- # About Us - Animas Excavating URL: https://www.animasexcavating.com/about-us/ ## Animas Excavating Animas Excavating is a full-service, fully insured and bonded, privately owned small business serving the Four Corners Region. We specialize in underground utilities, septic systems, land clearing, land infrastructure, footings, roads, water and sewer infrastructure. Animas Excavating has a solid reputation of honest, fair, reliable and quality service. ## Trust Signals - 5.0 Star rating on Google - A+ BBB Rating - 7+ Years Serving the Four Corners - Certified OWTS Installer ## Client Partnerships Our client partnerships are built on trust, integrity, and mutual respect. We strive to understand our clients' needs and deliver exceptional results that exceed their expectations. ## Expertise At Animas Excavating, we believe our team is our greatest asset. Our employees are the driving force behind our success. With comprehensive expertise and proven experience, our dedicated field teams enable us to solve complex construction challenges and consistently meet client expectations. At Animas Excavating, we all work together to see each project through to completion. Our leadership takes active roles in managing, directing, and implementing all projects. ## Commitment We are committed to upholding the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and ethical conduct in all aspects of our work. ## Our Mission - Simplifying the Heavy Lifting We do the heavy lifting, taking on complex infrastructure projects with efficiency and expertise. Our mission is to simplify the process for our clients by delivering high-quality results on time and within budget, eliminating the stress and excessive costs often associated with long, drawn-out projects. We are committed to providing dependable solutions that keep your project moving forward with confidence. 200+ Projects Completed ## Contact Information - Address: 2942 E 4th Ave, Durango, CO 81301 - Phone: (970) 403-2787 - Email: mike@animasexcavating.com --- # Contact Us - Animas Excavating URL: https://www.animasexcavating.com/contact/ ## Have Questions? Reach Out to Us We are here to answer any questions you may have. Feel free to contact us using the form below or give us a call at 970-403-2787. ## Contact Information - Address: 2942 E 4th Ave, Durango, CO 81301 - Phone: (970) 403-2787 - Email: mike@animasexcavating.com Service area: Durango, Bayfield, Hesperus, Mancos, Cortez, Pagosa Springs, and the Four Corners region of Southwest Colorado. --- # Projects - Animas Excavating URL: https://www.animasexcavating.com/projects/ ## Quality Excavation Services You Can Trust We are a full-service, fully insured and bonded, privately owned small business serving the Four Corners Region. We specialize in underground utilities, septic systems, land clearing, land infrastructure, footings, roads, water and sewer infrastructure. Animas Excavating has a solid reputation of honest, fair, reliable and quality service. Note: This page consists primarily of a photo gallery of completed projects in the Four Corners region. Individual project descriptions are not included in the page text at this time. ## Contact Information - Address: 2942 E 4th Ave, Durango, CO 81301 - Phone: (970) 403-2787 - Email: mike@animasexcavating.com --- ## Pages with No Skipped URLs All 5 pages from the approved list were successfully fetched and extracted.