This is the walking drag line excavator we saw while passing through Estevan, Saskatchewan. There are several coal mines nearby that are actively working, and several of these huge excavators. Occasionally they have to be moved across the highway, which requires the construction of an earth roadway so that the pavement isn't destroyed. These drag lines are powered by electric motors, so they also have a huge power cable. A 'walking drag line' is an excavator where the bucket is dragged by cables, rather than lifted by an arm. This allows the bucket to be much larger than those on shovels. Drag lines, because of their enormous size, can't move with wheels or bulldozer tracks; they move forwards using hydraulically operated 'feet', which raise and lower, one at a time. That's why they're called 'walking' drag lines. Below is a large photo of the mining operation at Bienfait, near Estevan. Notice the size of the other vehicles, even the earthmovers at the bottom of the pit, in comparison to the walking drag line. An old dragline bucket. Emily is standing inside; she's just over 5 feet 10 inches tall. This is one big bucket! Notice the teeth along the bottom edge; they're attached with bolts so that they can be replaced if they break or wear out. Back