Now, he said, he's given in to the computer ways of his two sons, Terry Daub and Andy Daub.

The latter has developed programs and computers to help with estimating and tracking work and costs. They also use computers to search for available land to take fill dirt.

"These boys will bring up Google Earth (on a computer)," Daub said. "I want to see it. I'm old-fashioned."

Proceeding with care

Daub and other contractors say it was easier to get rid of dirt years ago than it is now, with federal, state and local laws restricting where different kinds of dirt are dumped. As many previously developed sites are redeveloped, excavating contractors have to proceed cautiously.

They must handle with care filled-in basements, which could contain asbestos, a hazardous material, or petroleum wastes from a gasoline station site.