Trenchers are machines that are primarily responsible for digging trenches. Trenchers come in a variety of sizes, from small push trenchers to large, commercial trenchers that are used in construction and agricultural applications. Trenchers are commonly used to dig trenches for sewer pipes, gas lines, irrigation systems and many other underground systems. Pedestrian trenchers are convenient for residential and small commercial uses.

These trenchers can be used to bury water, sewage, power and communication lines. If damage was done to any of the underground systems that run into residences, a trencher would be the tool used to dig up the damaged pipes and rebury the system once it had been fixed. Large, heavy-duty trenchers are riding units that can be used to dig very large trenches. A variety of attachments are available for these trenchers to make them more versatile. A few of the attachments that can be added to a trencher include backhoes, saws and reel carriers.