A couple photos from our 2017 rural water supply seminar in Austin County, Texas. The dump site pumper...Bellville Engine 6....used three suction lines in order to maximize water intake. Some of the suction hose had to be gathered from other units as they arrived on the scene, but in the end, two sixes and a 3-inch were used. Nice work....always try to get as much water into your pumper....especially when you are operating as the "source" pumper.
Don't throw away those "pony" suction hoses....they can add maybe 250 gpm to your intake ability at draft.