A self-cleaning, back-washable filter apparatus (1700) and method for use with a pumping apparatus (1734). In one embodiment, the filter apparatus is at least partially immersed in fluid. A sediment removal system is disclosed for removing sediment from around a filter apparatus. The sediment removal system comprises a plurality of venturi jets (1307) configured to force sediment particles through a discharge line and away from the inlet to a filter apparatus. A filtering system is configured to direct a flow of fluid generally parallel to the surface of the filter (1720), which may be a cross-flow filter, to prevent clogging or fouling. In one embodiment, the filtering system is configured to direct the flow of fluid in a spiral flow around the surface of the filter. A method for filtering a flow of fluid comprises directing a flow of fluid generally parallel to the surface of a filter to prevent clogging or fouling of the filter. A method for filtering a flow of fluid is also disclosed, comprising vibrating a filter by applying a flow of fluid to the filter.
