This disclosure is directed toward a heated tailgate for use in cold climates. The heated tailgate may be used with a self-contained heated portable vacuum slurry box. The slurry box generally includes a vacuum tank, a structure attached to the tank, a vertical tailgate, and a hook for pulling the slurry box onto a vehicle. The heated tailgate provides that the slurry cuttings within the slurry box which are adjacent to the tailgate do not freeze and provides for a way in which the tailgate may seal to the vacuum box.