Adequate Depth Assurance Program: Testing and Application of Sedimentation Control Technology in Navy Harbors

摘要

U.S. Navy national defense requirements mandate free and open access for the fleet to and from Navy shore support installations, including harbor and pier facilities. Although the Corps of Engineers is largely responsible for the dredging of ship channels, dredging of turning basins, berthing areas, and docks is a Navy responsibility. In many Navy facilities, sediment accumulations are causing inordinate demands on scarce resources as exhibited by excessive maintenance dredging requirements; delays in transit; increased ship wear due to sea suction ingestion of sediment and fouling organisms; inoperable berths at times of low tide; difficulties in operating floating drydocks and graving docks; and exposure of underwater weapon system appendages to potential damage. The overall objective of the Navy's Adequate Depth Assurance Program is to provide adequate water depth for ships in Navy Harbors. Specific program objectives include: 1) Determine water depth requirements for each Navy harbor; 2)Develop locally optimum methods for providing adequate water depth in Navy harbors; and 3) Develop Navy criteria, specifications, and documentation to deal with present and future sedimentation problems.