Seagrass Control Project: Containment Boom Evaluation. A Method to Protect Seawater Intakes from Seagrass Accumulation

摘要

Blockage of shipboard seawater intakes by drifting seagrass has historically created significant engineering problems requiring diver assistance and/or pump replacement. Blockage can be successfully prevented using an off-the-self, GSA approved, containment boom system. A heavy-duty vinyl-coated nylon containment curtain (300 ft long x 4 ft deep) with 6-inch diameter floats and 1/4-inch galvanized chain ballasts was found to be effective in preventing drifting seagrass from entering a boomed test berth. This report presents the findings of a 5-month study conducted at Trumbo Annex, NAVSTA Key West with the assistance and cooperation of COMPHMRON-TWO.