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VICKSBURG NS OFFICE OF TECHNICAL PROGRAMS AND PLANS
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MISCELLANEOUS PAPER 0-86-1
0
iVLVl
A CAPSULE
OF
CIVIL WORKS RESEARCH
AND DEVELOPMENT
1977-1986
by
Alfred W. Ford
Office of Technical Programs and Plans
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
Waterways Experiment Station, Corps of Engineers
PO Box 631, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180-0631
DTIC
^|ELECTE
VoCT 16 1986
D
October 1986
Final Report
Approved For Public Release; Distribution Unlimited
Prepared for
Office, Chief of Engineers
Directorate of Research and Development
Corps of Engineers, US Army
Washington, DC 20314-1000
86
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REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE
lb. RESTRICTIVE MARKINGS
1*. REPORT SECURITY CLASSIFICATION
Unclassified
it SECURITY CLASSIFICATION AUTHORITY
2b. DECLASSIFICATION / DOWNGRADING SCHEDULE
4. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMSER(S)
Miscellaneous Paper 0-86-1
6a. NAME OF PERFORMING ORGANIZATION
USAEWES, Office of Technical
Programs and Plans
Sc. ADDRESS (City. SUM. and ZIP Cod*)
PO Box 631
Vicksburg, MS 391806631
6a. NAME OF FUNOING/SPONSORING
ORGANIZATION
US Army Corps of Engineers
8c. ADDRESS (CRy, Scat*, and ZIP Cod*)
Washington, DC 20314-1000
11. TITLE (Mud* Security Cltssifkttion)
A Capsule of Civil Works Research and Development, 1977-1986
12 personal author($)
Ford, Alfred W.
13a TYPE OF REPORT
Final report
16 SUPPLEMENTARY NOTATION
Available from National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road,
Springfield, VA 22161.
17 COSATI CODES | 18. SUBJECT TERMS (Conrtnue on reverse/fnacetsary and KMntiiy by Mock number)
T Tmtnci Qfotoe Ammi nrrinoom’mrr loKnvatntnoo.
J DISTRIBUTION/AVAILABILITY Of REPORT
Approved for public release; distribution unlimited
S. MONITORING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER(S)
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7b ADDRESS (City, State, *nd ZIP Codt)
8b. OFFICE SYMBOL I 9. PROCUREMENT INSTRUMENT IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
(If tppUctbh) I
10. SOURCE OF FUNDING NUMBERS
PROJECT
NO
United States. Army. Corps
of Engineers-Civil functions
k Public works research y
‘Engineering laboratories;
Engineering research. __
19 ABSTRACT (Continue on reverse if necesury tnd idtntify by block number)
-* Civil Works Research and Development Programs seek solutions to national, regional, and local problems
related to water and water-related resources management and development. Typically, the Corps of
Engineers has undertaken numerous projects, such as (1) improved flood control and damage mitigation by
constructing dams, reservoirs, levees, floodwalls, channel improvements, and diversions; (2) improved
commercial and recreational navigation in harbors, channels, canals, and inland, intracoastal, and coastal
waterways; (3) improved erosion control and shore protection, including inland and coastal beaches, and
river channel and bank stabilization; (4) improved water-oriented recreational opportunities; (5) improved
municipal and industrial water supplies; (6) pollution abatement; and (7) preservation and enhancement of
fish, wildlife, and aesthetic, cultural, and other environmental values.
Research and development by the Co'ps of Engineers provides essential support to these Civil Works
missions by finding solutions to the many technical, safety, environmental, and economic problems which
arise during the life of a project from its planning and design to its construction and operation and
maintenance. ICt-G-.lAOrcds.
The progress of tne Corps of Engineers in attaining these objectives over the last ten years is measured in
this report.
20 DISTRIBUTION/AVAILABILITY OF ABSTRACT
H UNCLASSIFIED/UNLIMITED □ SAME AS RPT □ OTIC USERS
21 abstract SECURITY CLASSIFICATION I
Unclassified f
22a NAME OF RESPONSIBLE INDIVIDUAL
22b TELEPHONE (include Area Code)
22c OFFICE SYMBOL |
All other editions are obsolete
Unclassified
PREFACE
Civil Works Research and Development Programs seek solutions to national,
regional, and local problems related to water and water-related resources
management and development. Typically, the Corps of Engineers has undertaken
numerous projects, such as (1) improved flood control and damage mitigation by
constructing dams, reservoirs, levees, floodwalls, channel improvements, and
diversions; (2) improved commercial and recreational navigation in harbors,
channels, canals, and inland, intracoastal, and coastal waterways; (3) improved
erosion control and shore protection, including inland and coastal beaches, and
river channel and bank stabilization; (4) improved water-oriented recreational
opportunities; (5) improved municipal and industrial water supplies; (6) pollution
abatement; and (7) preservation and enhancement of fish, wildlife, and aesthetic,
cultural, and other environmental values.
Research and development by the Corps of Engineers provides essential
support to these Civil Works missions by finding solutions to the many technical,
safety, environmental, and economic problems which arise during the life of the
project from its pl an ni n g and design to its construction and operation and
maintenance.
The progress of the Corps of Engineers in attaining these objectives over the
last ten years is measured in this report.
This report was written by Mr. Alfred W. Ford, Office of Technical Programs
and Plans, US Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station (WES), Vicksburg,
Miss. Mrs. Jamie W. Leach of the WES Information Technology Laboratory
(ITL) edited this report. Mrs. Loriece M. Beall of ITL designed and composed the
layout.
COL Dwayne G. Lee, CE, is the Commander and Director of WES. Dr. Robert
W. Whalin is the Technical Director.
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CONTENTS
PREFACE
Parti: INTRODUCTION
Part II: SAVINGS THROUGH CIVIL WORKS RESEARCH
Part III: RESEARCH AREAS AND PROGRAMS
Materials.
Soils .
Rock .
Concrete .
Structural engineering
Electrical/mechanical
Coastal Engineering..
Coastal flooding and storm protection ..
Harbor entrances and coastal channels
Shore protection and restoration.
Coastal structure evaluation and design
Flood Control and Navigation
Flood-control hydraulics ..
Navigation hydraulics
Hydrology of cold regions .
Ice engineering .
Environmental Quality ..
Environmental impact
Wetlands.
Water Resources Planning Studies
Planning methodologies .
Analytical techniques.
Water supply and conservation
Risk analysis.
Surveying and Satellite Applications
Surveying and mapping.
Remote sensing.
Part IV
Construction, Operation, and Maintenance .
Operation and maintenance management .
Energy.
Improvement of operation and maintenance techniques
Long-term effects of dredging operations.
Natural resources.
Water quality.
1 : CONCLUDING REMARKS .
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Parti
INTRODUCTION
Research and development (R&D) underpins the Civil Works program by
improving the Corps of Engineers’ capability to accomplish its water resources
mission and program with optimum effectiveness, economy, and safety, and with
effective concern for protection or enhancement of environmental and social
values. Some of these evolve from new Executive Orders, legislative requirements
levied through other agencies, and regulatory standards imposed against projects
constructed prior to the establishment of such standards. With comprehensive
planning and with concern for mitigation of environmental impact and energy
conservation, the Civil Works research program is strongly addressing problems
generated by these concerns. Because of the increasing age of more and more
Corps water resource facilities, greater emphasis is being placed on R&D
concerning the repair, evaluation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of these water
resource facilities.
The R&D effort is a highly applied effort, utilizing in part products and
techniques developed by industry and universities, and adapting them to Civil
Works needs. This R&D effort is essentially a “problem solving” process by which
the Corps systematically examines new ideas, approaches, and techniques, with a
view toward improving the efficiency of its planning, design, construction,
operations, and maintenance activities. In considering the Civil Works R&D
program against the background of the overall mission it supports, it should be
noted that this mission is the most widespread and varied of the several Federal
water resources programs. Yet, in comparison to many other Federal agencies
and private industry, the Corps of Engineers spends very little on R&D.
The Corps manages and conducts Civil Works R&D through its four research
centers: the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory at Hanover,
New Hampshire; the Construction Engineering Research Laboratory at
Champaign, Illinois; the Waterways Experiment Station at Vicksburg, Missis¬
sippi; and the Engineer Topographic Laboratories at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Some
elements of Civil Works R&D are also assigned to the Corps’ Institute for Water
Resources at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, and the Hydrologic Engineering Center at
Davis, California. Approximately 65 percent of the current research effort is
accomplished in-house and the remainder is performed by universities, other
government agencies, or private firms.
If the Corps is to take advantage of rapidly developing technologies and
techniques which offer the possibility of significant monetary savings and
greater reliability, safety, and overall effectiveness, it must pursue an aggressive
R&D effort. The added complexities of environmental and social considerations,
the mounting concern with urban problems, and the urgent requirement to
balance the Federal budget and get the maximum return for every Federal dollar
US Army Corps of Engineers research and development community.
spent necessitate, more than ever, increased emphasis on new approaches and
methods.
The US Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory
(CRREL) conducts R&D in support of a broad range of Civil Works mission
areas which include ice engineering, river ice management, Civil Works remote
sensing, and cold regions hydrology.
The US Army Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL)
is engaged in R&D of building materials, utilities, and structures; integrating
technological developments into construction; and developing and evaluating the
principles of systems engineering and applying the systems approach to the life-
cycle requirements of facilities and their management. The life cycle includes all
the processes from planning, design, and construction, through operation,
maintenance, and replacement.
The US Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station (WES) is the
largest R&D and testing complex of the Corps. The functional organization of the
WES includes six engineering laboratories: Hydraulics, Geotechnical, Structures,
Environmental, Coastal Engineering Research Center, and the Information
Technology Laboratory. Its Hydraulics Laboratory is large and well equipped
with approximately 60 active models of river basins, dams and reservoirs,
navigation locks, estuaries, and harbors. In addition, extensive capabilities exist
in numerical hydrodynamic modeling. These models have resulted in improved
methods of flood control, safer navigation facilities, conservation of water
resources, safer and cleaner harbors and waterways, more efficient and less
costly hydraulic structures, protection and improvement of the environment, and
other related benefits. WES is also engaged in R&D, engineering investigations,
and other testing and studies in the fields of soil and rock mechanics, earthquake
engineering, foundations, engineering geology and geophysics, Portland cement
and bituminous concrete, aquatic plant control, dredging technology, water
quality improvement, and environmental sciences. The prevailing mild climate at
this facility permits almost uninterrupted outdoor testing throughout the year.
The Coastal Engineering Research Center (CERC) has recently been moved from
Fort Belvoir, Virginia, to WES. This move has achieved economies and
strengthened the Corps’ coastal engineering research program. As one of the
laboratories at WES, CERC will continue to conduct R&D to provide a better
understanding of shore processes, winds, waves, tides, surges, currents, and
materials as they apply to navigation improvements, flood storm protection,
beach erosion control, recreation, and protection of structures in the coastal zone.
The US Army Engineer Topographic Laboratories (ETL) accomplishes
research, development, testing, and evaluation of systems, equipment, procedures
and techniques applicable to the terrestrial and topographic sciences.
The US Army Engineer Institute for Water Resources (IWR) is
concerned with comprehensive river basin and regional planning, formulation,
and evaluation of proposed projects and project-systems, including consideration
of nonstructural alternatives as well as identification and evaluation of
applicable economic, social, and environmental factors. IWR also evaluates
education and training needs and capabilities for water resources planners,
develops and administers training programs for planners, and monitors
utilization of trained planners throughout the Corps.
The US Army Engineer Hydrologic Engineering Center (HEC)
concentrates on four functional areas: R&D, training, methods systematization,
and technical assistance and advice to field offices. Hydrologic engineering R&D
conducted or administered by HEC supplements relevant research in universities
and other organizations to meet the practical needs of Corps field offices.
Training activities, primarily in the form of short-course modules, are designed to
provide Corps employees with information on both basic and advanced
techniques in hydrologic engineering. The development of a library of generalized
computer programs in hydrologic engineering, and the development of procedures
for expanding the use of statistical analyses and stochastic variations in
planning, design, and operation of water resources projects and systems, are
major components of the methods systematization program. Under its technical
assistance program, HEC advises Corps field offices on the application of new or
unfamiliar procedures for the solution of hydrologic problems in multipurpose
projects, the estimation of flood frequency and flood magnitude, and the analysis
of hydrologic and economic consequences of channel improvement.
Part II
SAVINGS THROUGH CIVIL WORKS RESEARCH
One of the most meaningful measures of the value of research is the benefits,
both monetary and intangible, which accrue through applications of the
knowledge developed.
Not every research project will produce savings that are easily translated into
dollars; some will serve to augment existing confidence in current techniques or
designs, and others will better establish the degree of safety vital to large water
resources development structures. Some may result in increased project con¬
struction or operational costs, although the safety or service life will be enhanced.
Results of research studies which were applied to the planning, design,
construction, and operation of actual structures or projects were evaluated by the
District offices of the Corps of Engineers, and the composite benefits are shown in
the following tabulation. The monetary values represent savings realized only
during the 1977-1986 decade. Benefits cited are limited to those directly applicable
to Civil Works functions, and no attempt was made to incorporate instances where
results were possibly utilized by the military or other governmental agencies or by
industry.
Even though the cited cost savings in the following paragraphs exceed $500
million, no attempt was made to include all of the Corps’ Civil Works Research
Program results which have produced cost savings for this period. Only a few
examples have been cited that significantly demonstrate the fact that not only
does each program have a cost-benefit ratio that has provided a substantial return
on investment to date, but they also provide savings on a continuing basis at a
rate conservatively estimated to exceed $82 million per year. These savings have re¬
sulted from a total research investment of $185 million for the cited 10-year period.
Savings of Civil Works Research, 1977-1986
Problems Addressed Solution Savings
Research Area: Materials
Program: Soils
Design and construction of Developed methodologies for $1.270.000 on one
embankments on soft and failed analytical, quality control, and prototype structure
foundations performance monitoring.
Liquefaction of soils during Improved physical and analytical $20,000,000 failure
earthquakes testing procedures for evaluating prevented at one
liquefaction susceptibility structure
Inability to predict earthquake- Improved testing procedures for $15,000,000
induced sliding of dams and analyzing possible sliding elimination in
embankments displacements dynamic analyses at
Savings of Civil Works Research, 1977-1986 (Continued)
Problems Addressed Solution Savings
Program: Soils
Uncertainties in methods for Improved laboratory and field $750,000 on one
compaction control of soils procedures to account for effects of project
containing oversized particles oversized particles on moisture-
density relationships
Intangible Benefits Realized
If these capabilities had been available in the 1958-1960 period, the failure of Waco Dam could have
been prevented with realizable costs savings of $11,000,000. These improved technologies provide
greater reliability with respect to performance and safety, reducing the potential for similar or more
catastrophic failures.
Program: Rock
Safety of life and functional
capability of large engineering
projects, particularly major dams,
susceptible to earthquakes
Reliable stability assessment of
new and existing structures under
expected prototype loading
conditions
Inadequate testing equipment and
procedures for determining the
permeability of rock masses
Provided state-of-the-art methods Intangible
for evaluating seismic hazards
Developed procedures for selecting Intangible
design shear strengths for sliding
stability assessments
Developed new equipment and $120,000 annually
procedures which greatly improve
the understanding of water flow in
rock masses
Intangible Benefits Realized
Specific savings are intimately correlated with probabilities of earthquake occurrence near
structures incorporating design features and modifications. To date no Corps of Engineers dam has
failed because of an earthquake but to put some perspective to the consequence of a dam failure, the
cost associated with a major failure is estimated to be several hundred million dollars with an
associated loss of scores of lives. Replacement cost is also estimated to be several hundred million
dollars.
Program: Concrete
Lack of economical mass concrete Developed procedures for using
dam construction methods roller-compacted concrete (RCC)
$2,000,000 on Willow
Creek Dam
Determination of the earliest time
that form work can be safely
removed from concrete
Construction and repair of stilling
basins
Developed methods for the early
removal of concrete forms based on
concrete temperature exposure
equated to strength gain
Developed methods for using high
strength silica fume concrete
$500,000 annually
$100,000 annually per
application (there are
20 stilling basins
requiring repair
currently)
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Savings of Civil Works Research, 1977-1986 (Continued)
..
Problems Addressed
Solution
Savings
Program: Concrete
Determination of the spacing and
size of dowels needed to anchor
replacement concrete to vertical
walls of navigation locks
Developed design procedures which
use one fourth as many dowels as
before
$1,200,000 annually
Inability to inspect stilling basins
and lock chambers while filled
Developed a high-resolution
acoustic mapping system for
assessing underwater structures
without dewatering the project
$250,000 per
application
Lack of use of high-range water-
reducing admixtures
Developed methodologies for using
these admixtures in certain classes
of concrete
$750,000 annually
Lack of an evaluation of
nonmetallic water stops
Standardized Corps specifications
for the use of nonmetallic water
stop and joint material
$175,000 annually
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Intangible Benefits Realized
Intangible benefits result from an improved understanding of concrete construction materials and
techniques which translates to safer and more economical and durable structures.
Program: Structural Engineering
Unavailability of computer-aided
structural engineering techniques
for Civil Works projects
Developed and released 39
structural engineering computer
programs
$6,000,000 annually
Unavailability of guidance and
simplified analytical procedures for
designing and analyzing hydraulic
structures
Developed computer programs to
analyze two-dimensional geometry,
shallow foundation problems, and
soil-structure interaction of sheet
walls and axially loaded piles
Intangible
Lack of design guidance for gravity
dams subjected to seismic loads
Developed a simplified procedure
for the seismic design of
nonoverflow monoliths
Intangible
Intangible Benefits Realized
Indirect monetary savings will be realized throughout the design life of concrete gravity dams as
these methods are used to assess the safety of massive concrete structures.
Program: Electrical/Mechanical
Lack of adequate design criteria for
pumping stations sumps and
discharge outlets
Developed new design guidance for
sump geometry, pump location, and
pump intake shape to achieve
improved performance
$500,000 annually
Corrosion-related failures at locks
and dams
Determined cause of failures and
recommended corrosion-resistant
materials for five specific-
installations
$6,300,000
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Savings of Civil Works Research, 1977-1986 (Continued)
Problems Addressed.
Solution
Savings
Research Area: Coastal Engineering
Program: Coastal Flooding and Storm Protection
Inability to predict shallow water
waves
Lack of laboratory simulation of
directional spectral waves in
physical models
Instituted a long-term data $2,500,000 annually
collection program and developed
numerical models for natural waves
Used the new directional spectral $3,000,000 annually
wave generator to improve ability
to simulate “real world” waves
Lack of sufficient high-quality,
long-term field data
Instituted a long-term $300,000 per
meteorological and oceanographic application
data collection program for use in
model evaluation
Inability to determine the cause of
the hurricane-induced forerunner
surge
Developed a numerical model to $500,000 annually
determine the magnitude and
extent of the forerunner surge
which resulted in less costly coastal
structures
Unavailability of coastal numerical Developed a user-friendly model $9,000,000 annually
models system which provides solution
algorithms for various coastal
numerical models
Intangible Benefits Realized
Damage and morphological changes to coastal areas are most pronounced during severe episodic
events. Heretofore, acquisition of prototype data were rarely successful because available
techniques were inadequate. Development of new techniques and equipment have made data
acquisition possible resulting in a better understanding of the physical processes occurring during
severe events.
Program: Harbor Entrances and Coastal Channels
Lack of knowledge for predicting
wave conditions and interactions in
harbor entrances and inlets
Developed hybrid numerical models $4,200,000 annually
to predict wave conditions and
wave interactions in harbor
entrances and inlets
Lack of information for
determining the stability of natural
and dredged channels and ebb tidal
delta evolutionary sequences
Standardized methods for $7,000,000 annually
predicting shoaling rates;
developed analytical techniques for
predicting shoaling rates in tidal
inlets
Savings of Civil Works Research, 1977-1986 (Continued)
Problems Addressed
Solution
Savings
Program: Shore Protection and Restoration
Inadequate design criteria for
determining the stability of beach
fills
Inadequate design criteria for
groins, offshore breakwaters, and
other shore protection structures
Inability of existing engineering
formula to predict long-shore sand
transport rates
Developed methods for determining $1,800,000 annually
optimum borrow material, overfill
factors, and berm elevations and
widths for shore slopes, and for
determining feeder beach location
Developed numerical models to $5,000,000 annually
determine shoreline responses to
various coastal structures
Used advanced instrumentation to $3,500,000 annually
provide more accurate estimates of
sand transport rates
Intangible Benefits Realized
Research has provided guidance for evaluating existing beaches in terms of expected storm erosion.
This guidance provides a rational basis for estimating both sand replenishment needs and
quantities. It also permits rapid estimates of storm damage for emergency planning. Better design
of the Grand Isle, Louisiana, hurricane protection dune system could have saved an estimated $2.5
million (one fourth the project cost) of the damages caused by Hurricane Juan in 1985.
Program: Coastal Structure Evaluation and Design
Lack of design criteria for detached
breakwaters
Developed design guidance for
detached breakwaters
Intangible
Lack of economical techniques to
inspect and evaluate the condition
of coastal structures
Developed methodologies for
evaluating coastal structures using
a side-scan sonar
$600,000 annually
Inadequate computational and
design methods for use on coastal
projects
Produced four editions of the Shore
Protection Manual and numerous
technical reports, Coastal
Engineering Technical Notes, and
Microcomputer Applications for
Coastal Engineering to update
engineering guidance and to
improve computations and
consideration of alternate designs
$3,000,000 annually
Determination of internal
structural load-carrying
requirements of concrete floating
breakwaters
Developed improved structural
design criteria
$1,720,000 for two
projects
Determination of stability
coefficients for various types of
breakwater armor
Improved design criteria for
existing armor and established
coefficients for new armor designs
$500,000 annually
Savings of Civil Works Research, 1977-1986 (Continued)
Problems Addressed Solution Savings
Research Area: Flood Control and Navigation
Program: Flood-Control Hydraulics
Inadequate state-of-the-art Developed and disseminated design $1,250,000 annually
hydraulic design guidance and guidance in several formats:
procedures Hydraulic Design Criteria (HDC),
engineer manuals, engineer
technical letters, computer
programs for the computer-aided
design system CORPS, and
miscellaneous papers
Inadequate guidance for Developed guidance concerning the 5% of project cost
designating stable flood-control applicability and limitations of
channels channel improvement methods and
analysis techniques
Inadequate riprap design guidance Developed practical riprap design $300,000 annually
using known or easily calculated
variables. Determined stability of a
wide range of riprap gradations and
thicknesses
Unavailability of a design Developed design guidance for $75,000 annually/
procedure for spillway crests spillway crests including discharge project
applicable to a wide range of heads, coefficients, crest pressures, and
approach depths, and upstream water-surface profiles. Data
slopes provided for crests with and
without piers for a wide range of
conditions
Abrasion at outlet works stilling Developed improved design $150,000 annually
basins caused by low flood eddies guidance which adds inverted “V”
downstream from outlet on
trajectory
Unavailability of necessary data to Incorporated instrumentation $200,000 annually
use prototype testing of hydraulic capabilities in selected Corps
structures to improve design projects to acquire needed data
guidance and to solve operational
problems
Nonexistent hydraulic design Developed a numerical simulation $400,000 annually
guidance for selective withdrawal tool which can be used to determine
intake structures to satisfy flood- optimal number and elevation of
control project objectives in an multilevel intakes
environmentally compatible
manner
Savings of Civil Works Research, 1977-1986 (Continued)
Problems Addressed
Solution
Program: Navigation Hydraulics
No knowledge of the amount of air
to introduce downstream of filling
and emptying valves to prevent
erosion or cavitation of lock
culverts
Inadequate design criteria for locks
Inadequate guidance for bendway
channel width relationships in
inland waterways
Lack of simulation techniques to
aid in the design of deep- and
shallow-draft waterways and
harbors
Developed design guidance for lock
culvert valve ventilation system
Developed design criteria which
eliminated the necessity of
modeling each low-lift lock
Developed specific design guidance
for channel width with varying
velocity, bend radius, distance
between banks, and tow size
Developed a ship-tow simulator to
provide guidance for the
determination of channel and
harbor dimensions for deep- and
shallow-draft navigation projects
including elimination of existing
hazards to navigation
Program: Hydrology of Cold Regions
Inadequate guidance on sediment
transport and bank erosion
processes in cold regions
Inadequate guidance on the effects
of permafrost on bank erosion
Inadequate guidance on the nature
of glacierized river basins
Inadequate instrumentation for
monitoring snow water equivalent
soil moisture and winter flows
I
Inadequate computer models for
; predicting runoff and routing for
> cold regions
Provided guidance and assistance
on sediment transport and bank
erosion to Alaska District for groin
placement for flood prevention
Provided guidance and assistance
on the effects of permafrost or
frozen ground on bank erosion to
Alaska, St. Paul, and Rock Island
Districts
Provided guidance on nature of
glacierized river basins to Alaska
District
Provided guidance and assistance
on methodology or techniques for
winter measurements and
observations to various Districts
and Divisions
Improved Corps model capabilities
by modifying run-and-routing
forecast models to account for cold
regions effects
Savings
$25,000 annually
$220,000 annually
$3,700,000 annually
$4,000,000 annually
$250,000 annually
$300,000 annually
$75,000 annually
$300,000 annually
$200,000 annually
Savings of Civil Works Research, 1977-1986 (Continued)
Problems Addressed Solution Savings
Program: Ice Engineering
Floating brash ice entering lock
chambers
Uplifting ice forces acting on
marine structures
Developed a high flow air bubbler $75,000 annually/
system to deflect floating ice out of lock
the lock approach
Developed a plastic jacket which $50,000 annually
effectively reduces uplifting forces
Downstream ice jam flooding
resulting from rapid, peak power
water releases
Installed bubbler system to move $75,000 annually
warm water to intakes to decrease
the formation of ice
Inadequate ice boom design and Developed design guidance for
performance improving ice boom designs
$4,403,000 annually
at seven sites where
ice booms have been
installed
Research Area: Environmental Quality
Program: Environmental Impact
Effects of beach nourishment on
shore-zone animals
Compaction caused by beach
nourishment
Inadequate guidance for
revegetating construction sites
Inadequate management for
wildlife resources
Developed assessment strategies
and field study procedures
Demonstrated effectiveness of
tilling to reduce compaction
Prepared and demonstrated
procedures for improving planting
techniques
Prepared manual of improved
management techniques
$300,000 annually
$250,000/project
$2,500,000
$30,000 annually
Intangible Benefits Realized
Intangible benefits include reduced costs for preparing impact assessments and for monitoring
projects, improved project operation, and enhanced realization of project benefits.
Program: Wetlands
Inadequate preliminary guidance to Produced eight preliminary $300,000 annually
Corps field inspectors on wetland regional guides that describe
types in their region wetland types and dominant
species in each
Inadequate procedures for
identifying and delineating
wetlands subject to Section 404 of
the Clean Water Act
Developed multiparameter $800,000 annually
approach, providing a method for
achieving standardized wetland
determinations throughout the
nation. Documented the approach
in a “Wetlands Delineation Manual”
Unavailability of a standard Adopted, modified, improved, and $2,000,000 annually
procedure for assessing wetlands computerized a method developed
functions and values by the Federal Highway
Administration
Savings of Civil Works Research, 1977-1986 (Continued)
Problems Addressed
Solution
Savings
Program: Wetlands
Unavailability of a wetlands
functions and values database
Cooperated with US Fish and
Wildlife Service in developing a
wetlands functions and values
database. The database contains
more than 5,000 technical articles
$1,100,000 annually
Research Area: Water Resources Planning Studies
Program: Planning Methodologies
Unavailability of methods to
identify regional economic impact
of water resources projects
Lack of techniques which
incorporate nonstructural measures
into the flood mitigation planning
process
Lack of methods for assessing
employment opportunities
associated with the construction of
Civil Works projects
Unavailability of procedures and
models for assessing the benefits of
including recreation facilities at
Corps projects
Developed regional economic
assessment computer models for
navigation planning studies
Developed nonstructural
alternatives to traditional flood-
control methods
Developed procedures for
measuring employment
opportunities for Corps
construction projects
Prepared a manual for evaluating
recreation opportunities at Corps
projects
$5,000,000
$9,500,000
$15,000,000
$8,600,000
Intangible Benefits Realized
Intangible benefits include integration of social considerations into the planning process as
required by law and regulation, and reduced adverse social consequences of construction activity.
Program: Analytical Techniques
Lack of documented flood
emergency planning methods for
Federal and non-Federal dam
safety
Lack of automation for flooding,
flood routing, hydrologic,
hydrodynamic, reservoir operation,
and other flood damage reduction
measures
Developed guidance for preparing
flood emergency plans for
evacuation of downstream
communities
Developed over 70 computer
programs to respond to various
water resources related inquiries
and emergencies
Intangible—mostly
increased capabilities
to respond to
emergency operations
Intangible
Intangible Benefits Realized
Intangible benefits include provision of more efficient use of manpower and computational
resources, and provision of improved, more economical, and faster analyses.
Savings of Civil Works Research, 1977-1986 (Continued)
Problems Addressed Solution Savings
Program: Water Supply and Conservation
Lack of evaluation techniques and Developed procedures manuals, $2,800,000
procedures to enable Corps handbooks, and technical reports
planners to incorporate water on drought management measures;
conservation features into water determined the effect of price on
supply planning, engineering, and water demand; and determined the
design long-term effects of conservation
measures. All of these are now used
by the Corps and others involved in
water supply and conservation
planning
Lack of a modern disaggregated Developed a state-of-the-art water $3,600,000
water demand forecasting model to demand forecasting model, IWR-
provide accurate estimates of future MAIN, and adapted model to
water supply needs provide the Corps with the
capability to make accurate water
needs assessments. A mainframe
and personal computer version of
the model are available
Lack of methods and models to plan Developed ground-water models $1,700,000
and design water supply systems and conjunctive use planning
incorporating ground-water models framework which describe the
and conjunctive use measures economic and institutional aspects
of surface—ground-water systems
Lack of technical and cost Developed and adapted models $2,800,000
optimization tools for water supply which allow planners to determine
system planning maintenance and least cost alternative water system
rehabilitation design and to stage the
development of water supply
systems
Intangible Benefits Realized
Intangible benefits include manpower savings from computational efficiencies and savings to the
nation in the form of reduced resource requirements to meet the water demand of the future.
Program: Risk Analysis
Lack of risk analysis methods for Made available the specific $100,000/application
dam spillways consistent with analytical techniques, models, and
current policy on retrofit of reports of case studies to Corps
hydrologically deficient dams personnel engaged in rehabilitation
problems
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Problems Addressed
Solution
Savings
Research Area: Surveying and Satellite Applications
Program: Surveying and Mapping
Unavailability of effective and
efficient hydrographic surveying
methods
Developed cost-effective and
efficient hydrographic surveying
methods
$12,000,000
Unavailability of highly accurate
topographic surveying methods
Developed airborne laser
topographic surveying method; the
global positioning system has been
tested and has proved feasible for
various surveying applications
$1,500,000 annually
Program: Remote Sensing
Unavailability of techniques for
using satellite data to prepare land
cover maps
Developed techniques for preparing
land cover maps using Landsat
multispectral scanner data
$20,000/application
Unavailability of instrumentation
for making real time water
resources management decisions
Developed and tested sensors to
obtain hydrometeorological data in
near real time
$1,000,000 annually
Inability to monitor economically
shoreline erosion resulting for
reservoir and locks and dams
operation
Developed conventional photo¬
interpretation and digital image
processing techniques to monitor
shoreline recession rates
$500,000 annually
Lack of snowmelt runoff data
Developed procedures for using
airborne and satellite
instrumentation to obtain spatially
distributed snow, rainfall, and soil
moisture data
$1,000,000 annually
Inability to economically monitor
deep-draft channels and deepwater
dredged material disposal areas
Implemented multiple electronic
positioning and hydrographic
survey systems to measure channel
geometries and to ensure accurate
placement of dredged material
$1,000,000 annually
Inability to define accurately the
extent of flooding during
emergency operations
Developed techniques for using
National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration satellite imagery
instead of using conventional data
collection for producing flood
location maps
$50,000 annually
Research Area: Construction, Operation, and Maintenance
Program: Operation and Maintenance Management
$45,000/application
Lack of reliable means of providing
accurate cost estimates
Developed a computer program for
updating and tracking estimates in
process
16
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Part III
RESEARCH AREAS AND PROGRAMS
This section presents a more detailed view of the type and diversity of the
Corps of Engineers’ Civil Works research activities and accomplishments. It will
not only elaborate on the work and benefits presented in the preceding section but
will also summarize recent accomplishments of each Program without regard to
evaluation of its economic significance.
Materials
Soils
Based on Civil Works R&D, assistance related to problems encountered with
dispersive clay, granular and geotextile filters, earth-rock mixtures, cracking of
embankments, instrumentation, compaction control, planning and conducting
seismic stability analyses of dams, design of embankments for overtopping, in
situ testing, and pile foundations was provided to various offices. Significant
accomplishments were:
1. Methods for obtaining maximum/minimum density of large-particle soils
using 18- and 36-in. molds were developed.
2. A theoretical model for shear band formation was formulated and
validated.
3. A small-scale test apparatus was designed and fabricated for measuring the
performance by similitude of in situ testing devices (one-fourth and one-half
scale); a contract report, “Field Evaluation of SPT Energy, Equipment, and
Methods in Japan Compared with the SPT in the United States,” concluded
a cooperative study with the US Bureau of Standards.
4. Under cooperative support by the Corps and others, the National Academy
of Science Committee on Earthquake Engineering prepared a workshop
report, “Liquefaction of Soils During Earthquakes,” to be used as a primary
reference for forthcoming regional seminars, “Hazard at Saturated Soil
Sites: Evaluation and Mitigation.”
Rock
This research encompasses interdisciplinary efforts involving geology,
seismology, geophysics, rock mechanics, and foundation and structural
engineering. The design and the economical and safe construction of major Corps
structures, and the assessment of existing Corps structures for structural
integrity are dependent upon a thorough knowledge of the before-mentioned
disciplines. Such considerations necessitate methodologies for designing
structures for local flood protection and floodplain management, waste treatment
facilities, flood control, and navigation.
Through research, improved and standardized methodologies have been and
continue to be developed for the field agencies. Assistance provided for the Fort
Peck Dam, Dickey-Lincoln School, Richard B. Russell Dam, Barkley Dam, Ririe
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contributed significantly to the successful construction of Corps projects.
Concrete
Concrete research primarily focuses on the development and evaluation of new
technologies for making, placing, and testing concrete and includes: (1)
evaluation of various types of concretes containing numerous admixtures
following exposure to severe ambient conditions at mean-tide level at Treat
Island, Maine; (2) evaluation of cracking phenomenon of massive concrete
structures and establishing standards and construction practices which should
minimize such occurrences; (3) evaluation of various cementitious materials other
than portland cement so that acceptable specifications can be established for
their use; (4) evaluation of the alkali-silica reaction potential of various
aggregates which were previously considered nonreactive; (5) evaluation of
current specifications for curing compounds to determine if the stricter Corps of
Engineers requirements are necessary and economically acceptable; and (6)
evaluation of a high-resolution acoustic mapping system for assessing underwater
structures without dewatering the projects.
Usable products generated as a direct result of this program have been many
and varied. A partial listing of recent significant accomplishments includes: (1)
revision of the Handbook for Concrete and Cement ; (2) evaluation of high-range
water-reducing admixtures for concrete construction; (3) evaluation of the Rapid
Analysis Machine (RAM) for rapidly determining cement content of freshly
mixed concrete; (4) evaluation of roller-compacted concrete testing and
construction techniques; (5) evaluation of techniques and materials currently
Cracking of concrete structures.
being used in the repair and rehabilitation of erosion-damaged structures; and (6)
the continuing evaluation of alkali-silica reactions with certain types of
aggregates.
Structural engineering
This program has produced many results which have been quickly put to
practical application by District and Division Offices. Foremost among these
products is a growing collection of user-friendly computer programs to analyze or
design common types of hydraulic structures. Other notable achievements are
simple procedures for seismic analysis which incorporate the effects of the most
significant dynamic variables. Interim strength design criteria suitable for the
peculiar problems of Corps hydraulic structures have also been developed under
this program.
Lock and Dam 26 (replacement) design of cellular cofferdam, group pile
foundation, and tainter gates. Three-dimensional stability analysis
done using Computer-Aided Structural Engineering techniques.
The Computer-Aided Structural Engineering projects have generated over 39
computer programs for field use. The Soil-Structures Interaction Studies program
has provided guidance for developing analytical and testing procedures for the
design and analysis of hydraulic structures. Products from this work have
resulted in four computer programs being released to the field.
Electrical/mechanical
This program provides improved design guidance for small hydraulic
pumping station pumps, for paints and other high-performance protective
coatings, and for mitigating the effects of corrosion at all Corps projects. Results
from small pumping station research have been utilized by the Huntington, St.
Louis, ami Memphis Districts. The Department of the Army has signed an
exclusive licensing agreement with an Ohio firm to manufacture and market the
Corps-developed, plasma-sprayed ceramic anode which has proven to be less
expensive and has a longer economic life than the solid niobium or tantalum
anodes currently used.
Coastal Engineering
Coastal flooding and storm protection
Research from this program includes theoretical and numerical studies,
experimental laboratory and field investigations, and prototype data collection
and analysis. This program has developed complex numerical models that predict
water-level rises caused by hurricanes and other large storms, models that
transmit storm surge from the open ocean through inlets into back bays, models
that estimate the transformation of waves in shallow water, comprehensive data
sets from the Field Research Facility and Hurricane Surge Data collection
network, and improved laboratory simulation techniques.
Recent significant accomplishments include:
1. The spectral wave generator was completed and is now in operation.
2. With numerous participants from the academic community and foreign
countries, experiments designed to measure nearshore coastal processes
such as currents and sediment transport were conducted at the Field
Research Facility in North Carolina in 1985 and 1986 including wave,
current, and water-level measurements during Hurricane Gloria.
The directional spectral wave generator is now in operational use for both research and
mission support studies.
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WAVE HEIGHT AND PERIOD
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Wave, current, and water-level
measurement programs yielded a
wealth of data including invaluable
data during the passage of Hurricane
Gloria.
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3. For the first time, quantitative, time-dependent simulations of the hurricane
forerunner can now be performed, and results of simulations for historical
storms can be used to initialize regional storm surge models. Hurricane
surge data were collected during several storms and a numerical model for
computing hurricane waves developed.
Harbor entrances and coastal channels
This research includes theoretical and numerical studies, experimental
laboratory and field investigations, and prototype data collection analysis.
Currently, the majority of emphasis and resources is placed on theoretical and
numerical investigations and data collection and analysis.
Shoaling of inlet bars is a continuing problem in the Corps’ effort to maintain
adequate navigation depths, and a better understanding of the physical processes
responsible for this shoaling is basic to developing design criteria aimed at
reducing costs of project maintenance. Literature on inlet shoaling rates and
patterns and on techniques for predicting shoaling rates was evaluated. An in-
depth report on the state of the art was prepared. Field data were collected at the
Field Research Facility on sediment transport outside the breaker zone. No
comprehensive source of information or guidance is available which describes
planning and selection procedures for sand bypassing systems. Such systems,
used to pass sand across tidal inlets or harbor entrances, rely primarily on
intensive project development. Work on compiling a systematic approach to the
design and selection of sand bypassing systems will reduce project costs
Removal of sand from harbor entrance channels remains a significant Corps problem.
Guidance for development of sand bypassing systems is being readied for publication to
provide the field with state-of-the-art methods to solve this problem.
Interaction of waves, currents, sediment, and structures at coastal entrance channels
produces complex shoaling and scour problems, and dangerous navigation problems.
Research is under way to develop a numerical model to predict wave and current
patterns in these complex systems.
considerably. Initial steps in the work were completed, including a methodology
for characterizing the problem, a description of the basic concepts of sand
bypassing systems, and definition of data and data analysis requirements. Wave-
current interactions at entrances to tidal inlets and harbors can produce
dangerous conditions for both small crafts and ships attempting to navigate
through these entrances. Wave-current interactions have a major influence on
sedimentation in entrance channels and adjacent coastal areas. Development of a
large grid mesh numerical model to study wave-current interactions is under way.
A complementary two-dimensional numerical model for wave propagation at
entrances was completed and a user’s manual prepared. A comprehensive
knowledge of the nearshore waves and currents in the vicinity of harbor
entrances and coastal channels is basic to developing improved guidance to
minimize channel shoaling. The lack of reliable and quantitative methods for the
prediction of nearshore waves and currents was partially alleviated by
completion of a literature review and state-of-the-art report on nearshore currents.
Results of this report were used to develop a preliminary numerical model for
prediction of nearshore waves and currents. This technology was transferred to
field personnel by means of a workshop. An extensive field experiment was held
at the Field Research Facility in conjunction with investigators from the US
Geological Survey and Oregon State University to collect quantitative current
and wind stress data, which will be compared with model predictions.
Shore protection and restoration
This research includes theoretical and numerical studies, experimental
laboratory and field investigations, and prototype data collection and analysis.
Currently, there is a balance of research with slightly more emphasis being
placed on experimental field investigations and data collection and analysis.
A set of 16 historical (since 1850) shoreline change maps for the Delmarva
Peninsula of Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia was published under a
cooperative agreement with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminis¬
tration, National Ocean Survey. A major field collection effort involving surface
and subsurface sediment samples and bottom profiling was conducted at Ocean
City/Assateague, Maryland, to study barrier island evolution in the presence of
navigation structures. Historical shoreline change analyses were also conducted.
A field study of sediment transport characteristics and the geomorphic history of
Research on barrier island systems continues with development of shoreline change
maps, collection of geologic data, and analysis of barrier island response to structures.
Isles Dernieres, Louisiana, was conducted. The engineering implications of sea
level rise were investigated through participation with the Marine Board,
National Research Council.
A report was published documenting a wave propagation model that
determines combined refraction-diffraction of waves over a complex bathymetry.
The model was transferred to District offices through a workshop and was used in
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WAVE DIRECTION
A refraction-diffraction model is required to make accurate
estimates of wave conditions in complex beach areas. This
model has been transferred to District offices for use.
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model. The accuracy with which real events can be reproduced in the model provides
information on the scaling laws and techniques used.
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several District studies. A shoreline response numerical model developed in
Japan was tested and its capabilities expanded by adding the ability to consider
sea walls. Postfill conditions at Delray, Florida, were monitored to assess whether
compaction contributes to apparent losses of fill material. A user’s manual for the
Interactive Survey Reduction Program and a report describing use of a Dutch
technique for estimating dune erosion were published. Technical reports were
completed on sand transport distribution over weir jetties, statistics of energy
flux, and visual wave observations.
Research continues in the development of improved methods to model
sediment transport in the laboratory. Extensive data sets collected at the Field
Research Facility are being used to verify a movable-bed model. Development of
this technology will allow more accurate prediction of many problems involving
shoaling or scour and erosion.
Coastal structure evaluation and design
This research includes experimental laboratory and field investigations and
prototype project performance monitoring. This research program provides the
funding for some of the major technology transfer mechanisms in the entire
Coastal Engineering area.
Nine microcomputer programs were completed for Microcomputer Applications
for Coastal Engineering. Documentation was published in a technical report and
in Coastal Engineering Technical Notes (CETNs). Contracts were initiated for
assistance in preparing Microcomputer Applications for Coastal Engineering,
and three people were employed under Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA)
appointments. A total of 18 CETNs were published. A technical report, “Cost
Effective Optimization of Rubble-Mound Breakwater Cross Sections,” was
29
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Design formulae and simpler methods have been incorporated into a
series of microcomputer programs that are distributed to District offices.
Not only do these programs decrease man-hours required to complete
designs, the results are also more accurate because nomograms are
replaced with explicit equations.
completed. Work continued on two instruction reports. These instruction reports
are more detailed than other reports and can stand alone as authoritative texts on
their subjects. An improved method was developed to calculate overtopping rates
for naturally occurring storm wave conditions. A draft technical report, “Review
and Comparison of Methods for Estimating Irregular Wave Overtopping Rates,”
was prepared. A final draft of the engineer manual, “Design of Breakwaters and
Jetties,” was prepared. Tests were completed and a draft report was prepared on
percent damage and wave transmission heights for dolosse and stone-armored
breakwater trunks using waves greater than the design wave height. Trunk tests
continued on breakwater heads and angular wave attack on breakwater trunks,
and tests were initiated using spectral waves. A simple relation for defining
initiation of armor stone movement of overtopped rubble mound structures was
developed. Comprehensive models were developed for reef breakwaters to predict
stability, wave transmission, wave reflection, and energy dissipation, and a draft
technical report was prepared. Tests were initiated for riprap stability using a
minimum layer thickness on 1:1.5 slopes. The Floating Tire Breakwater
Workshop was held at Niagara Falls, New York. A draft report on the Floating
Breakwater Prototype Test Program was completed, and a draft engineer
technical letter was prepared. Data analysis continued and the comparison,
verification, and calibration of existing numerical models was initiated. A
floating tire breakwater monitoring effort was performed at Pickering Beach,
Floating breakwaters can offer cost-effective wave protection in areas with short-
period waves. Detailed information gathered during the Corps’ major field data
collection effort is now being used to provide design guidance and to verify models of the
structures.
Delaware. Draft reports were prepared on design of detached breakwaters for
shore protection and comparisons of coastal survey techniques. Cooperative
monitoring and evaluation continued on detached breakwaters at Lakeview Park
and Lakeshore Park, Ohio, and Colonial Beach, Virginia, and on jetties at
Murrells Inlet and Little River Inlet, South Carolina. Research continued on the
application of airborne laser mapping techniques, and a report was prepared on
an application of side-scan sonar technology.
Flood Control and Navigation
Flood-control hydraulics
This research program develops and disseminates timely guidance for solution
of priority mission problems in the area of flood control. Currently, the field
indicates a high-priority need for research and prototype studies to develop
improved guidance for cost-effective design, construction, rehabilitation,
operation, and maintenance of flood-control channels and structures. This
information and technology is vital to the accomplishment of the overall national
objective of obtaining maximum multipurpose use of our water resources. Recent
accomplishments in this program are summarized below.
A major revision (18th Issue) of Hydraulic Design Criteria has been completed
and is undergoing internal review. The revision includes material related to
spillway design using the approved elliptical shape including crest shape,
discharge coefficients, pier contraction coefficients, water-surface profiles, crest
pressures, and cavitation safety curves. Guidance for design of two-way drop inlet
Computer-aided design procedures for hydraulic structures.
structures and drop intake structures is included along with revisions to several
other Hydraulic Design Criteria charts. Corps computer programs associated
with some of these topics have also been developed and documented. A draft of a
miscellaneous paper comparing four methodologies for riprap design was
completed along with a proposed computer program which will assist with riprap
design. A draft revision of the engineer manual on hydraulic design of navigation
locks has been completed.
Recent projects reflect a major emphasis on small, local-cooperation flood-
control projects. Under this research effort, data pertaining to channel
improvements and stabilization measures for various types of streams
encountered in the Corps of Engineers’ flood protection projects are being
collected. These data are being analyzed, correlated, and used to help develop
technical guidance. Initial work was directed toward developing Hydraulic
Design Criteria providing guidance for making a qualitative analysis, for
defining data requirements for project analysis, and for planning and analyzing
selective clearing and snagging improvement projects. Corps computer programs
to help in predicting flow resistance and river regime have also been developed. A
nationwide inventory of flood-control channel projects was conducted to develop
information which will help define guidance and select projects which may be
analyzed to determine the effectiveness of various channel improvement
methods.
Improved guidance concerning riprap protection is urgently needed to reduce
the high annual maintenance and repair costs experienced by field offices.
Physical model investigations are being used to determine the basic flow
mechanics of controlling parameters. Tests to determine the effects of gradation
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on riprap stability in straight channels have been completed in existing small-
scale facilities, and interim results have been summarized in a draft report and
presented in training courses related to hydraulic design of flood-control
channels. Additional tests in the small-scale facility are investigating riprap
stability in curved channels. However, since larger test facilities are needed to
study riprap at rock sizes more representative of the prototype, a larger riprap test
facility is under construction and will be completed and in operation in the near
future.
In the interim, because of the urgency of the need for improved guidance, other
research avenues are being pursued. Colorado State University completed a third
series of tests addressing the effects of riprap blanket thickness on stability. A
draft technical report has been prepared summarizing the results of the three
series of tests at the University.
A continuing effort is being made to plan for and/or conduct prototype tests
which will provide data and information needed for the development of improved
design and operational guidance. Field testing of some hydraulic phenomena is
required since the phenomena cannot be adequately treated analytically nor can
they be accurately scaled in the laboratory. In these cases, the field data are used
to confirm model or analytical predictions or to provide information which cannot
be otherwise obtained. A continuing review of proposed new structures is made to
identify projects where future tests could provide such data. During FY 85,
prototype tests were conducted at Bay Springs Lock, Mississippi; Bloomington
Dam, Maryland; Chief Joseph Dam, Washington; Garrison Dam, North Dakota;
and St. Stephens Powerhouse, South Carolina. Plans and specifications were
prepared for the Crater Lake, Arkansas, powerhouse tunnel instrumentation and
Prototype tests to confirm performance and to ensure safe operating
conditions for fixed-cone valves at New Melones Dam, California.
35
the Summersville Dam, West Virginia, valve hood modifications. FY 86 tests are
anticipated at Stillhouse Hollow Dam, Texas; Gillham Dam, Arkansas;
Taylorsville Dam, Kentucky; and Warm Springs Dam, California. All of these
tests provide valuable design or operational guidance not otherwise obtainable.
Both flood-control and navigation projects include channel stability and
maintenance in their design. These are related to cross-section shape, channel
alignment, and stream profile slope, but no systematic method exists for
calculating the proper width of channel to convey a prescribed hydrograph of
water/sediment. Work was initiated in FY 84 to provide a systematic way for
establishing channel width. The work involves analysis of various proposed tech¬
niques to determine which one is best supported by field data. Results of this work
will be implemented in Corps of Engineers design procedures for field use and will
significantly improve numerical sediment transport modeling. Techniques have
been identified for evaluation and field data sets accumulated for the tests.
Navigation hydraulics
This program combined research being conducted for navigation locks and
dams and channels to provide improved criteria and procedures for design,
construction, operation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of various types of
navigation locks and channels associated with multipurpose navigation projects.
A channel dimension and alignment study was completed, and results were
included in the “Deep-Draft Channel” engineer manual. Research is continuing
on the effects of bends on deep-draft navigation dimensions; the results are
expected to be available for inclusion in the “Deep-Draft Channel” engineer
Test reach on Hydraulic Design of River Training Structures. Present tests are
concerned with spacing between dikes within a system. Optimum design would be the
maximum spacing providing a satisfactory navigation channel alignment and adequate
depth.
manual this year. The results will include guidance for safe widths on 30-, 45-, and
60-deg bends. Determination of the effects of wind, waves, and currents on
navigation at entrance channels is under way using a new computer simulation
concept. Development of the basic analytical and mathematical models is under
contract. Development of the mathematical model for vertical vessel motion has
been completed, and formulation of the mathematical nodel for horizontal vessel
motion has been completed. A final report and user’s manual on vertical ship
motion were completed in FY 85. The development of the computer code for
horizontal motion will be completed in FY 86.
Work is progressing to develop design criteria which can be used to select the
type of dike needed for particular application to constrict or stabilize the low-
water navigation channel for maximum efficiency and minimum environmental
effect. Such parameters as the most effective dike profile, height, angle, and
spacing in river crossings are being investigated. Base structures studies and
testing to determine the effect of dike height, crest profile, and angle were
accomplished. Investigation of the effect of dike spacing on development of
navigation channel depths in crossings is planned for completion in FY 86. All
findings of the work unit will be included in Chapter 7 of the “Layout and Design
of Shallow-Draft Waterways” engineer manual next year.
Additional research is being conducted to integrate the velocity and current
direction mathematical models, tow maneuvering models, and real time tow
simulation into an overall simulation of pilot, tow, and flow interactions to
supplement and complement the physical modeling effort concluded earlier. This
brings the pilot into the control loop and allows a rational approach to evaluate
the effect of the human element in the determination of safe and efficient shallow-
draft navigation channel design. A video tape describing the simulator and its
applications was prepared and distributed in FY 85. Tug and fender forces
modeling capabilities were added to the simulator to allow the modeling of lock
walls, bridge fenders, and helper boats. Prototype maneuvering tests were
conducted in conjunction with the Coast Guard to refine the coefficients for barge
tows used in the simulator. This model has already produced very realistic results,
increasing our knowledge of ship maneuvering and navigation channel design.
The fully refined tow simulator model will result in considerable cost savings and
improvement of safety of navigation channels for the Corps and its Districts in
the area of navigation channel design.
Research is required to develop criteria to ensure the most economical and
stable channel alignment for both navigation and flood purposes. The RIVERS
’83 conference was held, and the proceedings, containing papers on various
aspects of meandering, were published. Several useful concepts and theories have
been formulated from a review of these proceedings and other technical papers.
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A_ . DISTANCE BETWEEN
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A = AMPLITUDE
X = CROSSING
Planform parameters which affect stable channel alignment.
Tow navigating into the lock approach with a steady-state powerhouse
discharge.
The validity and usefulness of the various theories are being checked by an
analysis of prototype data. Contracts are being let to several universities to aid in
the prototype data analysis, and to look at the theoretical mechanics of flow in
alluvial river and the relationship to channel geometry.
Work is ongoing which addresses the critical need for design guidance in
locating hydropower plants at both existing and proposed Corps projects. A
1:70-scale physical hydraulic model is being used to develop design criteria for
location, orientation, auxiliary structure requirements, and operational procedures
to minimize the effect of hydropower generation on navigation. The testing
facility, including all appurtenances and instrumentation, has been completed. A
three-phase testing procedure will be conducted on each of three selected channel
cross sections. The three-phase testing will determine the maximum safe surge
height from a powerhouse station; the relationship between powerhouse release,
channel cross section, and surge height; and the effect of powerhouse releases on
sediment deposition in the lower lock approach. Maximum safe powerhouse
releases for the first channel size and one powerhouse location were determined in
FY 85. Completion of all phases of testing will be completed in FY 87. A final report
presenting study results and the guidelines derived will be published in FY 88.
Hydrology of cold regions
Cold region hydrology considers those aspects of northern hydrology which
deal with the influence of snow, seasonal and perennial ice, and freezing,
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thawing, and frozen soils upon the spatial and temporal patterns of the
hydrologic cycle.
Present R&D includes:
1. Development of techniques to measure and monitor soil moisture beneath
snow cover and in frozen-unfrozen ground, and to monitor the water
equivalent of the snowpack, river stage, and environmental parameters
such as snow water equivalent.
2. Watershed research in Alaska to quantify the influence of frozen ground
and organic soil covers upon snow and liquid precipitation runoff processes.
3. Development of field procedures and measurement of data on sediment
transport and aggregation and degradation in northern rivers.
4. Development of modeling capabilities for mobile bed rivers.
A radio frequency soil moisture sensor, a soil tensiometer/transducer, and an
improved snow pillow system have been designed and laboratory and field tested
under freezing, thawing, and frozen conditions. Soil moisture, snow water
equivalent, and precipitation data are being incorporated into the SSARR model
using the Sleepers River watershed in northern Vermont. Hydrometeorological
sensors have been interfaced with Landsat and GOES satellites and Meteor Burst
telemetry data relay systems. The following parameters have been received from
the GOES system at 4-hr increments over the past 3 years: soil temperature, soil
tension, snow water equivalent, and wind speed. The snow triangle method to
obtain snow water equivalent data has been placed at two sites in New England.
Sensors to measure river stage under ice cover have been evaluated. These new
data bases provided by the near-real-time capabilities for data collection are
resulting in modifications of existing models and field methods that will
contribute to improved costs savings and benefits on Corps projects. In Alaska,
snowmelt runoff, winter base flow, and water storage in icings are being
measured under different types of ground conditions.
Ice engineering
The Ice Engineering Program addresses four major problem areas:
• Hazardous winter inland navigation.
• Severe winter floods.
• Loss of hydroelectric-generating capacity in the winter.
• Ice damage to shorelines and shore structures, which includes Corps
structures and plant.
The Ice Engineering Facility has proven to be exceptionally valuable for
conducting ice engineering research. Complex natural icing phenomena are
modeled in the laboratory permitting detailed study of ice under controlled
conditions. Such laboratory studies lead to deeper understanding of basic ice
processes, leading in turn to the development of fieldable ice control measures.
A physical model study of Cazenovia Creek was completed in FY 85, and the
model is still being used for ice jam and ice retention studies. Ice engineering
research has produced air screens to keep floating ice out of navigation locks, air
bubblers to minimize ice formation on lock walls, protective devices for
underwater intakes, ice booms to minimize ice jam flooding, and improved design
criteria for structures that must withstand ice forces.
The “Ice Engineering Manual” was completed and published 15 October 1982.
It has had two printings and an appendix added. Currently is it undergoing major
rewrite.
Environmental Quality
Environmental impact
Environmental impact research includes field studies of environmental
effects, evaluations of existing data and information, demonstrations of resource
management and protection techniques, development and verification of
assessment and predictive techniques, development of environmental resource
classification schemes useful in impact assessment, and preparation of field
guidance.
The final product of the work concerned with habitat evaluation methods is a
looseleaf notebook containing information on method selection and application;
model availability, construction, modification, and testing; sampling methods;
software availability; and sources of assistance. In developing methods to
evaluate the impact of changes in estuarine circulation on water quality, test
application of a two-dimensional, laterally averaged model in the Savannah
River estuary was completed and test application of a multiple-box model to the
Mobile Bay/Mississippi Sound area was initiated. A draft of a visual impact
assessment procedure was completed under contract; it was reviewed and field
Environmental monitoring activity at a Corps project.
Habitat quality—a factor in impact assessment.
Erosion processes at reservoir shorelines in cold regions studied in the
New England area.
tested in four Districts. Results of an August 1984 workshop to plan a course of
action to develop an environmental monitoring procedure was compiled into a
report containing a draft plan of study, and this was circulated for review and
comment. To predict erosion potential of shorelines in cold regions, five reports
were prepared during FY 85 on bank erosion measurements and processes. Field
studies of erosion rates and processes continued at three sites.
The study of the effect of channel deepening and jetties on aquatic species
involved publication of five new species profiles, two workshops for Corps
personnel, and initiation of a field study at a small boat harbor in Alaska. Results
achieved in FY 85 in the study of the ecological effects of rubble structures were
similar: publication of a technical note, presentation of research results at a
workshop, and surveys/sampling at two field sites. The work on beach and
Physical and biological effects of commercial navigation activities in
waterways are being assessed.
Rubble jetties usually have beneficial impacts on biological resources.
foredune ecology involved a field study in Florida addressing the problem of
effects of beach nourishment on sea turtles and seven other prenourishment or
postnourishment field studies in Florida, North Carolina, and Washington State.
Technology transfer was also accomplished through workshops and seminars.
A major user’s manual was published providing extensive guidance to the field
on techniques for vegetatively restoring problem soils at Corps construction sites.
An interim manual on wildlife resource management, containing about 70
reports, was completed and submitted for review. Several technical papers were
presented on the work unit and three issues of the information exchange bulletin
were published. To determine techniques for preserving cultural sites, an interim
manual was prepared under contract using results from previous studies by the
contractor, a literature review, and results from an extensive interagency survey
at the Federal and state levels. The manual will be published early in FY 86. Still
another manual was prepared providing guidance on seagrass planting, and in
this subject area, a field study was initiated to investigate fertilizer effects.
Findings to date were reported at a coastal ecology workshop. At CRREL, two
field sites were established to study plant establishment on sandy soils in cold
regions, and field and greenhouse studies were continued to evaluate various
plant species. Review comments were received from field offices on draft
guidelines for revegetating construction sites in cold regions.
Wetlands
This research has identified the need to develop improved and standardized
techniques to (a) assist field personnel in the identification and delineation of
wetlands subject to jurisdiction under the Section 404 regulatory program, (b)
assess and quantify wetland values for use in the evaluation of permit requests,
and (c) meet Corps needs in planning, construction, and operational activities in
wetland areas.
Between FY 78 and FY 82, research on wetlands identification and delineation
was sponsored primarily by Operation and Maintenance General Funds, with
additional funding provided on a case-specific basis by Corps Districts.
Provision of habitat—an important wetland function.
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Vegetation is one indicator used
in wetland delineation.
Soil is another wetland delineation factor.
Research has provided a legally defensible technique for the delineation of
wetlands that has subsequently reduced time that might otherwise be spent in
litigation. This technique, based on field identification of vegetation, soil, and
hydrologic features, improves the efficiency of field inspectors and minimizes
time spent in field determinations. The technique has been documented in a draft
wetlands delineation manual that has been field reviewed and is now being
revised.
Water Resources Planning Studies
Planning methodologies
Activities in this program address problems facing Corps planners in the
performance of their mission. Economic analysis techniques, forecasting, data
use, spatial data management, and water transportation analysis techniques are
emphasized. Products include technical reports, guide manuals, computer
programs, user manuals, and documentation.
Prior accomplishments include the development of three regional impact
computer models and their associated user’s manuals applicable to navigation
projects. An industrial location/community attribute computer model with
associated user’s manuals is operational and is available for use. A survey of
construction workers has been completed and procedures for estimating
employment benefits have been developed and disseminated to the field.
Work also includes development of techniques for estimating external
economies at Corps projects, development of a “National Economic Development
Evaluation Manual” for recreation, and development of a manual for deep-draft
navigation. An evaluation of the commercial and industrial flood damage
assessment procedures has been completed. The economic procedures for
floodplain evacuation and relocation have been developed. A questionnaire and
test of the contingent valuation technique and user manual were developed.
Additionally, a needs assessment for a forecasting system package was
performed, and a framework for constructing a forecasting system was developed.
A small area forecasting model is operational. A land use analysis model using
spatial data is operational. Methods for assessing the expected cumulative
environmental impacts associated with induced development have been
formulated. Spatial data management software and analysis models have been
developed and applied in planning studies. Spatial data bank creation and
management software have been tested and documented. A triangular terrain-
based data capture system has been implemented.
Analytical techniques
The improvement of basic methods of evaluating hydrologic phenomena and
analytical techniques in the planning process is the objective of this research
program. Continual improvements are being made in the basic techniques as
required by the field office projects. Evaluation of today’s many alternatives
demands accurate and efficient procedures capable of processing large amounts
of data. Effective utilization of the computer makes it possible to assemble, store,
retrieve, and analyze the data required for these hydrologic and planning
analyses.
Analytical planning techniques are being developed to relate hydrologic,
economic, and environmental parameters directly to geographic data such as
land use. Such techniques provide a continuing medium for use by Corps and
local planners and engineers to analyze the impact of management measures.
The energy problem is being addressed through new and improved techniques for
sizing hydropower plants, allocation of reservoir storage to competing demands,
and operation of reservoir systems to best meet multiple objectives. Hydrologic
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and hydraulic analysis techniques are being developed to assess dam safety and
develop dam failure evacuation plans for those dams which are a threat to life
and property.
Water supply and conservation
With the development of the water conservation procedures manual came new
requirements for application handbooks and better forecasting procedures. Three
publications were produced relating directly to the manual: an annotated
bibliography with specific references to the steps of the manual, an assessment of
forecasting techniques, and a bibliography on forecasting techniques. A
computer-based set of forecasting techniques was chosen for use by Corps
planners and installed on the Corps’ central computer library. The model, known
as IWR-MAIN, will become the Corps’ standardized procedure for forecasting
water demands. To aid planners in producing better water supply forecasts, two
publications were completed:
• A handbook of methods detailing how to obtain acceptable forecasts under
varying data conditions.
• An interactive user’s guide and manual for IWR-MAIN.
To further aid in evaluating the benefits of water conservation and to ensure
that water is available during drought conditions, three new reports were
published and distributed to the field:
• A study describing the influence of price and rate structure on future water
demands.
• An evaluation of drought management measures for municipal and
industrial water supply.
• A prototype application of the drought management optimization procedure.
A handbook demonstrating how to apply the procedure described in the
water conservation evaluation manual was completed. The IWR-MAIN
system was converted to run on an IBM-PC.
Major products through FY 86 include, “Guide Manual for Preparing Water
Balances,” “Survey of Conjunctive Use,” “Comparative Analysis of Groundwater
Formulations,” and “Water Supply Simulations Using HEC-5.”
Another significant activity centered on developing the MAPS program to
provide the capability of evaluating water supply source alternatives with cost
modules. A water conservation subroutine has been added, and the program was
modified to improve a number of existing applications. Cost-estimating routines
have been verified against actual construction costs. An engineer manual on
planning and designing small water systems was completed. A method for
estimating the costs of surface water intakes was developed. Techniques for
determining when to repair or replace pipes were identified and evaluated and an
engineering technical letter prepared. Work was completed on development of an
algorithm for estimating water reductions resulting from implementing water
conservation measures.
Risk analysis
This is a new study, initiated in FY 85, for which relatively little formal
research had been conducted, other than the initiation of a literature survey. This
survey was part of an inquiry designed to provide guidance and workable risk
analysis methods in evaluating dam safety problems in a manner compatible
with sound engineering practices and risk-cost evaluation principles.
_ Surveying and Satellite Applications _
Surveying and mapping
This program includes work for improving land, hydrographic, and airborne
surveying and mapping capabilities within the Corps of Engineers. Most of this
work is performed in the coastal regions and navigable waterways of the nation.
In the coastal zone, survey data are required in the beach, nearshore, and
offshore areas. Coastal surveys are costly, time-consuming, frequently difficult or
impossible to obtain, and often lack sufficient accuracy in the surf and nearshore
zones for many coastal engineering applications. Therefore, a significant need
exists for alternative means of obtaining coastal survey data that accurately
handle the entire profile, are rapid and inexpensive, and that utilize a datum
other than the water surface. The estimated annual hydrographic surveying and
mapping workload of the Corps is approximately $41 million. The cost of
surveying is one of the major expenditures in any coastal project or monitoring
program.
Hydrographic surveys are routinely performed along the nation’s waterways
in order to compute the volume of material removed by dredging contractors. This
volume is then used as a basis for payment to the contractor. The computational
method used is the average-end-area method, or some adaptation of this
technique. Quite often the data collection procedures do not coincide properly with
the computational method. The objective of this work is to develop the best
method for determining the volume of material removed by channel dredging.
Efforts are also continuing to monitor technological advances in hydrographic
surveying for possible adaptation to Corps needs. Recent emphasis includes
preparation of a report on available methods for heave correction and
development of a fully automated small boat survey system.
Remote sensing
There has been a tremendous advance in the state of the art in the remote
sensing field over the past 10 years. Many of the sensor systems that have been or
are being designed measure terrain and hydrologic and environmental conditions
more accurately. With trends of ever decreasing funds and manpower, remote
sensing technology probably provides the only opportunity of managing and
analyzing the nation’s water resources.
The Atlantic Remote Sensing Land-Ocean Experiment (ARSLOE) was
successfully completed. This field experiment developed a data base for
comparing remote sensing techniques versus in situ measurements. The
preliminary results of the Remote Orbital Wave Spectrometer (ROWS) demon¬
strated the detection of surface currents. The High Frequency Radar (CODAR)
demonstrated potential for gathering two-dimensional wave spectra and current
vector data. (This field experiment involved over 30 organizations for 2 months of
coincident remote sensing and in situ systems wave data. The evaluation of 58
aircraft missions of four ground-based radar systems was accomplished.) Several
papers were presented at the OCEANS ’82 Conference on ground truth
experiments during the ARSLOE experiment.
Data were analyzed from an experiment at the Corps’ Field Research Facility
with a coherent wave radar to test the feasibility of measuring surface currents in
the surf zone. Coastal Engineering Technical Notes were written on surface
current measurement using a microwave scattermeter and on sensor selection for
wave data.
In FY 84-85, a successful field demonstration of the CODAR surface current
mapping capability was conducted on the Delaware Bay in a joint experiment
with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Ocean
Survey. A workshop on radar detection of waves was presented for District
personnel. A CODAR field test for wave measurement was conducted at the Field
Research Facility.
A literature review of state-of-the-art in situ measurement techniques for
hydrologic and environmental monitoring was prepared, and a subsequent report
was completed. A sensor package complete with interfaces for measurement of
wind speed and direction, solar radiation, air temperature, barometric pressure,
relative humidity, soil moisture, precipitation, and snow water equivalent was
developed and installed at sites in the New England Division and the Detroit
District.
Construction, Operation, and Maintenance
Operation and maintenance management
This program supports command goals to provide modern, integrated,
automated office systems to a diminishing workforce, thereby improving
productivity and efficiency. The Corps-developed automated budget system,
EDITOR, was installed at over 30 Districts for use in the FY 86 budget
preparation.
Energy
This program was initiated in FY 83 with an ongoing study of techniques to
reduce petroleum energy consumption in Civil Works operations. To date, the
Civil Works petroleum-consuming activities have been identified by mission area
and the present level of consumption determined. Overall, petroleum consumption
accounts for about 90 percent of Civil Works energy consumption. A survey of
potential alternate fuels was completed, and candidate alternate fuels were
identified for Civil Works activities where feasible. A report describing these
alternate fuels and usage considerations was written in FY 84. A further study of
these fuels as applied to large, medium-speed diesel engines, such as used by
Corps floating plant, was completed by the Army Fuels and Lubricants Research
Laboratory. Initial steps were taken to begin an alternate fuels usage
demonstration. A report was also written in FY 84 outlining energy conservation
technologies applicable to Corps dredges. The Civil Works Energy Data System is
intended to provide District engineers with a microcomputer-based tool to
manage energy consumption at the District level. Software has been written to
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manipulate project and District level energy consumption data and to facilitate
Defense Energy Information System (DEIS) input. Application of alternate
energy technologies to Civil Works processes and facilities was initiated in mid-
FY 84. The goal of this work is to reduce energy consumption of nonpetroleum¬
consuming Civil Works activities through the use of alternative energy
technologies.
Improvement of operation and maintenance techniques
The magnitude and complexity of the Civil Works O&M activities which now
exceed $1 billion annually demand that the program be managed with maximum
efficiency. To reduce the annual O&M fund requirements, it is imperative that
positive action be taken to effect maximum economy with minimum use of energy
in all activities. These objectives can be attained only if rigorous and direct
research and development effort is continued in several critical fields of activity
using state-of-the-art scientific and engineering knowledge to develop systems,
techniques, and improvements to ensure maximization of operational and
maintenance efficiences. There are several areas associated with present
operation and maintenance activities where efforts are being made to develop and
adapt new operational techniques to effect significant savings in the program.
Approximately one third of the annual O&M activities are in dredging of material
deposited in navigation channels and harbors and 40 percent is for all dredging
activities. Any methods to prevent or reduce the shoaling have the potential for
significantly reducing the cost of dredging. A need exists for inexpensive
evaluation procedures for projects where relatively small amounts of O&M funds
are involved. Large O&M projects can be reduced in cost through the use of more
elaborate procedures to evaluate alternatives accurately.
The availability of definitive impacts of structural alternatives can be used to
reduce maintenance dredging. Improvements and increased knowledge can be
used to decrease dredging requirements. An improved understanding of alter¬
natives for dredging will allow the most cost-efficient approach to be chosen.
Environmental concerns can be addressed with new equipment, new techniques,
and an understanding of the behavior of existing dredging systems. Improvements
to dredging systems can have a direct impact on reducing dredging costs. Several
areas of O&M activities can be reduced in cost through a better understanding of
present procedures and development of new procedures and equipment.
Laboratory testing of high density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe was completed,
and field testing on a dredge was initiated. A 30-in. HDPE pipe was installed on
the Port of Astoria’s dredge OREGON where it will be subjected to a season of
sand pumping. A draft engineer technical letter on the use of HDPE was
completed and sent forward for review. Several Environmental Effects of
Dredging Program Technical Notes were prepared documenting both laboratory¬
testing procedures for predicting potential contaminant release during dredging
and methods for dredging contaminated sediments. Prior evaluation of resuspen¬
sion by hopper dredges was extended by use of data from a recently completed
Japanese study. A classification system for rating dredges according to their
ability to dredge contaminated sediments with the least environmental impact
was completed. A third volume of an annotated dredging bibliography was
published.
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Hand-held ultrasonic wall thickness gage measures the wear of HDPE
pipe.
Field and laboratory tests of fine sediments have revealed important
information concerning the way that these materials form shoals. Research
results have been successfully applied to site-specific studies of shoaling in
Corpus Christi Harbor and open water dredged material disposal in San
Francisco Bay. New expressions for settling and consolidation of sediments were
developed for implementation in the TABS-2 and TABS-3 numerical modeling
systems. Research into new techniques to measure in situ density of bed
sediments resulted in creation of a new work unit to complete that research. Work
began on evaluating resuspension of fine sediments under waves. Material was
supplied for a new engineer manual on sedimentation. Past work in advance
maintenance dredging has resulted in several technical reports and other
technology transfer, including an engineer technical letter (ETL 1110-2-293,
“Shoaling Predictions in Offshore Navigation Channels, Analytic and Empirical
Methods”). Two additional draft engineer technical letters and a technical report
on advance maintenance were completed in FY 85. TABS-2, a complete system of
numerical models for two-dimensional numerical modeling of navigation channel
flows and sedimentation, has been developed and released to the Corps offices.
This system, which includes a 700-page user’s manual, has been enthusiastically
received by the field offices and is already in use at five locations in addition to
WES. It has already been applied to nearly two dozen sites. Telephone support to
non-WES users was provided on a continuing basis. Two Huntsville Training
Division courses were conducted on the system’s use. A set of three-dimensional
numerical models was developed and successfully applied to New York Harbor for
the New York District. A survey of existing estuarine training structures was
completed and results were compiled for analysis. A draft engineer technical
letter on present use of training structures was prepared.
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Long-term effects of dredging operations
The Corps is legislatively required to evaluate and minimize the environmental
impacts of dredged material disposal and/or placement of fill that are associated
with the Corps’ dredging and environmental regulatory programs. Dredging
operations to maintain the nation’s approximately 25,000 miles of Federal
channels, over 100 commercial harbors, and over 400 small boat harbors comprise
the largest single line item in the total Corps budget and account for
approximately 39 percent of the general budget. (The Corps’ dredging mission
requires the annual disposal of 250 to 300 million cubic yards of dredged
material.)
Research conducted during the Dredged Material Research Program and the
Dredging Operations and Technical Support Program has established that the
mere presence of a contaminant in a sediment c oes not indicate that environ¬
mental harm to the aquatic system will result from dredging and aquatic disposal
of the sediment. Therefore, chemical analysis or inventory of sediments cannot be
used as a basis for predicting potential impacts but can only indicate the presence
of potentially harmful contaminants. First-generation methods have been
developed to provide the field with reliable indicators of potential harm.
Consequently, first-generation biological testing procedures were developed to
identify and to assess the environmental impacts. These evaluative procedures
were based on limited laboratory and field data; consequently, the accuracy of the
procedures with regard to actual field conditions/effects must be more definitively
Laboratory bioassay test of effectiveness of capping contaminated
dredged material.
established. Because different data interpretations exist among the various
environmental resource and regulatory agencies (e.g., Corps of Engineers, Fish
and Wildlife Service, Environmental Protection Agency, National Marine
Fisheries Service, and state agencies), no single technical procedure is acceptable
to all regulatory agencies for interpreting test results. Comprehensive methods
for evaluating cumulative effects of continuing disposal at one or several disposal
sites do not exist. The Corps has conducted limited field tests of procedures to
eliminate or minimize adverse impacts of dredged material disposal through
capping contaminated material with noncontaminated material in conformance
with the legal provision for capping contained in the international London
Dumping Convention. Laboratory studies of the biological, chemical, and
physical aspects of capping were initiated along with a survey of the engineering
aspects of capping. Studies on the bioaccumulation, environmental interpretation
of consequences of bioaccumulation, and biomagnification of toxic substances in
aquatic organisms were continued with work on the biomagnification of toxic
substances in aquatic organisms completed in FY 84.
Additionally, methods were developed to size containment areas to minimize
the discharge of suspended solids in the effluent. The sizing procedure was not
designed to predict contaminant concentrations in the effluent, nor did it account
for geochemical changes that will occur with time within the containment areas.
Studies were initiated to predict effluent quality from diked containment areas.
Under the Dredging Operations and Technical Support Program, limited work
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was initiated to predict the potential mobility of toxic substances into plants from
contaminated sediments. Laboratory studies were initiated and generally limited
to site-specific projects, and first-generation tests procedures were developed that
require verification. Contacts have been made with foreign researchers in this
area for incorporation of their data bases into the work unit on toxic substances
bioaccumulation in plants. In FY 84, a modified elutriate laboratory test was
developed that provides an indication of contaminant levels in effluent from
confined disposal areas. Field studies were continued to verify the procedures for
determining contaminant levels in effluerts. Development of an interim
technique for predicting contaminant levels in disposal area effluents was
completed in FY 84 along with initial mixing zone guidance. Additionally, in FY
84 work on the freshwater and saltwater plant bioassay test for determining toxic
substances bioaccumulation was continued.
In FY 85, draft technical guidance on the development of predictive techniques
for estimating effluent quality in diked containment areas was completed. Initial
mixing zone guidance was refined.
Natural resources
The Corps of Engineers is mandated to provide recreational opportunities for
the general public and to maintain the natural resources for future generations at
its water resource development projects. Carrying out these requirements, while
adhering to new directives regarding reductions in budgets and personnel, has
fostered an even greater need for research. Visitation to these projects has
continued to increase, indicating the public’s acceptance of these developments.
The increasing significance of recreation area development and operation
associated with the Corps’ existing projects has focused attention on the need for
improved methodology in the planning, design, construction, maintenance, and
operation of Corps-controlled recreation and related natural resource areas.
Marine facilities at Corps projects.
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Plant-growth regulator reduces mowing in a recreation area.
To assist resource managers and planners, a handbook on computing cost-
effectiveness of alternative sanitary facilities was developed and distributed.
Program-developed performance standards, useful in developing O&M contracts,
have assisted Districts in their contracting endeavors and in determining hired
labor needs. A system of cost tracking for recreation area maintenance has been
developed which enables managers to determine costs for conducting various
maintenance tasks. Once costs are determined, this information can be used to
increase efficiency or to estimate potential contract costs.
One of the methods used in managing recreation and natural areas is
communicating with the using public. Guidelines for the use of interpretation as a
management tool have been well received at Corps water resource projects. As a
result of feedback from project personnel, a number of supplements to the original
guidelines were distributed. Implementation of various interpretive tools will lead
to lower maintenance costs and improved visitor relationships. Requests from
other Federal and state agencies have indicated a wide interest in this
accomplishment. In addition, several universities are using the guidelines as
resource materials. Efforts in the area of visitor safety and security have led to the
development of improved administration of law enforcement contracts. Weak¬
nesses in the design of recreation areas which contribute to increased incidents of
crime have been isolated, and techniques to overcome some of these flaws have
become available. This study also revealed situations which contribute to the
public’s perception of security. Where appropriate, findings were tested within the
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Corps recreation campground facilities.
recreation research and demonstration system for suitability for Corps-wide
adoption.
Increased emphasis on recovering O&M costs through user and entrance fees
is being addressed. Close coordination with other Federal and state agencies is
being maintained to prevent a duplication of effort. Benefits of this effort will
include optimal methods of collecting fees which have been developed by other
agencies and are adaptable for use by Corps management. The amount of revenue
produced will depend upon the options implemented and the authority for
implementation.
The increased use of microcomputers at the project level has produced the need
to increase efficiency in the software programs developed by reducing duplication
of effort. Savings in manpower and funding will be evident as this effort
progresses. Upcoming accomplishments within the next 3 years will enable the
Corps to economize on the management of their recreation areas through more
efficient scaling of developed areas, better data for determining park consolidation
and/or closures, and more efficient vegetation management.
Water quality
The water quality program is a new R&D initiative for FY 86. Because of its
broad mission, there has been extensive coordination during its initial planning
to minimize overlap and eliminate duplication of effort. During the formulation of
this program, the Wastewater Management Program, which was concerned with
analytical methods, was incorporated into the Water Quality Research Program.
Previous accomplishments of this work include automation of water quality
laboratories from both a hardware and software standpoint, a survey of Corps
water quality laboratories, and guidelines on chemical systems information
networks and laboratory operations.
Part IV
CONCLUDING REMARKS
§m
In the short term, the Corps of Engineers does not expect any significant
mission changes in its Civil Works functions and responsibilities. However, it is
expected that there will be a continuing strong R&D emphasis:
1. On Corps operations and maintenance related research and development to
provide Corps field offices with improved methods and technologies and cost
savings.
2. On dredging operations to achieve cost reductions and improvements in this
important activity.
3. To explore and apply a wide variety of remote sensing techniques to Corps
Civil Works missions to achieve greater efficiency and cost saving.
4. On navigation and flood control activities.
5. To continue improvement of Corps capabilities in coastal engineering.
6. To improve the environment with emphasis on management and conservation
of natural and cultural resources.
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