Navigating the Storm: Improving Safety and Stability in the US Coast Guard Great Lakes Boat Basin

Abstract: The boat basin of the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Eastern Great Lakes experiences relentless and severe weather conditions throughout the year. It is positioned at the mouth of the Buffalo River Channel in Buffalo, New York, nestled on the shores of Lake Erie. Its location subjects it to a convergence of locally generated, short-period waves from the north and the diffraction of long-period waves stemming from its western exposure to the lake. The basin's formation, characterized by vertical walled structures, intensifies wave reflection within its confines, resulting in a seiche effect. These adverse conditions not only pose a threat to the integrity of the USCG's basin facilities, but also render navigation and operations within the basin challenging and hazardous.

To better understand the wave conditions in the boat basin, in 2020 the USCG Civil Engineering Unit Cleveland collaborated with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo District (USACE-LRB) to conduct an initial assessment of the prevailing wave dynamics using wave gauges stationed within the basin. Building upon the findings of this study, in 2022, the USCG delved deeper into the existing wave conditions of the basin and evaluated the effectiveness of various wave attenuating systems. Leveraging advanced modeling tools, the existing wave conditions were simulated, and a comprehensive analysis was conducted to assess the efficacy of various wave-attenuating systems. By utilizing these modeling programs, the team identified the optimal wave-attenuating system while also navigating the complexities of regulatory compliance, budgetary constraints, and operational requirements.

How does this project / topic contribute to the advancement of the industry and profession?: This project explores multiple types of wave attenuation systems using advanced wave modeling techniques to find the most cost-effective method for reducing wave action within a confined boat basin. This project will provide a greater understanding of wave attenuating structure use within a confined boat basin in the Great Lakes.

Does the project / topic implement new and innovative techniques, materials, technologies, and delivery methods?: This project utilized advanced wave modeling techniques to simulate the existing conditions and assess the effectiveness of various wave attenuating structures within the boat basin. These models allowed for a detailed evaluation of various types of wave attenuation structures and their feasibility to mitigate waves given the site conditions and constraints.

What was the most challenging aspect of your project / topic and how did you handle it to ensure success?: The project has harsh existing conditions, limited budget, and limited space within the boat basin for the installation of wave attenuation structures. The project explored multiple unique solutions that were evaluated for their effectiveness, cost, constructability, and impact to existing operations within the boat basin. By leveraging wave modeling programs we were able to identify an effective means to reduce the wave action within the basin and by implementing a phased approach during construction allowed us to mitigate the budgetary constraints.

Who is the target audience for this paper?: Marine and coastal engineers; marine facility managers, and operators.