As the WaveShaper is installed in the Chattahoochee, MWDG Engineers Rick McLaughlin and Jack Goble point out an aspect of the Chattahoochee River design that, once completed, will be evident only in what you don’t see…! They are employing a construction technique that insures structural integrity, recreational performance, and high quality aesthetics while greatly reducing the amount surface area and visible grout, thereby making it easier for fish to “pass,” or swim upstream.
Rick explains, “The methodology builds upon the Layered Grouted Boulder (LGB) technique MWDG engineers developed in the 1990s. In this new approach, the LBG armoring system provides for cost-effective reliability stable foundation. However, the grout is kept well below the waterline and does not impede interstitial flow between the boulders that is conducive to fish passage.”
“Surface boulders are then placed in their proposed position (location, elevation and rotation) on the LGB foundation. Holes are drilled strategically through the boulders and into bedrock at locations based upon structural needs and the geological characteristics of each boulder, and steel rods or rock anchors are placed in the holes and grouted. The Surface boulders are permanently “pinned” in place allowing our designs to maintain their unprecedented structural integrity while greatly enhancing fish passage and almost eliminating visible grout.”
Jack adds, acknowledging the importance of minimizing hazards, “Some grout is still used around the side and under the boulders to reduce the chance of foot and hand entrapment.”
