Author(s): J. H. Lever; G. Gooch
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: No Keywords
Abstract:
We recently developed a low-cost structure to control breakup ice jams in small rivers. It consists of massive, sloped blocks spaced across the river adjacent to a natural floodplain. Optimized through a series of l: 10-scale model tests, this structure has performed well since its construction in Hardwick, Vermont, in September 1994. Here we compare its performance during breakup in January 1996 with the results obtained for a similar model test. The jam-initiation surge in the field was half the amplitude of the model surge, causing a more porous, thinner grounded toe at the structure. Consequently, the field jam released after about 3 hours, whereas the model structure held the jam throughout the test. A more severe breakup event is needed to assess the effectiveness structure and the modeling used for its design.
Year: 1998