Apr 21, 2020
What happened to Lake Michigan water levels?
Water levels continued to rise on Lake Michigan in February, and it dropped 1″ in March*.
According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit district, “February was drier across most of the Great Lakes. However, water levels remain above record highs for this time of year”. In reality, February saw another two-inch increase compared to February of 2019.
We projected a 10″ rise in water levels year to year. We missed that mark. It rose 14 inches, which represents 11 trillion gallons more water in the Lake Michigan-Huron water system since last year. Believe it or not, that included the 1″ drop in March.
Water levels usually peak in late summer or early Fall. At present, the Army Corps predicts the water level will continue to rise another 1-5″ before Fall.
With the high water levels, you should expect stronger storm action in the summer months. With this action, there will be more erosion along the exposed shorelines.
What can you do to protect your property from rising water levels?
There are TWO things you can do:
- Install rip-rap to help protect your shoreline. Residents of the Door County peninsula already trust PWS to do a professional job. Call Dave @ (920) 905-2588; and
- Look at the new 3-Season Pier. Call Jerry @ (920)-493-4404.
PWS is all about SOLUTIONS!
Tell Your Friends & Family
Have friends or neighbors you believe should see this article? Email them this Link – and Thank you!
Visit Pier & Waterfront Solutions on Facebook also.
Where is Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
Located at 7325 St. Hwy 57, it’s 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay, and 1 mile past the intersection of Cty MM (heading north). Look on the right side, one mile north at the next intersection (Idlewild Road and Hwy 57).
ARE WE OPEN?
During this time of uncertainty, Pier & Waterfront Solutions is staying “open.” We have implemented measures to ensure the safety of our employees and visitors. At the same time, we are working to maintain the trusted service that you have come to expect.
We are implementing these precautionary measures:
1. Conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
2. Site visits will continue but with limited in-person meetings. When in-person contacts are necessary, we will follow “social distancing” guidelines.
3. Our display yard is always open for you to examine at your leisure. All displays have a numbered, red tag on them. If you want more information or pricing, please reference that number.
Is there More?
4. Some employees will be working remotely, but they are always available by phone.
5. Any employee with symptoms or illness is sent home.
6. We continue to provide estimates and invoices by email to make the process paperless.
7. Crew starting times are being staggered to limit social interactions.
8. We keep the same crews together to limit cross interactions.
With these measures, we hope everyone will stay safe, and we will be back to normal operations soon.
What can you do to help us?
1. Please conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and emails. This step protects everyone involved.
2. When you see our crews installing equipment, please practice “social distancing.”
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
So – YES – ARE WE OPEN?
Please call, message, or email us with any questions.
Let’s all stay safe!
Contact:
Jerry @ (920) 493-4404 or Jerry@wisconsinpws.com – Commercial work & new/used Sales.
Dave @ (920) 905-2588 or Dave@wisconsinpws.com – Erosion control & shoreline work.
John @ (920) 493-4405 or John@wisconsinpws.com – Scheduling & Service work
*Credits: MLive and Huron Daily Tribune
Aug 6, 2019
WHY DOES MY DOCK SWAY?
Spring Storms
Dock sway is a result of deeper water and the need to raise your dock higher out of the water.
In 2016 we did an article about dock sway as a result of the high water that year. 2017 was worse, and 2018 continues this trend. The water depths have risen so much that each month brings new records. These records replace standards set years before many of us were born.
This year, in particular, we have experienced an unusual number of strong N.E. winds. These winds have resulted in the water depths you experience daily, to rise even further for a day or more.
These storm surges are the result of the bay being enclosed on three sides. There are limited rivers to dissipate the water at the south end when this happens. Those rivers are already at high levels and can’t dissipate more water.
Tall Ships
Recently the “Tall Ships” came to Green Bay, and some of the ships did not have enough room under the Tower Drive bridge near the mouth of the Fox river to pass under them. They had to wait until the winds changed to enter Green Bay for their exhibition.
For more information on the Tall Ships see https://tallshipswisconsin.com/event-description/
What can PWS do about Dock Sway?
To protect your dock as much as we can, we raise your dock higher to lessen the chance of storm damage. Many of you are aware of this because the dock legs were too short to allow us to raise your dock. Our Service Manager had to contact many people to enable us to take extra time to change the legs. Our installations, which were already slowed down by frequent rain and strong winds, got even slower.
Unfortunately, raising a dock moves the center of gravity higher, and it causes the dock to “sway” when you walk on it.
Here’s an example. If you step on a 6-foot step ladder, the first few rungs are stable. The higher you go – not so much. Place your feet on the top of the ladder, and you quickly realize you are in a precarious position. (Better start looking for a safe place to land.)
ShoreMaster docks, equipped with infinity leg pockets, extend the pockets to 18″ deep versus the usual 4″ – 6″ most docks have. Angled braces are added along with the pockets. Unfortunately, even this is not enough to prevent the sway some people are incurring.
Is there another solution?
Sway brace
There is a partial solution which helps but does not totally eliminate sway – the addition of sway braces to the legs.
The addition of one or more cross-braces will reduce the swaying motion. Cross braces are rigid pipe(s) attached at an angle to the legs of the dock. For the pier to sway at the top, it must also move the opposite leg at the base where it is firmer. Mounting sway braces lessens the amount of sway you experience.
If your dock is swaying too much for your comfort, please call John, our service manager, at 920-493-4405.
For sales, contact Jerry (Jerry@wisconsinpws.com) or call 920-493-4404.
Do you have a friend that might be interested in this post? Please forward it to them.
PWS is located at 7325 St. Hwy 57. That’s 1 mile North of County MM (Hwy 42) and 4 miles South of Sturgeon Bay at the Idlewild Road intersection.
Jul 23, 2019
JET SKIS and THE LAW
Stand-up PWC
State & Federal law has a lot to say about how you operate your Jet Ski.
Keep 100 feet apart
Many people don’t realize there are legal ways and some NOT so legal ways to operate a PWC or jet ski.
Beyond the usual title and registration that everyone expects, there are specific laws that apply to PWC’s.
Who can operate a jet ski?
In Wisconsin, a person younger than 12 years of age, may not operate a PWC or jet ski.
12-15 years olds may operate a pwc ONLY If they have completed a boating safety course. The Wisconsin DNR must accept the course. Sorry, you can’t substitute parental supervision for this course.
A person at least 16 years old may operate a PWC only if they have completed an accepted boating safety course.
Were you born before Jan 1, 1989?
You are exempt from the course requirement.
No one under 16 years old may rent or lease a PWC.
Remember if you have taken the proper courses, you must carry a copy of the certificate with you and make it available to law enforcement officers when requested.
In addition to the U.S. Coast Guard, Wisconsin conservation wardens, county sheriffs, and municipal police enforce the laws.
Boat Safety Rule #3- Don’t get a visit from him
Just like driving a vehicle, it is illegal to:
- refuse to follow the instruction of a law enforcement officer.
- A pwc operator must slow to “no-wake” or “slow” and give way to a patrol boat if it’s emergency lights are on or if they signal you to stop.
- You must stop when requested or signaled by a law enforcement officer or patrol boat.
- Furthermore, you must reduce speed to “slow” or “no-wake” and stay at least 100 feet from a patrol boat with its emergency lights activated. It’s similar to pulling into another lane when you see an emergency vehicle on a roadway.
You must have the legally required equipment on board at all times including:
Boat Safety Rule #1- Everyone needs one
- PFD (personal flotation device or life jackets) even on canoes and kayaks.
- Kids under 13 must WEAR their PDF while underway on a pwc on federally controlled waters.
- EVERY person on a pwc MUST wear an approved PDF.
- You must wear the proper size PDF, and it must be in good and serviceable condition. No tears, rips, broken straps, or snaps.
Do I need a sound-producing device (Horn) on a PWC?
No! UNLESS you are on federally controlled waters like Lake Michigan.
Are we done? Not Really!
It is against the law to operate a vessel in a negligent or reckless manner such as in a manner that causes danger to life or limb.
Here are some examples:
Operating a vessel within 100 feet of the shoreline, a raft or pier at speeds higher than “no-wake” or “Slow.”
Jumping the wake of another vessel that is towing someone;
Operating a pwc within an area which is marked off for swimming;
Weaving your craft through congested waterways;
Causing hazardous wave or wake conditions while passing another vessel;
Steering toward another object or person and swerving at the last moment; or chasing, harassing or disturbing wildlife.
Overloading your vessel
If you have a pwc rated for two people, that is the maximum number you can have on it at any time regardless of weight or age.
These are just some of the laws you must follow.
Think of operating a vessel like you would a car. If it’s not legal in a car or truck, don’t try it on the water. Example – Do NOT drink and drive!!
Visit the DNR website at www.dnr.wi.gov and enter “boat safety” to find acceptable boating courses. Also, look for https://dnr.wi.gov/files/pdf/pubs/le/le0301.pdf
To read part one of this series go to https://wisconsinpws.com/pwc-jet-ski-users-guide
Keep us all safe, and we’ll all enjoy the water more on a PWC.
Do you have a friend that might be interested in this post? Please forward it to them.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions
PWS is located at 7325 St. Hwy 57. That’s 1 mile North of County MM (Hwy 42) and 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay at the Idlewild Road intersection. Or – for more information, you can call Jerry @ 920-493-4404.
Jul 2, 2019
JULY 4 th IS ALMOST HERE
July 4 th is something we all look forward to each year. There are fireworks, family reunions, and making new friends.
Making a new friend on July 4 th
This year we especially look forward to the four day weekend it brings with it. If Mother Nature cooperates with us, it should be a great weekend.
July 4 th Door County Happenings
Check this article out for a list of July 4 th activities.
However, let’s not forget what July 4th also brings with it. Generally, the boat traffic is substantial all through the weekend. There will be lots of water skiing and boating going on. Not to mention the parties.
Safety Tips
Some safety tips that we must all be aware of are:
Boat Safety Rule #3- Don’t get a visit from him
1. Choose a designated driver. It’s not just for cars. The DNR and law enforcement will be out in force trying to protect you.
2. Don’t allow anyone under the influence to swim alone.
3. Be especially mindful of kids. That means your kids or grandkids and also the neighbors. Kids know no boundaries.
4. Fireworks on boats are a real danger. You have fuel and many flammable items on a boat. Besides, people are in close proximity even a pontoon boat. Leave the fireworks to the professionals.
5. The weather to date has been colder than average, and many of the trees are way behind. Did you know, if you are in an area where there are poplar trees, and you see those fuzzy white balls floating in the air and clinging to your lawn, they present danger around camp-fires and fireworks?
How can something so lightweight and harmless be a danger? The author was at campground years back with the ground covered by the fuzz. Someone threw a firecracker on the ground, and the resulting flash instantly caused a fire that moved incredibly fast. Everyone at the campground had to fight the fast-moving flames. It swept rapidly in every direction.
6. Did you know that, in general, the same rules apply when operating a boat as operating a vehicle? You can receive a citation for following too closely, racing a boat or jet ski too closely, driving under the influence, making dangerous maneuvers, not having the proper life preservers (just like a seatbelt), and more.
MANY MORE IDEAS
We could go on and on but if you want more information about safety, consider reading this article. Here are some more 4th of July tips.
We frequently stress safety because it only takes a snap of your fingers for an accident to happen. We don’t want your weekend (or life) ruined by one wrong decision.
Have a safe and enjoyable July 4th holiday
Where can you find Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
We are located in the center of the Door County Peninsula at 7325 St. Hwy 42/57. That’s 1 mile North of County MM (Hwy 42) and 3 miles South of Sturgeon Bay. Look for the Idlewild Road intersection.
Don’t forget – Give us a call If you have a dock or boatlift topic you would like to see addressed on our site.
Call Jerry at 920-493-4404 or Email Jerry@wisconsinpws.com for more information.
Jun 25, 2019
Kayaks are great exercise
Kayaks & Canoes
Kayaks & canoes are a healthy way to see more of the Door County Penninsula. Both outdoor activities provide a quiet way to relax and enjoy your surroundings. Take it from one who has tried kayaking – it is a peaceful way to spend your day. You won’t want to return to shore.
Besides paddleboarding, these two activities bring the splendor of the Door County peninsula right to you. Remember the early morning and evening panoramic views we all love so much about Door County? These are a great way to watch those sunsets and or sunrises.
Canoeing with man’s best friend
What do you do when you return to your dock?
Kayak & canoe rack
What could be easier than walking to your dock and having the canoe or kayak waiting for you? By using the Canoe/Kayak racks from ShoreMaster, your equipment will be ready to go when you are.
With these easily mounted “racks” available at Pier & Waterfront Solutions, you could save a twisted ankle or sprained knee. Keep your equipment right at the dock. There is no need to walk across the rocks and risk a twisted ankle while carrying your kayak up to the house or garage.
Do you have a friend that might be interested in this post? Please forward it to them.
PWS is located at 7325 St. Hwy 57. That’s 1 mile North of County MM (Hwy 42) and 3 miles South of Sturgeon Bay at the Idlewild Road intersection. Or – you can call Jerry @ 920-493-4404 for more information.
