Plan an EROSION CONTROL Project

How to Plan an EROSION CONTROL PROJECT

Part 2 of a series discusses FAQ about erosion control – The signs to look for and steps to take. See part one for more information. 

Before beginning any actions to correct erosion, determine why the erosion is occurring. Without understanding the problem, any steps taken may waste time and money and may cause or worsen the situation. 

Decide if the problem is severe enough to warrant correcting. Is the erosion more than in undisturbed reaches?

What are the threats to private property?

Even though there have been numerous studies and publications on this topic, each problem is unique. There are no manuals with generic plans for bank protection projects which are guaranteed to work. 

Although installing a simple erosion control structure yourself may be possible, most techniques have technical standards for size, height, shape, and underlayment. These do not even include the legal requirements of the DNR. 

It is best to consult with a resource professional experienced with various techniques when planning the installation of erosion control structures.   Thanks to Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council for the use of the above information.

PWS handles all the applications, permits, and drawings from the beginning to the end.  PWS does all the work for you. Sit back and relax.  

To start the process:

 Call Dave 920-905-4406 or email dave@wisconsinpws.com.

You can also use this convenient form.

 

Does controlling the erosion help my property values?

Shoreline erosion creates issues for property owners, aside from hurting the lake environment. Property value is exceptionally dependent on controlling shoreline erosion. “One of the most apparent impacts, and perhaps that most significant concern to many shoreline property owners, is the loss of valuable waterfront property. Given the high value of shoreline property, a loss of just one foot of shore along a 100-foot lot can represent a loss of more than $9,000 on a cost-per-square-foot basis. 

These thoughts do not take into account potential damage to, or loss of, near-shore buildings and structures,” according to WatershedCouncil.org. 

In recent years, we’ve seen beaches all but disappearing. When property owners try to control shoreline erosion with the wrong methods, they can actually make the problems worse for themselves and their neighbors. That’s why you should leave rip-rap construction up to the professionals at Pier & Waterfront Solutions.

 

Will my landscaping be destroyed?

                                        Enlarged 36′ x 45′ Barge

PWS can access your shoreline by land.  This is the easiest method. 

At the same time, we understand the destruction of some landscaping can be a great loss. 

PWS has a second method – our 36′ x 45′ barge can do all the work from the lake side.  There is no damage to your landscaping.


What can I expect for costs?

The costs vary by what solution is needed. The more complex the solution, the higher the price. A homeowner can expect to spend an estimated $45 – $90* per linear foot on materials. However, if a site is challenging to access, it may cost more. 

*Permit fees, design, and installation fees not included. An estimate from PWS includes ALL costs you will encounter.  No surprises.

 

How will I get to the beach with the rip rap in place?

PWS has faced this question numerous times. We install rock steps when requested to make it easy to access the remaining beach, as shown here.

 

                                            Grouted stairs

In this series of articles, we’ve:

    1. Walked you through some of the leading causes of shoreline erosion:
    2. What’s happening currently with shoreline erosion and the Great Lakes:
    3. How to prevent shoreline erosion, and 
    4. What steps you can take to fix it the right way.

Can’t find the answer to your question? Email Dave @ dave@wisconsinpws.com

 

How does rip-rap work?

Properly installed rip-rap absorbs the energy from the waves as shown in this video.  Watch closely at 40 seconds to see the rip-rap doing it’s work.  By removing the wave energy, the shoreline stays in tact.

The water drops down into the crevices and dissipates in all directions.  See this article for more information.

 

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 corner (Idlewild Road and Hwy 57).

 

Is PWS OPEN?

Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open.” We have implemented measures to help ensure the safety of our employees and visitors. PWS continues to work to maintain the trusted service that you have come to expect.

 

PWS implemented these preventive measures:

1. Conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.

2. Site visits will continue. 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.

 

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.” Remain outside at a safe distance.

Thank you for allowing us to work with you.

 YES – PWS is OPEN and waiting for you! 

Please call, message, or email PWS with any questions.

Let’s all stay safe!

sooo happy with the dock! 

sooo happy with the dock! 

Jerry & Keri:

We are sooo happy with the dock!  The three men who installed it are to be commended.  They are Awesome!

Thank you so much for getting it in.  We will recommend your company to all.  You have been great to us!

Mary and Gary L.              Egg Harbor

CAUSES OF SHORELINE EROSION

WHAT CAUSES SHORELINE EROSION? 

Lakeshores are areas of constant dynamic energy. Powerful waves, high water, and ice move soil particles away from shorelines. In more severe cases, small pebbles and eventually rocks begin to wash out. When the water reaches far enough up the shoreline, erosion of lawns and exposing tree roots start. 

We’ll try to answer some of your questions today.

 

What are the leading causes of shoreline erosion?

On open water like Green Bay, the three leading causes of erosions are:

    1. Wave action;
    2. High water; and 
    3. Ice movement.

The ice on frozen lakes or the Bay can expand towards the shore with a force of many tons per square foot. The ice will destroy most obstacles in its path. Masses of ice put in motion by winds can push trees or buildings over, as exhibited here.

 

            Ice vs deck erosion

tree roots exposed by water

      Shoreline tree roots exposed

 

Ice also pushes embankments, uprooting trees and lawns on small inland lakes. No matter how massive a tree is, the ice won’t slow down for it.

 

Ice Shove uprooting trees

      Ice Shove uprooting trees

 

 

 

 

 

 

In relatively small inland lakes, breaking waves can erode lawns away.  

Headlands (points) usually have relatively high erosion rates. The waves, currents, and the ice will attack from all three sides. These attacks eventually transport the sediments to a new location where they settle in calmer weather.

 

Erosion is a normal process of nature.

Erosion and the redistribution of sediments is a natural process along shorelines. Typically, natural erosion proceeds very slowly. The plants and animals that live along the shore can adjust to these slow changes. They maintain a stable, healthy, productive ecosystem.  

Accelerated erosion results when natural or human disturbances cause this equilibrium to be upset. Examples of this are higher than normal water levels and intense storms.

Human disturbances include vegetation removal, dredging, filling, or construction near the shoreline.

Another example of natural disturbances is large trees uprooted by a windstorm or a flood. When the soil becomes saturated with water, it weakens the soil around tree roots. The winds may uproot that tree.

 

IDENTIFY SERIOUS EROSION PROBLEMS

These are several signs of severe erosion problems. (Number one and three are significant)

  1. A large area of bare soil on a steep, high shoreline bank;
  2. A measurable change of the shoreline over time;
  3. Leaning or downed trees with exposed roots; and
  4. Large patches of muddy water near a lakeshore during periods of high water or following a rainstorm.

 

3 TYPES OF REACTIVE EROSION CONTROL METHODS:

Vegetative/No Mow: This method involves encouraging or planting trees or woody shrubs for the soil binding properties of their root systems. Grass and other plants will protect against raindrop impact and scouring from surface runoff.  

Structural: This includes protective structures. The placement of rock of various sizes (rip-rap) has traditionally been the most effective and least expensive method. 

Other structural methods include bulkheads, gabions (rock-filled baskets), and railroad ties. However, these methods are visually unappealing. They require more heavy equipment and technical expertise. These systems are more prone to failure than simple rip-rap. In addition, the DNR has disapproved of these methods in the past.

Manipulative: Mostly used on streams, this includes:

      1. Removing streamflow obstructions;
      2. Grading shoreline banks, or, in exceptional circumstances;
      3. Rerouting a stream channel.

 

Are there new techniques developed to prevent erosion?

A new soil preservation method called bioengineering has been proven successful. 

Soil bioengineering combines mechanical, biological, and ecological concepts. These methods arrest and prevent shoreline erosion. An example is planting willows interspersed with rip-rap, where the rock provides immediate resistance to decay. 

As the willows become established, roots invade and permeate the rock and underlying soil. They bind them together into an erosion-resistant mass. The willows also impart a more “natural” look to the shoreline.

 

Water levels are down; I don’t have to worry – Right??

This year, people do see water levels about 18-24″ less than in 2020. High water levels are the most significant contributing factor to shoreline erosion.  

Will it stay down next year or in the years after? No one knows. In Las Vegas, that’s called a crapshoot.

 

What other factors affect my shoreline?

The next factor is the intensity of the storms. The Door County Peninsula had numerous high wind storms this year with up to 70 MPH winds.  

A popular Marina in Sturgeon Bay: Skipper Bud’s Harbor Marina, located at the foot of the Michigan St. bridge, was a victim of a recent storm. 

The marina had two of its five floating docks torn loose during a strong storm. Two tub boats quickly moved in place to prevent them from swinging into the bridge.

 

Are there other contributing factors to shoreline erosion?

You can expect water levels to rise rapidly when winds blow from the NW – NE direction for prolonged periods. This is despite the lower water levels this year. The stronger the winds, the higher the water will go. Waters south of Sturgeon Bay are particularly affected by these winds. In those areas, there are no other large outlets for the water to escape.

 

DO YOU NEED AN ESTIMATE FOR RIP-RAP?

Contact Dave@ 920-493-4406 or email at Dave@wisconsinpws.com.

 

What comes next?

Next week (on Aug 10, 2021), we will cover:

          1. Planning an erosion control project;
          2. Does erosion hurt my property values?
          3. What to expect for the cost of rip-rap.

 

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 corner (Idlewild Road and Hwy 57).

 

Is PWS OPEN?

The “Delta” variant is currently surging across the country. 

Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open.” We have implemented measures to help protect the safety of our employees and visitors. PWS continues to work to maintain the trusted service that you have come to expect.

 

PWS implemented these preventive measures:

  1. Conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
  2. Site visits will continue. 
  3. When in-person contacts are necessary, we follow “social distancing” guidelines.
  4. Our display yard is always open for you to examine at your leisure. 
  5. All displays have a numbered, red tag on them. For more information, please reference that number.

 

What can YOU do to help us? 

1. Conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and emails.

2. When you see our crews installing equipment, please practice “social distancing.”

Thank you for allowing us to work with you.

 YES – PWS is OPEN and waiting for you! 

Please call, message, or email PWS with any questions.

Let’s all stay safe!

DOCK & HISTORY of PWS

PIER & WATERFRONT SOLUTIONS

It’s been a fast-moving six months since our last article about PWS

Dave Kalista and Jerry Englebert started in 2015. Like all new business owners, they were willing to put their futures on the line. 

The first “office” consisted of a tiny room that was so small that you had to walk sideways to get to the table. It was the size of a closet in a new home.

 

All-Terrain Forklift

PWS tested an ATF that buried itself in the soft shoreline at Sugar Creek Park. It became clear that the machine would not work.

 

                                        ATF for dock install

 

PWS bought the 1st All-Terrain Forklift and modified it to handle the conditions they would encounter.

While Jerry made sales, installs were done by hand or by using the All-Terrain Forklift. Dave operated the ATF along with Alex, our first employee. Alex is with us today and has his own crew.

 

PWS expanded

Pier & Waterfront Solutions moved out of the “closet” and into an office on Hwy 57 (our current location). 

Today, manufacturing, a welding operation, and an assembly area occupy the warehouse. We still have room for a limited amount of equipment storage.

2016-2021 saw more ATF’s, crews, and trailers added – five ATF’s to be exact. 

Meanwhile, the one-room office has grown into three offices. These offices accommodate the office staff of six required to handle the growing business.

 

PWS EXPANDED AGAIN

During late 2018 the Great Lakes and Green Bay experienced record water depths. The resulting damages included the loss of many shorelines. Trees and up to 50 feet of lawn washed away at some locations.

PWS responded by expanding its rip-rap business. PWS remains the only dock and boat lift company on the Door County peninsula to do so. 

 

 

                                        Enlarged 36′ x 45″ Barge

 

As the rip-rap business grew, we introduced a 24′ x 45′ barge and pusher boat. PWS needed the barge to protect the customer’s landscaping from damage. 

In 2021, PWS added another section to the barge, making it a 36″ x 45′ barge. It continues to service both sides of the peninsula from Milwaukee to the tip of Door County.

 

Why such a large barge? 

The barge allows PWS to transport excavators, track-mounted skid steers, and tons of boulders to the work sites from the waterside. 

There is no damage to the landscaping.

It’s more economical for the homeowner, in most cases, and gives us access to areas that aren’t accessible by land.

 

GALVANIZED DOCK – NEXT INTRODUCTION

 

                                                      3-Season Pier

 

PWS developed a line of galvanized steel docks. The new docks use the best materials available today. Most steel docks are too light to handle the storms in open areas. Other models lacked the open-deck design of the 3-Season Pier.

After two years of testing, PWS introduced the 3-Season Pier. As a heavier, more robust steel pier, it is unmatched on Lake Michigan. 

One of the features of the 3-Season Pier is a 25% larger platform. That’s more room for entertaining. Plus, it’s not a “special order.” “Special Order” is just another way of saying – more expensive.

The 3-Season Pier is available in 4′, 5′, and the prestigious 6′ width. The 3-Season Pier handles the high water and the strong storms you experience today. 

The strength and dependability are evident when you look for a dock that will be around for a long time.

 

What was next?

The rapidly expanding business required more innovation to keep up with demand. In 2021, PWS added another barge. This time, equipped with a movable crane. 

                                                 Barge w/ crane for dock removal

The “Small” barge (12′ x 45′) contains an articulating crane with a 60′ reach. The “small barge” eliminates the need for shore access by heavy equipment. The new crane also means reduced damage to a homeowner’s landscaping.

As Door County continues to build, land access for our equipment is diminishing. In the past, empty lots served as access to the shorelines. Today those lots are fully developed with manicured lawns and huge homes. In some areas, water access is the only available route.

 

What has happened to the Dock market in Door County?

The unexpected closure of an old dock business in Door County resulted in an influx of new customers. PWS is already planning its next moves to handle a large number of new customers. We plan to have everything ready for Spring 2022.

 

How will you find out about these changes?

The best way is to come back here each week and follow these posts on our website.

 

Summary

PWS already had the strongest aluminum dock as part of the ShoreMaster line. Now PWS has the strongest galvanized steel dock.

Call Jerry today. (920-493-4404) or email him at jerry@wisconsinpws.com or use this request form.

Tell Your Friends & Family

Visit Pier & Waterfront Solutions on Facebook.

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 County MM (heading north). Look on the right side, one mile north, at the next corner (Idlewild Road and Hwy 57).

 

Is PWS OPEN?

Pier & Waterfront Solutions never closed. We have implemented measures to ensure the safety of our employees and visitors. We are working to maintain the trusted service that you have come to expect.

 

PWS implemented precautionary measures:

1. Conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.

2. Site visits continue. 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.

 

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.

 

YESPWS is OPEN and waiting for you! 

Please call, message, or email PWS with any questions.

Let’s all stay safe!

NEED A NEW STAIRWAY?

NEED A NEW STAIRWAY?

Is the wood on the stairway to the beach rotted? Are those flat stones moss-covered, tilted, and slippery? Are the railings loose? And most importantly – Would your favorite grandmother feel safe walking down to the beach?

Just need to add handrails?  PWS does that, too.  

image of Side view of stairs

                                  Side view of stairs

 

 

 

 

 

What if it’s a long walk? Do you need a place to “rest” along the way? PWS places landings wherever required.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Did you answer YES??

If you answered “YES” to any of these questions, you need to talk to Jerry at Pier & Waterfront Solutions.

Do it today!!  

 

                                              Steep stairway

Photo by Erik Mclean from Pexels

PWS works with wood or steel frames along with the materials you specify.

 Why risk slipping on the walk down to the beach?  PWS can repair or replace it with stairs that you feel comfortable and safe walking on.

Your family and guests deserve a safe way to get to the water.

 

Trust PWS for all things beach-related – including getting there.

We will remove and dispose of the old decks, stairs, and docks as part of our service. Just sit back and watch our crews do the work for you.

Make getting to the beach safe again for your family and friends. Even grandma will like it.

 

WHY WAIT?? 

Call Jerry today. (920-493-4404)  or jerry@wisconsinpws.com

Here’s another way to start the process – use this simple quote request form. We’ll be in touch.

Pier & Waterfront Solutions has the solution for you!!

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 too.

 

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 corner (Idlewild Road and Hwy 57).

 

Is PWS OPEN?

Pier & Waterfront Solutions has remained “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.

 

PWS implemented these precautionary measures:

1. Conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
2. Site visits will continue. 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.

 

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.

 YESPWS is  OPEN and waiting for you! 

Please call, message, or email PWS with any questions.

Let’s all stay safe!