According to the United States Department of Transportation, underwater scour is the leading cause of bridge failure, ahead of collisions and overloading. Scour is the erosion or removal of a streambed or bank material from bridge foundations due to flowing water. As many bridges sit over water, the potential dangers of scour cannot be ignored. There are many solutions to scour problems. However, there are two options that we find the most effective.

As we begin the month of November those of us that work in and around the water have to start planning for seasonal changes and the accompanying cold weather challenges.  Water temperatures begin to drop rapidly, sometimes over a degree Fahrenheit (F) per day.  This presents a whole new bunch of logistical and safety risks. 

On June 20th, the U.S. Coast Guard published the final version of 46 CFR Subchapter M, a long
awaited revamp of the laws that govern the inland waterway system.  Over the next 11 years, all commercial towing vessels that are longer than 26 feet in length will have to comply to a set of new
rules and regulations.  

Traditionally when it comes to installing sheet piling around a bridge pier or along an embankment we think of steel sheet piling.  Steel sheet piling are the most common, and have been one of the most effective methods of installing a deep foundation.  They have a long history of providing a robust barrier through shaped, interlocking sheets that can last for 75+ years. 

When considering our infrastructure often times our inland waterways are forgotten. What most people may not know is that barge transportation is as important as railways or highways.  Barges are responsible for moving more than 60% of grain exports throughout the United States.  Barge transportation is a very efficient mode of moving bulk materials such as grains, coal, and other commodities.  As stated by the National Waterways Foundation 1,750 short tons of dry cargo fit into one barge which is otherwise 16 rail cars or 70 trucks.   

            Hydrographic surveys are a very effective way to map the bottom of a river, lake, or other water body.  By using some of the latest technologies a 3-dimensional model can be developed to show contours, obstacles, scour areas, and large debris.  Even in the most turbid conditions, a hydrographic survey done correctly can be very effective.