Thursday, November 19, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Log Entries
11-11-09
Today, I did research on floating breakwaters and had a discussion with Mrs. McDonald on the effects of floating breakwaters versus non-floating breakwaters on marinas and the marine environment. There was an issue with the fact that a floating breakwater would cause issues with sediment build-up and lots of dredging would be necessary in the marina. There was also discussion of how to set up a wave tank to test out the breakwater. However, after researching the whisprwave floating breakwaters, and showing the site to Mrs. McDonald, it was determined that further testing with a wave tank is not needed, and the floating breakwater can sufficiently prevent sediment build-up, as well as stop erosion.
11-13-09
Today I worked on modifying my orthographic AutoCAD drawing. I changed the length of the docks, as well as the width they are apart. I also changed the length of the pieces that stick out on the sides of the dock. The docks are now 500 feet long, except for the gas dock that is 600 feet long. Also, the docks are now 100 feet apart with the exception of the gas dock, which is 150 feet apart because it will hold the largest boats. I also started to add my oil absorbent booms into the drawing.
11-17-09
Today we had a team meeting, where we reviewed the Green Marina Guidebook in preparation of Mr. Danko's visit in two days. The point of reviewing the guidebook was to look at the material again since it has been a while since we last looked at it, and we now understand a great deal more about the project that we didn't understand when we first read the guide. The second reading of the guide made a lot more sense. We made sure we were familiar with all of the different areas in the guidebook and formulated questions concerning our projects to ask Mr. Danko. Some of the questions include where we should place the oil absorbent booms in the water to get the most efficient use out of them. After the team meeting, I worked on my calendar for this marking period.
11-24-09
Today I worked on scaling our final model, and started research for the bid process report. We discussed what materials would be needed to make a final model, and places where we could purchase them. The scale for the final product was determined to be 1" equals 50'. Also, for a real life product, I chose to research the oil absorbent booms.
12-3-09
For the past few days I have been working on completing my orthographic view of the marina by deciding on final sizes for everything and dimensioning the entire drawing. I have also been working on my bid process report. We have researched various types of supplies to build our final model, and calculated the amount we would need of each product for our final model. We had first decided on using magic water in our model for the water portion, which is a product that pours and hardens on your model and has the appearance of water. However, we miscalculated the amount of this product we would need, and soon realized we would need at least $400 worth of magic water. So we are currently looking for an alternate solution to the magic water. I will be using balsa wood to construct my model docks.
12-9-09
A few days ago our team had a meeting with Mr. Danko in order to go over our specifications/limitations, as well as have him review our individual designs. We also asked him some questions about bulkheads, dock height, and how deep pilings go into the ground. We learned how a bulkhead attaches, and we received some tide information. The docks should be at least 5 feet above the water height. Mr. Danko and his assistant strongly recommended cutting down on the amount of oil booms that are used because the booms are expensive and not even necessary everywhere. He recommended placing them only in areas where there is a great deal of oil leaking, and so I moved my booms to nearby the gas dock as well as by the ramp. He also recommended placing an oil spill control kit on every dock, as well as setting up a requirement for the marina that every boat must have a boom attached to it if an owner wants to place it in that specific marina. Mr. Danko also recommended that KK move his lift to a different area, which will affect my docks. One of the docks will have to be moved at a later date, once KK figures out the location of the lift, and the amount of space it will take up.
12-11-09
Today I worked on the orthographic drawing of my dock structures, creating a top, front, and side view. I know now how deep the pilings need to be underground, as well as the height above the water the dock needs to be. The pilings should be 1' wide, and they should be placed every 7-10' (the distance is measured from the center of one piling to the center of the next piling). Also, the pilings should reach around 8-10' under the ground. The distance from the water to the dock should be at least 5'. As a team, we also planned a trip to the marina sometime next week, and developed a list of questions for the harbor office as well as a list of things we need to look at, measure, and/or photograph.
12-16-09
For the past few classes I have been working on various drawings on AutoCAD. These drawings include a site plan of the marina, a cross section/orthographic of the dock and the pilings, and an isometric of a section of dock. These drawings will include labels, dimensions, and additional notes.
12-23-09
For the past few classes, I have been working on my developmental work. I have been making a materials list and finding out the exact amount I would need for each material. I have also finalized my site plan, cross section/orthographic top, front, and side view of the dock, and isometric of the dock, including dimensions and shading.
1-6-10
During the past several classes, I have completed my first draft of my developmental work. I have received corrections and additional drawings that need to be done, such as a section of the floating breakwater, a drawing of how the oil booms attach, and placing labels and section lines on my site plan. I have also been completing my math and science report. I have been calculating the amount of pilings, surface area, and the amount of oil the booms can hold. I have also been researching tides, erosion, and how the booms actually work for the science portion of the report.
1-8-10
I have now completed my math and science report, and am now working on fixing my developmental work, as well as preparing for next week's presentations. I am labeling my site plan, working on fixing the isometric view details, changing parts of the orthographic view, and creating additional drawings. The additional drawings that are needed are a section view of the floating breakwater, and views of how the oil booms will be attached and what they will be attached to. An outline for next week's presentation is also needed.
1-12-10
Today I am finalizing CAD drawings and preparing for marking period 2 presentations, which begin tomorrow. I am working on completing my outline, and clearing the computers so that they can be wiped out tomorrow.
1-22-10
The past few classes have included presentations, working on and completing my midterm project, and finishing up any developmental work that still needs to be fixed. The midterm was a formal paper that summarized all of the developmental work and testing procedures that have been completed for the project. I have added two drawings to my developmental work, and intend to add a third before resubmission. The two new drawings are sectional views of the breakwater, and how it attaches together, and to the ground. The final drawing that needs to be completed is a boom attachment drawing.
Today, I did research on floating breakwaters and had a discussion with Mrs. McDonald on the effects of floating breakwaters versus non-floating breakwaters on marinas and the marine environment. There was an issue with the fact that a floating breakwater would cause issues with sediment build-up and lots of dredging would be necessary in the marina. There was also discussion of how to set up a wave tank to test out the breakwater. However, after researching the whisprwave floating breakwaters, and showing the site to Mrs. McDonald, it was determined that further testing with a wave tank is not needed, and the floating breakwater can sufficiently prevent sediment build-up, as well as stop erosion.
11-13-09
Today I worked on modifying my orthographic AutoCAD drawing. I changed the length of the docks, as well as the width they are apart. I also changed the length of the pieces that stick out on the sides of the dock. The docks are now 500 feet long, except for the gas dock that is 600 feet long. Also, the docks are now 100 feet apart with the exception of the gas dock, which is 150 feet apart because it will hold the largest boats. I also started to add my oil absorbent booms into the drawing.
11-17-09
Today we had a team meeting, where we reviewed the Green Marina Guidebook in preparation of Mr. Danko's visit in two days. The point of reviewing the guidebook was to look at the material again since it has been a while since we last looked at it, and we now understand a great deal more about the project that we didn't understand when we first read the guide. The second reading of the guide made a lot more sense. We made sure we were familiar with all of the different areas in the guidebook and formulated questions concerning our projects to ask Mr. Danko. Some of the questions include where we should place the oil absorbent booms in the water to get the most efficient use out of them. After the team meeting, I worked on my calendar for this marking period.
11-24-09
Today I worked on scaling our final model, and started research for the bid process report. We discussed what materials would be needed to make a final model, and places where we could purchase them. The scale for the final product was determined to be 1" equals 50'. Also, for a real life product, I chose to research the oil absorbent booms.
12-3-09
For the past few days I have been working on completing my orthographic view of the marina by deciding on final sizes for everything and dimensioning the entire drawing. I have also been working on my bid process report. We have researched various types of supplies to build our final model, and calculated the amount we would need of each product for our final model. We had first decided on using magic water in our model for the water portion, which is a product that pours and hardens on your model and has the appearance of water. However, we miscalculated the amount of this product we would need, and soon realized we would need at least $400 worth of magic water. So we are currently looking for an alternate solution to the magic water. I will be using balsa wood to construct my model docks.
12-9-09
A few days ago our team had a meeting with Mr. Danko in order to go over our specifications/limitations, as well as have him review our individual designs. We also asked him some questions about bulkheads, dock height, and how deep pilings go into the ground. We learned how a bulkhead attaches, and we received some tide information. The docks should be at least 5 feet above the water height. Mr. Danko and his assistant strongly recommended cutting down on the amount of oil booms that are used because the booms are expensive and not even necessary everywhere. He recommended placing them only in areas where there is a great deal of oil leaking, and so I moved my booms to nearby the gas dock as well as by the ramp. He also recommended placing an oil spill control kit on every dock, as well as setting up a requirement for the marina that every boat must have a boom attached to it if an owner wants to place it in that specific marina. Mr. Danko also recommended that KK move his lift to a different area, which will affect my docks. One of the docks will have to be moved at a later date, once KK figures out the location of the lift, and the amount of space it will take up.
12-11-09
Today I worked on the orthographic drawing of my dock structures, creating a top, front, and side view. I know now how deep the pilings need to be underground, as well as the height above the water the dock needs to be. The pilings should be 1' wide, and they should be placed every 7-10' (the distance is measured from the center of one piling to the center of the next piling). Also, the pilings should reach around 8-10' under the ground. The distance from the water to the dock should be at least 5'. As a team, we also planned a trip to the marina sometime next week, and developed a list of questions for the harbor office as well as a list of things we need to look at, measure, and/or photograph.
12-16-09
For the past few classes I have been working on various drawings on AutoCAD. These drawings include a site plan of the marina, a cross section/orthographic of the dock and the pilings, and an isometric of a section of dock. These drawings will include labels, dimensions, and additional notes.
12-23-09
For the past few classes, I have been working on my developmental work. I have been making a materials list and finding out the exact amount I would need for each material. I have also finalized my site plan, cross section/orthographic top, front, and side view of the dock, and isometric of the dock, including dimensions and shading.
1-6-10
During the past several classes, I have completed my first draft of my developmental work. I have received corrections and additional drawings that need to be done, such as a section of the floating breakwater, a drawing of how the oil booms attach, and placing labels and section lines on my site plan. I have also been completing my math and science report. I have been calculating the amount of pilings, surface area, and the amount of oil the booms can hold. I have also been researching tides, erosion, and how the booms actually work for the science portion of the report.
1-8-10
I have now completed my math and science report, and am now working on fixing my developmental work, as well as preparing for next week's presentations. I am labeling my site plan, working on fixing the isometric view details, changing parts of the orthographic view, and creating additional drawings. The additional drawings that are needed are a section view of the floating breakwater, and views of how the oil booms will be attached and what they will be attached to. An outline for next week's presentation is also needed.
1-12-10
Today I am finalizing CAD drawings and preparing for marking period 2 presentations, which begin tomorrow. I am working on completing my outline, and clearing the computers so that they can be wiped out tomorrow.
1-22-10
The past few classes have included presentations, working on and completing my midterm project, and finishing up any developmental work that still needs to be fixed. The midterm was a formal paper that summarized all of the developmental work and testing procedures that have been completed for the project. I have added two drawings to my developmental work, and intend to add a third before resubmission. The two new drawings are sectional views of the breakwater, and how it attaches together, and to the ground. The final drawing that needs to be completed is a boom attachment drawing.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Selection/Rejection
The basic changes between the three alternate solutions are in the shape and appearance of the docks rather than the function. The three final solutions all have the same environmentally friendly aspects to them, having an absorbable material covering the gas dock to absorb any spills that may occur as well as being built all from the same materials. The absorbable material would be an oil-absorbing polymer that acts as a type of sponge for oil. Because it is more durable, and lasts longer, the marina’s docks will be built out of fiberglass. All the final solutions are organized so that commercial boats are on one side of the marina (because they are the larger boats) and the privately owned boats are on the other side of the marina. Basically, all the boats in the marina are organized by size. My partner, KK, placed the ramp dead center, and so all the designs follow this requirement.
The first solution begins with the fishing pier all the way to the left of the marina. Then, there are three T shaped docks, followed by the ramp, and two smaller, floating docks to allow boats to be loaded once they are put into the water from the ramp. Then there are three more T shaped docks, and one longer T shaped dock that contains the gas station at the end of it. The second solution begins with the gas station pier all the way on the far left. Then there is an L shaped pier, two T shaped piers with wings in the center, and another L shaped dock. This is followed by the ramp, and another L shaped dock. Then there are two more T shaped piers with wings in the center, and another L shaped dock. On the far right of the marina is a long fishing pier with an angled dock coming off at the tip. The third solution begins with the fishing pier with an angled dock on the far left. This is followed by an L shaped dock, two T shaped docks, and another L shaped dock, all with wings on the side. Next to this is the ramp, and another an L shaped dock, two T shaped docks, and another L shaped dock with wings on the side.
The first alternate solution holds the most amount of boats out of the three possible solutions. Assuming each regular sized dock can hold 50 boats, and the longer dock can hold around 55 boats, this marina would have around 445 slips. With the gas dock closest to the entrance to the bay, this creates a more logical traffic pattern, because boats can get gas on their way in and out of the marina, instead of having to sail all the way to the opposite side of the marina to get gas before leaving the marina. Because access is needed to the boats put in the water using the ramp, two extra docks were needed for loading and unloading. This requires more materials to be used. This solution includes oil absorbent booms located by the floating breakwater and next to the fishing docks. The booms absorb oil and gas and repel water, allowing them to float. They are white in color, and turn to a brown/black color when they need to be changed. The booms will still float even while saturated. They are constructed with polypropylene. The booms used are 8” in diameter by 20’ long each. Each boom can absorb 24 gallons.
The second alternate solution holds fewer than the first solution does. Assuming each regular sized dock can hold 45 boats, and the longer dock can hold around 50 boats, this marina would have around 410 slips. The wings on the sides of the docks allow different sized boats to be grouped together. With the gas dock furthest from the entrance to the bay, this creates an illogical traffic pattern. When people need gas for their boats, they must sail all the way to the far left side of the marina, and then sail to the complete opposite side of the marina to enter the bay. This creates more boat traffic that could otherwise be avoided with another design.
The third alternate solution holds the same amount of boats as solution 2 does. Assuming each regular sized dock can hold 45 boats, and the longer dock can hold around 50 boats, this marina would have around 410 slips. As stated in the description of the first alternate solution, placing the gas dock closest to the entrance to the bay creates a more logical traffic pattern, because boats can get gas on their way in and out of the marina, instead of having to sail all the way to the opposite side of the marina to get gas before leaving the marina. The wings on the sides of the docks allow different sized boats to be grouped together. This solution uses a combination of the oil absorbent booms used in solution 1 and the oil-eating bacteria used in solution 2. The oil absorbent booms are placed at the floating breakwater, by the fishing pier, and by the gas pier. These places are chosen because they assure that the booms will not get in the way of traffic or where boats need to be parked.
The solution chosen was the third solution because it received the highest score, which was a 48 on the design matrix. It is able to fit the most boats without wasting space. The boat traffic pattern makes sense, and it includes environmentally friendly materials and aspects. The design allows boats of different sizes to be grouped together.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Brainstorming
Materials: Most marina docks are constructed from wood. Wood is one of the cheaper ways to build a dock. However, the wood must be replaced as it rots away, and it costs money to replace them. Although wooden docks are cheaper to install, the costs in repairs will soon add up. Therefore, it is more beneficial for the environment, as well more cost efficient to find another material that is longer lasting. This is a waste of materials, and therefore not beneficial to the environment. Fiberglass docks can be a good material for building docks. Fiberglass docks are tough and durable and are said to last around 50 years in marine environments. Oil absorbent booms, as pictured below, will soak up any floating gasoline in the water.
Dock Types: There are three basic dock shapes that can be used. There is a T shape, L shape, and shape. Also, you can add docks sticking out from different parts of the regular docks to get different variations of those 3 shapes. The marina currently is made up of several different shaped piers. They range from T shaped to piers that come out at an angle. Also, the docks can either be floating, or rooted to the ground. A combination of these two would be better because the main docks should be rooted to the ground, while smaller docks, which are closer to the waterline, should be floating so that they do not flood when the tide rises.
Harbor Protection From Bay: The Atlantic Highlands Marina currently has a breakwater in order to protect the marina from waves and rough tides in the bay. However, breakwaters are not very environmentally friendly, and therefore should be replaced with a different system. Breakwaters lead to erosion, and so they do not make a marina green. A replacement for a breakwater would be a floating wave break. It performs the same task a breakwater does, except for the fact that it floats and therefore does not cause erosion since there is nothing rooted to the ground.
Brainstorming Sketches:
Dock Types: There are three basic dock shapes that can be used. There is a T shape, L shape, and shape. Also, you can add docks sticking out from different parts of the regular docks to get different variations of those 3 shapes. The marina currently is made up of several different shaped piers. They range from T shaped to piers that come out at an angle. Also, the docks can either be floating, or rooted to the ground. A combination of these two would be better because the main docks should be rooted to the ground, while smaller docks, which are closer to the waterline, should be floating so that they do not flood when the tide rises.
Harbor Protection From Bay: The Atlantic Highlands Marina currently has a breakwater in order to protect the marina from waves and rough tides in the bay. However, breakwaters are not very environmentally friendly, and therefore should be replaced with a different system. Breakwaters lead to erosion, and so they do not make a marina green. A replacement for a breakwater would be a floating wave break. It performs the same task a breakwater does, except for the fact that it floats and therefore does not cause erosion since there is nothing rooted to the ground.
Brainstorming Sketches:
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Design Brief
Individual Design Brief:
To plan and design a green marina for Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716, as a structural engineer, from the waterline out including the design the docks for commercial and recreational boats, inclusion of energy sources for the boats, and coastal structures such as bulkheads, breakwaters, and groins. The design must align with the civil engineering site plan of the marina and must be designed using the current perimeter of the Atlantic Highlands Marina. Produce a scaled model as a visual representation of this design.
Team Design Brief:
To plan and design a green marina for Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716 for year-round use by the citizens of Atlantic Highlands. Produce a scaled model as a visual representation of this design.
To plan and design a green marina for Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716 for year-round use by the citizens of Atlantic Highlands. Produce a scaled model as a visual representation of this design.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Summer Research
There are many different solutions to make a marina environmentally friendly. These solutions can be seen by observing other Green Marinas to see what steps they have taken in order to improve their marinas. Various solutions other Green Marinas have used are listed below:
The first issue that was pollutes marinas is runoff water/pollution entering the water from the parking lot. One solution could be to move the parking lot further away from the water. Another possible solution is to have a drain going across the ramp leading into the water. That way, runoff water and some other small objects would fall into the drain instead of flowing into the water itself.
Another issue considered is where the boat storage equipment is stored. Currently in the Atlantic Highlands Marina, the extra equipment that holds the boats up and in storage is left outside close to the water. The equipment has become rusty and the paint is peeling off of it because it is left outside. A shed to keep this equipment could be built in order to keep it in better condition and to keep the rust and peeling paint from blowing into the water and causing pollution.
A third issue is the fact that the on-land gas pumps at the Atlantic Highlands Marina were so close to the water. The fact that the fuel pumps were so close to the water worried me because it could lead to serious pollution if there was a spill of some sort. The gas pumps would need to be moved further away from the water. The dock gas pumps could be placed on top of a material that absorbs oil and gas, so that if there is a small leak or spill, the material would be able to absorb the oil/gas instead of letting it flow into the ocean. When the material becomes completely saturated or outdated, it would need to be properly disposed of and replaced with new material. For the docking system, the docks should be organized so that commercial boats such as party boats would be on one side of the marina, and the private boats as well as the fishing pier would be on the other end. Many current green marinas minimize the usage of hazardous materials. They use only environmentally friendly materials to construct the marina, such as long lasting docks that do not need to be replaced as often as a wooden dock does.
Runoff is a major contributor in polluting marinas. Plant vegetation in and around parking lots in order to absorb storm water. These plants that are placed in parking lots are known as “green barriers” and are often used in green marinas. These green barriers not only stop runoff, but also are aesthetically pleasing. Make sure all draining systems for roofs lead to soil and not concrete or asphalt so that the soil will absorb water and not lead to runoff into the marina’s water. Keep all equipment in the marina current and working properly. For example, while visiting the site I noticed that some rinsing stations had leaking pipes and water was pouring all over the parking lot nearby the ramp. This was causing a ton of runoff water to build up.
Many issues in marinas that cause pollution can simply be solved through organization. For example, moving dumpsters, rusty equipment, and open garbage cans away from the water can stop some debris from entering water. Placing signs everywhere stating littering laws/rules and marina regulations can also help enforce laws and prevent some pollution. Setting up recycling stations and having proper disposal containers for certain chemicals or wastes can also prevent dumping and pollution. Setting fees and fines and actually enforcing them for those who do not obey the rules can encourage people not to pollute the water. It is also necessary to enforce these laws, because then people are more likely to obey them.
The Atlantic Highlands Marina currently has wooden docks. The issue with wooden docks is that they do need to be replaced often as the wood rots away. This is a waste of materials, and therefore not beneficial to the environment. Fiberglass docks can be a good material for building docks. Fiberglass docks are tough and durable and are said to last around 50 years in marine
The Atlantic Highlands Marina currently has a breakwater in order to protect the marina from waves and rough tides in the bay. However, breakwaters are not very environmentally friendly, and therefore should be replaced with a different system. Breakwaters lead to erosion, and so they do not make a marina green.
Over the summer, my partner and I visited the Atlantic Highlands Marina in order to take pictures of the site and view all of the vital parts of the Marina. We noted not only the layout of the Marina, but also the location of important things such as trash cans, electrical outlets, gas pumps, parking lots, the fishing pier, boat repair areas, boat storage, benches, flag poles, fire hydrants, offices, street lights, bike parking, handicap parking, soda machines, bulletin boards, and various signs stating rules and regulations. Also, after visiting the site, we realized several building we would need to take into account that are located at this specific site. There is the Shore Casino, Sissy’s restaurant, the bait shop, the security station, the marina office, the restrooms, a playground, tennis courts, a basketball court, a senior center, and a trail to take into consideration, besides the marina itself.
After having a discussion with Carol Cassese from the Atlantic Highlands Marina Office, I was informed that the marina has 400 slips, and around 140-150 moorings. She also stated that the marina was first opened in the 1940’s. The marina is protected from the bay by a breakwater and currently consists of ten piers. One of the piers is a fishing pier, and one of the piers has access to the ferry at the very end. The commercial boats are located at one side of the marina, while the privately owned boats and the fishing pier are located at the complete opposite side. The marina currently is made up of several different shaped piers. They range from T shaped to piers that come out at an angle. The pier with ferry access is almost twice as long as the other piers. The marina has several parking lots, including a commuter’s lot and a regular lot. Parts of the marina’s docks are actually rooted to the ground, while other parts are floating docks.
Works Consulted
Dura Composites. “Marina Deck.” http://www.marinadeck.co.uk/
The Green Blue. “Green Blue Guide To Designing A Green Marina.”
http://www.thegreenblue.org.uk/publications/documents/BestPracticeGreenMarina.doc
Green Marina Initiative. “Green Marina Guidebook.” http://www.interior.gov/greening/links/greenmarina.pdf
The first issue that was pollutes marinas is runoff water/pollution entering the water from the parking lot. One solution could be to move the parking lot further away from the water. Another possible solution is to have a drain going across the ramp leading into the water. That way, runoff water and some other small objects would fall into the drain instead of flowing into the water itself.
Another issue considered is where the boat storage equipment is stored. Currently in the Atlantic Highlands Marina, the extra equipment that holds the boats up and in storage is left outside close to the water. The equipment has become rusty and the paint is peeling off of it because it is left outside. A shed to keep this equipment could be built in order to keep it in better condition and to keep the rust and peeling paint from blowing into the water and causing pollution.
A third issue is the fact that the on-land gas pumps at the Atlantic Highlands Marina were so close to the water. The fact that the fuel pumps were so close to the water worried me because it could lead to serious pollution if there was a spill of some sort. The gas pumps would need to be moved further away from the water. The dock gas pumps could be placed on top of a material that absorbs oil and gas, so that if there is a small leak or spill, the material would be able to absorb the oil/gas instead of letting it flow into the ocean. When the material becomes completely saturated or outdated, it would need to be properly disposed of and replaced with new material. For the docking system, the docks should be organized so that commercial boats such as party boats would be on one side of the marina, and the private boats as well as the fishing pier would be on the other end. Many current green marinas minimize the usage of hazardous materials. They use only environmentally friendly materials to construct the marina, such as long lasting docks that do not need to be replaced as often as a wooden dock does.
Runoff is a major contributor in polluting marinas. Plant vegetation in and around parking lots in order to absorb storm water. These plants that are placed in parking lots are known as “green barriers” and are often used in green marinas. These green barriers not only stop runoff, but also are aesthetically pleasing. Make sure all draining systems for roofs lead to soil and not concrete or asphalt so that the soil will absorb water and not lead to runoff into the marina’s water. Keep all equipment in the marina current and working properly. For example, while visiting the site I noticed that some rinsing stations had leaking pipes and water was pouring all over the parking lot nearby the ramp. This was causing a ton of runoff water to build up.
Many issues in marinas that cause pollution can simply be solved through organization. For example, moving dumpsters, rusty equipment, and open garbage cans away from the water can stop some debris from entering water. Placing signs everywhere stating littering laws/rules and marina regulations can also help enforce laws and prevent some pollution. Setting up recycling stations and having proper disposal containers for certain chemicals or wastes can also prevent dumping and pollution. Setting fees and fines and actually enforcing them for those who do not obey the rules can encourage people not to pollute the water. It is also necessary to enforce these laws, because then people are more likely to obey them.
The Atlantic Highlands Marina currently has wooden docks. The issue with wooden docks is that they do need to be replaced often as the wood rots away. This is a waste of materials, and therefore not beneficial to the environment. Fiberglass docks can be a good material for building docks. Fiberglass docks are tough and durable and are said to last around 50 years in marine
The Atlantic Highlands Marina currently has a breakwater in order to protect the marina from waves and rough tides in the bay. However, breakwaters are not very environmentally friendly, and therefore should be replaced with a different system. Breakwaters lead to erosion, and so they do not make a marina green.
Over the summer, my partner and I visited the Atlantic Highlands Marina in order to take pictures of the site and view all of the vital parts of the Marina. We noted not only the layout of the Marina, but also the location of important things such as trash cans, electrical outlets, gas pumps, parking lots, the fishing pier, boat repair areas, boat storage, benches, flag poles, fire hydrants, offices, street lights, bike parking, handicap parking, soda machines, bulletin boards, and various signs stating rules and regulations. Also, after visiting the site, we realized several building we would need to take into account that are located at this specific site. There is the Shore Casino, Sissy’s restaurant, the bait shop, the security station, the marina office, the restrooms, a playground, tennis courts, a basketball court, a senior center, and a trail to take into consideration, besides the marina itself.
After having a discussion with Carol Cassese from the Atlantic Highlands Marina Office, I was informed that the marina has 400 slips, and around 140-150 moorings. She also stated that the marina was first opened in the 1940’s. The marina is protected from the bay by a breakwater and currently consists of ten piers. One of the piers is a fishing pier, and one of the piers has access to the ferry at the very end. The commercial boats are located at one side of the marina, while the privately owned boats and the fishing pier are located at the complete opposite side. The marina currently is made up of several different shaped piers. They range from T shaped to piers that come out at an angle. The pier with ferry access is almost twice as long as the other piers. The marina has several parking lots, including a commuter’s lot and a regular lot. Parts of the marina’s docks are actually rooted to the ground, while other parts are floating docks.
Works Consulted
Dura Composites. “Marina Deck.” http://www.marinadeck.co.uk/
The Green Blue. “Green Blue Guide To Designing A Green Marina.”
http://www.thegreenblue.org.uk/publications/documents/BestPracticeGreenMarina.doc
Green Marina Initiative. “Green Marina Guidebook.” http://www.interior.gov/greening/links/greenmarina.pdf
Testing
The final solution of the Green Marina should fit the design brief and follow all specifications and limitations set for the project. An environmentally friendly marina should be produced on the site where the Atlantic Highlands Marina currently exists. Rather than testing out the actual model itself, which would be pointless, the concept will be tested. The most logical way to test out the design is to ask an expert involved with green marinas to come evaluate the final solution and final product.
Exploratory tests: The exploratory test for this project can take place throughout the brainstorming process. The designs should all be thought through and basic design questions should be thought through. The marina layouts should all be logical and have working designs.
Assessment tests: Once a final solution has been chosen, assessment tests should take place to decide if the final chosen solution is a viable one. Design matrices can be used to help conduct assessment tests.
Validation tests: The final marina solution should go through validation tests in order to make sure the design fulfills the design brief and adheres to all of the specifications and limitations listed for the project. The chosen solution should also match up to the partner's solution.
Comparison tests: Comparison tests can be conducted at the completion of the Green Marina project. Having an expert in green marinas evaluate our designs and compare them to current and effective green marinas can complete the comparison tests. Creating a survey for a specialist in green marinas to fill out will help them grade the effectiveness of the design easier.
Testing Procedures:
A structural engineer will be called in to review BT (myself) and JB's portions of the project, because we are both structural engineers and developed two separate solutions to fit with KK's solution for the land. The structural engineer would review the effectiveness of the docking system along with how structurally safe/effective the docks themselves are. They would review everything in the marina design from the waterline out. An environmental specialist or engineer could be called in to review how environmentally safe and friendly the design is. They would look at things such as how power is generated, where waste is disposed of, where runoff water goes, and many other details involved with the marina.
1. Set up a meeting with a specialist who is familiar with green marinas. For example, Mr. Danko could be used to review the final project.
2. Have a checklist or survey prepared for the specialist so that they can review the list and know what criteria they need to grade the design off of. Make sure to list the specifications of the project on the survey, so they know what needed to be accomplished with this project.
3. Give the specialist a presentation on the project as a whole. Tell them the overview of the project, and include the design brief, specifications, and limitations. Also include an overview of the design process, selection/rejection, and how you developed the design to make it the final solution it is in the end.
4. Using the model built and any drawings made, explain the marina design and how it works. Make sure to include the various parts of the marina that make it environmentally friendly and "green." Explain traffic flow, how the docks are structured, materials, etc. Thoroughly explain every part of the design.
5. Ask if the specialist has any questions concerning the design or how it works. Make sure they completely understand the the project, as well as your solution.
6. Give the specialist the prepared survey/checklist so they can review and critique the design. Leave room for them to comment about what they think about the project and how you did as a whole, or for any comments they feel like leaving.
7. The marina design should be graded for how effectively it works and functions as a marina, as well as how environmentally friendly it is.
8. Compare the two final solutions for the structural portion of the project to see which is more environmentally friendly.
Survey:
The purpose of this survey is to review and comment on the structural engineering portion of the Green Marina Project.
Is the marina constructed from environmentally friendly materials?
Are there prevention methods taken in areas where there is a high amount of pollution?
Do the docks fit an appropriate amount of boats?
Do the docks accommodate different sized boats?
Is the boat traffic pattern of the marina logical?
Are all necessary parts of a marina included in the design?
Does the design follow all New Jersey rules and regulations concerning marinas?
How effective is the solution for the issue of erosion?
How effective is the solution for the issue of petroleum leakage?
What aspects of the marina are the most logical? Which parts of the marina do not make sense/need improvement?
How is the marina protected from the bay? How effective is that means of protection?
Rate the marina on how environmentally friendly it is on a scale of 1 to 10, and explain reasoning:
Does the model accurately depict the marina design?
Do the drawings accurately depict the marina design?
Exploratory tests: The exploratory test for this project can take place throughout the brainstorming process. The designs should all be thought through and basic design questions should be thought through. The marina layouts should all be logical and have working designs.
Assessment tests: Once a final solution has been chosen, assessment tests should take place to decide if the final chosen solution is a viable one. Design matrices can be used to help conduct assessment tests.
Validation tests: The final marina solution should go through validation tests in order to make sure the design fulfills the design brief and adheres to all of the specifications and limitations listed for the project. The chosen solution should also match up to the partner's solution.
Comparison tests: Comparison tests can be conducted at the completion of the Green Marina project. Having an expert in green marinas evaluate our designs and compare them to current and effective green marinas can complete the comparison tests. Creating a survey for a specialist in green marinas to fill out will help them grade the effectiveness of the design easier.
Testing Procedures:
A structural engineer will be called in to review BT (myself) and JB's portions of the project, because we are both structural engineers and developed two separate solutions to fit with KK's solution for the land. The structural engineer would review the effectiveness of the docking system along with how structurally safe/effective the docks themselves are. They would review everything in the marina design from the waterline out. An environmental specialist or engineer could be called in to review how environmentally safe and friendly the design is. They would look at things such as how power is generated, where waste is disposed of, where runoff water goes, and many other details involved with the marina.
1. Set up a meeting with a specialist who is familiar with green marinas. For example, Mr. Danko could be used to review the final project.
2. Have a checklist or survey prepared for the specialist so that they can review the list and know what criteria they need to grade the design off of. Make sure to list the specifications of the project on the survey, so they know what needed to be accomplished with this project.
3. Give the specialist a presentation on the project as a whole. Tell them the overview of the project, and include the design brief, specifications, and limitations. Also include an overview of the design process, selection/rejection, and how you developed the design to make it the final solution it is in the end.
4. Using the model built and any drawings made, explain the marina design and how it works. Make sure to include the various parts of the marina that make it environmentally friendly and "green." Explain traffic flow, how the docks are structured, materials, etc. Thoroughly explain every part of the design.
5. Ask if the specialist has any questions concerning the design or how it works. Make sure they completely understand the the project, as well as your solution.
6. Give the specialist the prepared survey/checklist so they can review and critique the design. Leave room for them to comment about what they think about the project and how you did as a whole, or for any comments they feel like leaving.
7. The marina design should be graded for how effectively it works and functions as a marina, as well as how environmentally friendly it is.
8. Compare the two final solutions for the structural portion of the project to see which is more environmentally friendly.
Survey:
The purpose of this survey is to review and comment on the structural engineering portion of the Green Marina Project.
Is the marina constructed from environmentally friendly materials?
Are there prevention methods taken in areas where there is a high amount of pollution?
Do the docks fit an appropriate amount of boats?
Do the docks accommodate different sized boats?
Is the boat traffic pattern of the marina logical?
Are all necessary parts of a marina included in the design?
Does the design follow all New Jersey rules and regulations concerning marinas?
How effective is the solution for the issue of erosion?
How effective is the solution for the issue of petroleum leakage?
What aspects of the marina are the most logical? Which parts of the marina do not make sense/need improvement?
How is the marina protected from the bay? How effective is that means of protection?
Rate the marina on how environmentally friendly it is on a scale of 1 to 10, and explain reasoning:
Does the model accurately depict the marina design?
Do the drawings accurately depict the marina design?
Specifications & Limitations
Specifications:
-The design must provide all facilities and services to those who use the harbor
-The design must provide adequate parking for all harbor facilities
-The design must accommodate boats on land
-The design must contain an attractive entrance
-The design must plant two trees for ever tree removed
-The design must maximize water conservation
-The design must minimize water pollution in the form of water run-off and oil spillage
-The design must contain vegetation
-The design must minimize the use of impervious materials and buildings
-The design must include adequate lighting and drainage
-The design must prevent erosion
-The design must absorb any gasoline leaked into the water
-The design must provide slips for 400 boats
-The design must accommodate boats up to 90 feet long
-The design must provide freshwater access
-The design must provide a full service fuel dock with a sanitary pump-out station
-The design must provide an 88 ton travel lift and yard
-The design must provide bulkhead and retaining walls
-The design must minimize the need for and impact of dredging
-The design must use stationary docking
-The design must minimize water and land pollution
-The design must provide protection from incoming waves
Limitations:
-The design must adhere to Green Marina compliances
-The design must not extend beyond the current perimeter of the harbor
-The design must not remove facilities unless the facilities are being replaced by more eco-friendly versions
-The design must separate roads from parking areas
-The design must not contain more than 40% impervious areas
-The design must avoid the intersection of roads
-The design must minimize the disturbance of the existing site
-The design must adhere to Atlantic Highlands and New Jersey restrictions and regulations
-The design must prevent the introduction of pollutants into the bay
-The design must use renewable energy in the form of wind turbines and solar panels
-The design must be built using long-lasting, environmentally friendly materials
-The design must provide all facilities and services to those who use the harbor
-The design must provide adequate parking for all harbor facilities
-The design must accommodate boats on land
-The design must contain an attractive entrance
-The design must plant two trees for ever tree removed
-The design must maximize water conservation
-The design must minimize water pollution in the form of water run-off and oil spillage
-The design must contain vegetation
-The design must minimize the use of impervious materials and buildings
-The design must include adequate lighting and drainage
-The design must prevent erosion
-The design must absorb any gasoline leaked into the water
-The design must provide slips for 400 boats
-The design must accommodate boats up to 90 feet long
-The design must provide freshwater access
-The design must provide a full service fuel dock with a sanitary pump-out station
-The design must provide an 88 ton travel lift and yard
-The design must provide bulkhead and retaining walls
-The design must minimize the need for and impact of dredging
-The design must use stationary docking
-The design must minimize water and land pollution
-The design must provide protection from incoming waves
Limitations:
-The design must adhere to Green Marina compliances
-The design must not extend beyond the current perimeter of the harbor
-The design must not remove facilities unless the facilities are being replaced by more eco-friendly versions
-The design must separate roads from parking areas
-The design must not contain more than 40% impervious areas
-The design must avoid the intersection of roads
-The design must minimize the disturbance of the existing site
-The design must adhere to Atlantic Highlands and New Jersey restrictions and regulations
-The design must prevent the introduction of pollutants into the bay
-The design must use renewable energy in the form of wind turbines and solar panels
-The design must be built using long-lasting, environmentally friendly materials
Background Information
Marinas are necessary for storing boats during all seasons, but are used to clean and fix them as well. A major concern with marinas today is the pollution that occurs in them. Turning our world “green” is a concept that is being adopted in many areas of society today, marinas included. Many problems in marinas today cause pollution and are in need of solutions. Some of these problems include runoff, chemicals, erosion, and many others.Pollution is dangerous for creatures that live in the water as well as people and the environment. Gasoline leaking into the water as well as debris floating around are extremely harmful. On my very first trip to the site, one of the first things I noticed was the amount of trash floating in the water. By the ramp, I noticed a Coca Cola box and a few plastic bottles floating in the water (pictured below).
Some of the areas that would need to be looked at in order to make a marina “green” are:
-Vessel maintenance/repair
-Petroleum storage/transfer
-Sewage disposal
-Hazardous/non-hazardous wastes
-Storm water runoff
-Facilities management
The areas pertaining to the dock and water portion of the marina would be petroleum storage and transfer, sewage disposal, and hazardous/non-hazardous wastes.
In many current marinas, there can be many changes to these areas to not only make the marina greener, but also more cost efficient. New layouts, devices, docks, systems, designs, or supplies can help create a greener atmosphere for a marina. Marinas are made to be more "green" simply by constructing them out of environmentally friendly materials and out of materials that will last much longer. When materials do not need to be replaced as often, money is saved, and less resources are wasted.
Keeping the proper waste disposal containers at marinas is also a vital parting of keeping a marina "green." Specific areas are needed in order to assure that wastes end up in the proper disposal containers, instead of in the water or on the land. Also, green marinas have an efficient way to generate power without damaging the environment. This usually consists of solar panels and wind turbines. The marina does need some form of protection from the bay, because the rough waves are harmful to both the boats and the marina. Currently, a breakwater protects the marina from the bay, however breakwaters are not very environmentally friendly. They cause erosion and therefore damage the environment, and so a different solution is needed in order to make the marina "green."
Gas leaks are one of the major concerns in marinas. The gas from the gas docks will often leak into the water, therefore polluting the water. Many marinas use an absorbable material on the floor on the gas dock to absorb any leaks or spills that may occur. The material does need to be replaced every once and a while, or when a spill does occur. The material also needs to be disposed of properly when it is replaced. If it is not, the gas and oils in the materials will pollute the earth, causing even more environmental issues.
Litter found in the water at the Atlantic Highlands Marina at the ramp:
Spare boat storage equipment left out in the open at the marina covered in rust and peeling paint:
View of the marina:
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