Wave attenuation in federal navigation channels has become a pressing issue throughout the Great Lakes. Waves on the Great Lakes can reach heights of well over 20 feet in deep water and cause dangerous commercial navigation and recreational boating conditions. Additionally, erosion can be impacted putting private and public property in jeopardy. To remedy this situation, the Detroit District has begun installing wave absorber cells in some of their harbors.

• How Do They Work?
• Current Studies
• Wave Absorber Locations

Introduction to Great Lakes Wave Absorbers

Many Great Lakes harbor structures were originally built in the mid to late 1800's using stone filled timber cribs, but over the years weathering deteriorated them to point where repairs were necessary. The normal course of action has been to drive steel sheet pile on both sides of the deteriorating structure and pour a concrete cap over the top. Because steel sheet piling is a very reflective material, wave absorber cells were installed to dissipate wave energy traveling up the entrance channel.