OutdoorNebraska

32 Nebraska Game and Parks Commission • Floating The Good Life Ramp Approaches Ramping approaches to the launch area provide the greatest range of utilization for watercraft and user types. Conventional motorboat ramps are typically built at a 10 percent slope (1-foot elevation change in 10 feet) at the top and steepening to 14 percent (1-foot elevation change in 7 feet) in order to transfer boats off trailers. People portaging their watercraft can use this ramping gradient, in most cases. If an alternate route of a shallow slope can be built in addition to a trailer ramp, it will benefit users carrying their watercraft and gear. An ADA accessible route will require a slope that does not exceed 5 percent (1-foot elevation change in 20 feet). Widths of approaches for vehicles with trailers is recommended to be a minimum of 16 feet while a portaging route by foot can be as narrow as 6 feet. See Figure 8 for an example illustration of a Ramp Approach. Building a ramp-type approach to access the water has advantages to law enforcement, emergency responders, and natural resource agencies for trailered boat use even if the approach is not intended for public vehicular use. Incorporating removable or fold-down bollards at the top of the ramped approach can restrict vehicle use to emergency and service uses only. Coordinate with local law enforcement and emergency responders during the design process to address their preferences regarding having boat access provisions. Selecting materials to build the approach should be based on the impacts of the flowing waterway and the ability to clear sediment and maintain. Also consider providing adequate traction for vehicles and foot traffic to navigate a non-slip surface safely. Be mindful that users carrying watercraft and gear may have limited visibility or focus as to where they are placing their next footstep. Figure 8: Ramp Approach Constructed ramp approach and launches accommodate a wide range of watercrafts, including motorboats, paddlecrafts, such as canoes and kayaks, and float alternatives, such as inner tubes and livestock watering tanks. Ramps constructed at a width to accommodate vehicle access (recommended 16' minimum width) allow multiple groups to use it simultaneously. Removable bollards or gates near the top of the ramp can restrict public access, while allowing emergency vehicle access. Vehicle ramps should follow design standards available through Nebraska Game and Parks or other advisory CONCRETE RAMP material is shown for vehicle use and ease of clearing sediment with equipment. RAMPS extending to the river channel bottom provide stabilization and protection against scouring actions. CONCRETE PLANKS can be prefabricated and cabled together below water level. A ramp constructed at 14% SLOPE (1' elevation change over 7') accommodates a motorboat launch from trailer. DEADMAN ANCHORING of cabled prefabricated concrete planks is the alternative shown. sources. Ramp material should withstand anticipated frequency of vehicle use and allow the ability to clear sediment after a high river flow event without damage to the ramp. Consideration should be given to construction methods needed to successfully install ramp portions beneath water. Ramp approach and launches can be limiting to people with disabilities. If possible, an additional approach with a gentle slope can be provided to benefit more users. RAMP LAUNCH ALTERNATIVE

• Cover