34 Nebraska Game and Parks Commission • Floating The Good Life
Compacted Aggregate: Compacted aggregates may be a suitable and economical
material alternative where scouring due to water flow velocities and clean out of deposited
sediment is not expected to occur. In general, these conditions may be present within narrow,
shallow, braided or meandering rivers and should be confirmed by a qualified design engineer
professional before making the investment to proceed with compacted aggregates. Compacted
aggregates are not recommended for ramps frequently serving vehicular traffic, such as public
vehicle use, and should be reserved for emergency or service vehicles and foot traffic only.
Select compacted aggregate material ¾-inch to 1½-inch in size with angular surfaces that lock
together when compacted. Rounded aggregates and gravels do not lock together and will be
displaced easily by water flows and foot traffic. Like in parking areas, compacted aggregates
are an economical solution for initial construction; however, have a probability of frequent
maintenance costs to replenish as the material is progressively displaced.
Proprietary Matting Products: Continued advancements in products marketed to be
cost effective, low impact, surface materials excellent for constructing boat ramps emerge
frequently. The better products are ones that saw an issue in an existing product or process
and sought to solve that specific issue. Time that a product has been available on the market
and the number of installations in place to prove its durability will vary. This guide does not offer
recommendation for or against the use of new and emerging proprietary matting products.
Consideration of a new or lesser-proven product should be researched and be agreeable by
the project stakeholders for use to incorporate in the project. Require a representative of the
product manufacturer advice during the design process and be present during construction to
ensure the product is placed as intended and not void any warranties should the product fail.
WATER
TRAIL
ACCESS
AT
MULBERRY
BEND
WMA
