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May 31, 2021

Boat Ramp Extension - Completed March 9th, 2021

Last winter the ramp edge was repaired using rip rap to fill washout caused by power loading and wave action by the ramp. Power loading is a term used to describe using the motor to load and unload the boat onto and off the trailer. Propeller wash creates a significant force that can erode the lakebed and create large holes at the end of the ramp. Eroded material is often deposited beyond the ramp to create a mound, which can result in a barrier for launching and loading. 

As we lowered the lake this year, it is evident that the rip-rap fill used last year was again displaced and we saw similar wash-out areas and holes beyond the concrete end of our ramp. DNR recommends repairing the holes and extending the ramps by adding additional concrete and where possible the mounds are leveled with excavation equipment. 

We consulted with many ramp-building experts including long-standing companies with extensive experience in building and repairing boat ramps as well as the DNR for their recommendation on best construction methods. We researched and consulted with experts about the appropriate length of the ramp to avoid constant wash out and to extend the time in months the ramp can be used into the off season. Currently, at summer pool, from water’s edge to the end of the concrete, the ramp length is 25’. By adding 20’ of additional concrete our ramp length will extend to 45’ and eliminate the annual maintenance of filling washout holes and provide a longer season for boaters to use the ramp. 

In making our final decision, we placed a high degree of importance on the ramp-building experience, and references of the contractor as well as total cost, material, construction process and concrete finish for best traction. 

The company we selected has extensive experience and expertise in building and repairing boat ramps at lakes such as Bischoff Reservoir and Norris Lake. The cost of the ramp repair will be no more than $17,467.75 (including tax, labor, lakebed diver survey, set slope, additional stone, materials). They will place and secure four concrete overlay panels 10’ X 17’ for a total length/width extension of 20’ by 34’. Upon completion, the final ramp length at summer pool will be 45’ at a width of 34’.

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