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BEACH DUNE WALKOVER STRUCTURES
PURPOSE: To describe the use of beach dune walkover structures and present
a typical design of this type structure. This Technical Note is intended
to encourage the building of walkover structures in areas where dunes are
threatened by human traffic.
GENERAL: Numerous dune systems along the coast are undergoing destruction
due to the loss of vegetation caused by unrestricted access to the beach
over the dune systems. As the vegetation is lost, the wind becomes capable
of eroding the dune and causes a progressive deterioration of the entire
dune system. In areas of high foot traffic, a beach walkover structure may
be used to save this vegetation.
EXAMPLE: Figures 1 and 2 present typical design details of a structure for
use in areas of heavy foot traffic, as a community public access ramp. The
depths of pilings account for both depth necessary for structure stability,
and added depth to account for possible dune deflation and storm erosion
losses.
The designs are basic enough such that various alternatives can
be added to the designs without altering the structures to a great degree.
One such alteration would be a transverse extension of the deck section
with benches for people to sit on overlooking the beach area. The addi-
tion of properly spaced, skid resistant materials to the decking of the
ramp section of the large walkover structure would make the deck and the
deck extension accessible to handicapped people in wheelchairs. Additional
features which could also be added are limited only by the planner's
imagination.
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