scope:

Deep-draft navigation projects involve development or improvement of channel systems to provide access to the Nation's ports and harbors. Deep-draft navigation refers to channel depths greater than 15 feet (ft) (4.57 meters (m)) and applies to commercial seagoing vessels and Great Lakes freighters. Generally, the project involves larger, more heavily laden ship traffic that takes advantage of the project improvements. The projects also include, where appropriate, ship turning basins, maneuvering areas, anchorage areas, and other ancillary facilities such as dikes and jetties to improve navigation conditions.

Purpose.

This manual provides design guidance for improving deep-draft navigation projects. The design goal applicable to project development is to provide a safe, efficient, environmentally sound, and cost-effective waterway for ships and other vessels. An economic objective is to provide for these goals while minimizing and balancing the initial construction costs and future maintenance costs. The general guidance presented in this manual is based on average navigation conditions and situations. The design engineer will adapt these guidelines to the local, site-specific conditions of the project. Usually, the final project design will be developed by application of a ship navigation study, incorporating real-time ship simulation tests with local professional pilots. Deviations from this guidance are acceptable if properly substantiated and approved by Headquarters, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Applicability.

This manual applies to all USACE commands having civil works responsibilities. The manual will be used in project planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance as applicable.