The power loading issue that came up in Seabuddys thread
Your trailer-no touch, self load made me wonder what the difference in launch ramps from state to state would be. Not wanting to side track that thread any more than I already did I'm creating this to learn a little.
Quote:
At almost every "Michigan" Ramp, operators of the ramp facility have large signs in place advising that power loading is prohibited. This restriction is in place because of concerns for the long term preservation of the ramp. Because the "Michigan" Ramp tends to enter water with a gentle bottom slope, if boats were to power load the prop wash would displace the sand and gravel and build it into a mound a few feet behind the end of the ramp. Eventually a rather significant shoal will be created by repeated power loading. The shoal then becomes a hazard for boats near the ramp area, where the sudden reduction in depth can mean a dinged propeller to the fellow without local knowledge of this artificial reef. Power loading can also tend to create a deep pit right at the end of the ramp. This is a problem for ramp users (if their trailer wheels back beyond the end of the paved ramp and into this pit) and for maintainers of the ramp (as the end of the ramp slab begins to be undermined and may not be sufficiently supported). For these reasons, a "Michigan" Ramp generally prohibits power loading and warns of fines, etc.
As stated previously "most" DNR operated ramps have signs posted that prohibit powerloading due to the design of these ramps. In general, the majority of ramps that I've been to have concrete that extends into the water around 20-30 feet at most, depending on the body of water. Because we do not have major water table changes ( + or - 1 ft )at the ramps this is how it's done around Michigan. I pay $24 for a yearly sticker that gives me acces to sites through-out Michigan. Money from this is used to maintain and build additional sites. If everyone would help keep them in good condition, more money could be spent on new sites.
What construction methods do they use in your area?
Is powerloading the "norm"?
What type of ramp construction do you have?
Pictures would always be welcomed.
Curious minds would like to know............