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This research highlights the need for a replacement of the failing slab tide gate system at the Cove River in West Haven, CT. It examines the issues presented by the current system, which, while facilitating some saltwater influx beneficial for controlling invasive phragmites, ultimately limits human management of the river's ecology. This study proposes a self-regulating tide gate system (SRT) as a more effective solution, promising improved tidal flow, stormwater regulation, and overall ecological restoration in the Cove River ecosystem.
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TheAdvantages of Self Regulating Tide Gates over a “Slab” Tide Gate System By Jesus Yanez Abstract Problem Statement At the Cove River West Haven, CT site, there is a failing “slab” tide gate system, similar to figure 1. Although failing, the tide gate has allowed sufficient salt water into the river that has aided in the eradication of the phragmites. However, this lessens human control of the river. The river still requires an increase in tidal flow and an increase in the rate of storm water flush. Therefore, a new tide gate system is needed and the decision of what kind of tide gate system is left. In this research proposition,a failing tide gate system in the Cove river in West Haven, CT is explored. The benefits of tide gates with respect to phragmites are explained and the problem with the tide gate system is exposed. Then a brand new proposition is made and discussed. Ultimately, a self regulating tide gate (SRT) is best for the Cove river. Introduction/Background Phragmites australisis an invasive species of reed that has decimated the local vegetation in the areas surrounding the Cove River and Old Field Creek. The phragmites deplete the areas of vital nutrients, displaces native animals and plants, and are potential fire hazards. However, by using herbicides and allowing salt water to flow into the Cove river, the phragmites are controlled. Tide Gates are mechanical systems that are used to control the flow of water into specified areas. Not only is the flow of water controlled, but so is the level of nutrients in the water, the marine population, and the growth of vegetation. There are many types of tide gates available, but all serve the same function: to control the flow of water. Proposition Figure 3: New Tide Gate Design Future Directions In the future, the new tide gate design can be implemented. Not only will it continue to destroy the phragmites population, but it will also improve the Cove river ecosystem. Furthermore, another research effort may be conducted to produce a cheaper version of the new tide gate design, as price was not a limiting factor in this proposition. Figure 2: ‘Slab” Tide gate system. http://stormy.msrc.sunysb.edu/link%20files/Hill%20et%20al%20Integrated%20Report%2004-29-04.pdf Proposition References Hill, Douglas. “East River Tide Gates Operational Feasibility and Trade-offs”. April 2004. June 8 2014. PDF. Phragmites: Questions and Answers. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. n.d. 2014. PDF. “Globe Research.” Message to the author. 30 May 2014. E-mail. Juel, Jeff. “Flap Gate/Tide Gate Alternatives”. Juel Tide Gates. May 2010. June 8 2014. PDF.. • The “slab” tide gate system should be replaced by a SRT system. To further improve the SRT system, the following can be added: • Add a vertical shaft to alleviate the pressure. • Use a pulley system to adjust the floating devices. • Figure 3 depicts a possible model for a new SRT that encompasses the previous improvements mentioned. Figure 1: Cove River
