PERMEABLE GROYNES: EXPERIMENTS AND PRACTICE IN THE NETHERLANDS

Abstract

This paper reports on model experiments and up to 20 years of practice in nature with a permeable groyne system, consisting of single or double permeable rows of wooden piles perpendicular to the beach, without bottom protection. This system costs only 10 to 25% of the impermeable stone groynes which have for centuries been used in the Netherlands. Model experiments confirm that wave-induced currents in the protected areas are reduced to 65%, and tidal currents even to 50%, depending on the pile screen configuration. Prototype measurements could not lead to straightforward conclusions with statistical significance: the effect of the pile screens on beach evolution is partly merged into natural fluctuations and trends. Wooden pile screens do not prevent the shoreward motion of tidal channels, which can cause washing out of piles. Furthermore, constructional failures, which in the future can be avoided, at some places resulted in negative experience. It is concluded that permeable pile screens deserve serious consideration as a first flexible and cheap phase in combating coastal erosion. Its application however should be based on a thorough analysis of the local coastal current climate.